Make the most of your meeting experience
At AOCS, we understand the power of connections. Our networking and social events are carefully curated to bring together an inspired scientific community of industry experts, innovators, and thought leaders.
Whether you're a seasoned expert or just starting your journey, the chance to network with like-minded individuals and engage in meaningful discussions is invaluable.
Events are open to all annual meeting registrants. Please note that some events require sign up as part of registration and fees may apply.
You can view a full schedule of 2026 networking events below.
If you already registered and want to purchase tickets for one of these events, please email membership@aocs.org.
| Event Name | Day | Date | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Newcomer Meet & Greet: Reception for First-Time Attendees and New Members | Sunday | May 3 | 3:30–4:30 p.m. | Elite Foyer |
| Welcome Reception | Sunday | May 3 | 5:30–7 p.m. | Elite Hall |
| Student and Early Career Networking Reception | Sunday | May 3 | 7–8 p.m. | Bywater Pool & Deck |
| Fuel & Connect: Coffee Break with Exhibitors | Monday | May 4 | 10–10:30 a.m. | Elite Hall |
| Canadian Section Luncheon | Monday | May 4 | Noon–1 p.m. | Bolden 3 |
| Fuel & Connect: Coffee Break with Exhibitors | Monday | May 4 | 3–3:30 p.m. | Elite Hall |
| Networking Reception and Dedicated Poster Viewing | Monday | May 4 | 5–6 p.m. | Elite Hall |
| AOCS Journals Cocktail Hour | Monday | May 4 | 5–6 p.m. | Elite Hall: Exhibit Hall Theatre |
| Analytical Division Reception | Monday | May 4 | 6–7:15 p.m. | Empire Foyer East |
| Edible Applications Technology Division Reception | Monday | May 4 | 6–7:15 p.m. | Bywater Pool & Deck |
| Health and Nutrition Division Reception | Monday | May 4 | 6–7:15 p.m. | Celestin F |
| Industrial Oil Products Division Reception | Monday | May 4 | 6–7:15 p.m. | Celestin H |
| Phospholipid Division Dinner | Monday | May 4 | 6–7:15 p.m. | Celestin H |
| Fuel & Connect: Coffee Break with Exhibitors | Tuesday | May 5 | 10–10:30 a.m. | Elite Hall |
| China Section Luncheon | Tuesday | May 5 | Noon–1 p.m. | Bolden 3 |
| Fuel & Connect: Coffee Break with Exhibitors | Tuesday | May 5 | 3–3:30 p.m. | Elite Hall |
| Networking Reception and Dedicated Poster Viewing | Tuesday | May 5 | 5–6 p.m. | Elite Hall |
| Biotechnology Division Reception | Tuesday | May 5 | 6–7:15 p.m. | Empire Foyer East |
| Lipid Oxidation and Quality Division Reception | Tuesday | May 5 | 6–7:15 p.m. | Celestin F |
| Processing Division Reception | Tuesday | May 5 | 6–7:15 p.m. | 8 Block Kitchen |
| Protein and Co-Products Division Dinner | Tuesday | May 5 | 7–8:30 p.m. | Celestin H |
| Surfactants and Detergents Division Reception | Tuesday | May 5 | 6–7:15 p.m. | Bywater Pool & Deck |
| Fuel & Connect: Coffee Break with Exhibitors | Wednesday | May 6 | 10–10:30 a.m. | Elite Hall |
Division and Section Events
Receptions
Relax and Refresh in the Expo Hall
Technical Session Development Roundtables
Division and Section Events
Meet colleagues with similar scientific and technological interests, discover opportunities to collaborate, or find your next career opportunity by attending one of these events. Divisions and Sections develop AOCS programming, fund student awards and travel grants, and offer numerous leadership opportunities.
RECEPTIONs
Welcome Reception
Step into a world of possibilities as we kick off the meeting. Connect with other attendees in the Expo Hall and enjoy complimentary appetizers and beverages.
Student and Early Career Networking Reception
Connect with fellow attendees at similar career stages to discuss trends, overcome challenges, and share your knowledge and insights. All attendees are welcome!
Fuel & Connect: Receptions with Exhibitors and Poster Presenters
Enjoy light hors d'oeuvres and drinks as you meet with other attendees and exhibitors in the Expo Hall.
Relax and refresh in the Expo Hall
Refreshment Breaks and Networking
Enjoy freshly brewed coffee and teas. Network with exhibitors and other attendees.
Grab-and-Go Expo Lunch
Enjoy a quick and convenient lunch in the exhibit hall. Fuel up before an afternoon of learning, and spend some time networking with exhibitors and other meeting attendees. Attendees can purchase lunches on Monday and Tuesday of the meeting.
Corporate Member Lounge
All employees of our valued AOCS Corporate Members are welcome to enjoy the lounge which features morning coffee service, device charging stations, and comfortable spaces for conversations.
@home at AOCS
- Take a fun, souvenir photo with photobooth props in front of the green screen.
- Take a break and catch up with colleagues.
- Get your questions answered by AOCS staff.
- Browse AOCS books and products.
- Learn about the AOCS Career Center’s available tools and resources.
- Learn about AOCS Scientific and Society Awards.
- Join an AOCS Division, Section, or Common Interest Group.
Technical Session Development Roundtables
Help develop future annual meeting technical programs. Share ideas, suggest session topics, and connect with peers who drive the conversation forward.
All 10 AOCS Divisions host roundtables on site at the annual meeting. Details about 2026 rountables will be available soon.
Questions?
If you have questions about the annual meeting schedule, please contact Ellen Snipes, Director of Meetings and Exhibits at ellen.snipes@aocs.org.