Simonelli Group and UNICAM Present “Science Driven Coffee Cup” Conference
- International scientific coffee conference in Italy on November 19-20, 2026.
- Brings together researchers, industry experts, and professionals from around the world.
- Fields include chemistry, biology, neuroscience, data science, and consumer research.
- Organized by RICH in partnership with the University of Camerino.
- Hosted at Simonelli Group Campus in Belforte del Chienti, Italy.
- Celebrates the 10th anniversary of RICH (2016-2026).
The Research & Innovation Coffee Hub (RICH) and the University of Camerino (UNICAM) have announced the first edition of Science Driven Coffee Cup. This is an international scientific conference dedicated to innovation and interdisciplinary research in the coffee sector.
The event will take place on November 19-20, 2026, at the Simonelli Group Campus in Belforte del Chienti, Italy. Registration and further information are available at the dedicated conference website.
A Platform for Dialogue Between Academia and Industry
Science Driven Coffee Cup has been designed as a platform for dialogue and collaboration among academia, research institutions, industry, and the wider coffee community. The conference will bring together researchers, professionals, companies, and experts from different countries to advance knowledge about coffee through an integrated scientific approach.
Fields including chemistry, biology, neuroscience, data science, and consumer research will provide complementary perspectives on challenges and opportunities across the coffee value chain, from raw materials to the consumer experience.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Science Driven Coffee Cup 2026 |
| Date | November 19-20, 2026 |
| Location | Simonelli Group Campus, Belforte del Chienti, Italy |
| Organizers | RICH and University of Camerino |
| Host | Simonelli Group |
| Disciplines | Chemistry, biology, neuroscience, data science, consumer research |
Building a Bridge Between Science and Industry
Marco Feliziani, CEO of Simonelli Group, said: “Technological development cannot exist without scientific research and the continuous growth of knowledge. This is why we have been collaborating for decades with universities and international research centers active in a variety of scientific fields. The performance of our technologies is the clearest proof of this commitment.”
Feliziani noted that Simonelli Group and the University of Camerino established RICH in 2016 to contribute directly to coffee research and create a bridge between academia and industry. “The objective of RICH is to generate new knowledge and expand the scientific understanding of coffee, creating value across the entire supply chain.”
He added: “Science Driven Coffee Cup is the result of this vision: sharing research outcomes, encouraging dialogue among experts, and continuing to build the future of coffee on a solid scientific foundation.”
University of Camerino Leadership
Graziano Leoni, Rector of the University of Camerino, said the partnership demonstrates how cooperation between universities and industry can turn research and knowledge into innovation and value. “The role of a university is not only to generate new knowledge, but also to create the conditions for that knowledge to be shared, transferred, and translated into opportunities for development.”
He added that this is one of the core missions of UNICAM, supported through investment and practical initiatives. Leoni also thanked the UNICAM researchers involved in RICH, describing their expertise and engagement with the business community as a driving force behind knowledge transfer and innovation.
RICH 10th Anniversary
The conference will also mark the 10th anniversary of the Research & Innovation Coffee Hub. Established in 2016 by Simonelli Group in partnership with the University of Camerino, RICH focuses on coffee research from a scientific and multidisciplinary perspective. Its work covers coffee and coffee-based products, milk and alternative beverages, with activities including scientific publications, educational initiatives, and participation in conferences internationally.
A Forum for the Coffee Research Community
In addition to scientific sessions, the Science Driven Coffee Cup program will include networking opportunities, presentations on developments in coffee science, and exchanges with international experts from the disciplines represented at the conference. The organizers aim for the event to become a significant meeting point for both the scientific and professional coffee communities.
About the Organizers
Simonelli Group is a manufacturer of professional espresso machines, grinders, and filter coffee machines. The company operates in more than 130 countries and exports more than 95% of its production. Its portfolio includes three brands: Nuova Simonelli, Victoria Arduino, and 3TEMP.
RICH was established in 2016 to investigate coffee from a scientific and multidisciplinary perspective and to disseminate knowledge to support the development of the coffee industry.
The University of Camerino, founded in 1336, offers programs through five schools covering architecture and design, biosciences and veterinary medicine, law, pharmaceutical and health product sciences, and science and technology. The university emphasizes academic excellence, teaching innovation, scientific research, technology transfer, public engagement, and collaboration with industry.
