Lecture Description
Coffee faces one of its greatest challenges in the management of fungal pathogens — particularly Hemileia vastatrix, the causal agent of coffee leaf rust. In recent years, nanotechnology has emerged as a promising frontier for sustainable crop protection. This session will explore how engineered nanomaterials — specifically silica-based nanoparticles functionalized with chitosan oligomers and copper ions — can activate defense pathways in coffee plants, enhance horizontal resistance, and potentially reduce the need for conventional agrochemicals.
Drawing from ongoing research and greenhouse trials with Coffea arabica varieties, we will discuss mechanisms of action, results from plant defense gene expression studies, and leaf disc infection assays evaluating disease progression. Participants will gain a clear understanding of the opportunities and limitations of applying nanotechnology in coffee agriculture, including scalability, safety, regulatory considerations, and practical adoption for smallholder farmers.
This presentation aims to bridge cutting-edge plant science and field application. It is designed for coffee producers, agronomists, sustainability leaders, and anyone interested in innovative, environmentally conscious solutions for the future of coffee farming.
Date: Friday, April 10, 2026
Time: 1:30 pm - 2:45 pm
Location: Room 23BC
Category: Business
Access: This lecture is free to attend with a World of Coffee entry badge. Register to attend World of Coffee here.
Please note that lecture sessions are open on a first-come, first-served basis. Early arrival is highly recommended to secure your seat.
Speakers
Arash Hassanian
CEO, Roastronix
Arash Hassanian is the founder of Roastronix, a coffee technology and services company focused on advancing innovation in specialty coffee roasting and operations. With a background in petroleum engineering, he brings an analytical and systems-oriented approach to coffee roasting technology, education, and supply chain development. Through Roastronix, he supports cafés, roasters, and producers by providing roasting equipment, consulting, training, and logistics solutions. Arash is also actively involved in industry initiatives and educational events that promote knowledge sharing and sustainable growth in the coffee sector. His work focuses on empowering businesses to roast locally, improve quality, and build stronger connections between coffee producers and consumers.