Proof of DeSci

In this episode of Proof of DeSci, we explore the power of community and creators in shaping the future of decentralized science. Joined by That Investor,  Andrew Hemingway, Morgan and Albert from ValleyDAO, we dive into how DeSci communities are flipping the script on traditional science funding, why content creators and influencers are becoming vital to the movement, and how crypto-native culture is accelerating interest in climate biotech. From the speed of funding to the value of storytelling, this conversation unpacks the cultural shift happening at the intersection of crypto and science, and why embracing memes, media, and unconventional voices might be the key to scaling impact.

Michael Luciani is the co-founder of Juniper VC, a venture firm focused on climate biotech and sustainable innovations. In this discussion, he reveals how Juniper sees opportunities in biotech beyond pharmaceuticals, investing in agriculture and materials. Luciani highlights the role of AI in transforming biotech, and the shifting funding landscape through community-driven initiatives like ValleyDAO. Topics such as microbial fertilizers and consumer biotech innovations are also covered, showcasing their potential to engage the public in climate solutions.

Join Rodrigo Ledesma-Amaro, an academic expert in sustainable production from Imperial College London, and Oliver Konzock, a genetic engineering postdoc, as they unveil the groundbreaking Cocoa Zero project. They discuss engineering yeast strains to produce cocoa fats that rival traditional cocoa butter, tackling the challenges of climate change and rising cocoa prices. Albert Anis from ValleyDAO shares insights on funding these innovative solutions. Together, they explore how decentralized science is reshaping the chocolate industry for a sustainable future.

In this episode, we’re joined by David Sun Kong, Director of the Community Biotechnology Initiative at MIT Media Labs, to dive deep into the world of decentralized science (DeSci). David shares insights into the innovative “How to Grow Almost Anything” program, a course that empowers students to explore synthetic biology and biotech at scale. We also explore the exciting intersection of DeSci and AI, with a special focus on the potential of Bio Protocol’s AI agents. Additionally, Albert and Dan from ValleyDAO update us on the latest progress from the “Cocoa Zero” project, a DeSci-powered sustainable cocoa butter replacement, and the impact of this work on the future of sustainable food production.Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on the future of biotech, decentralized science, and how DeSci is shaping the future of innovation.

In this episode, we ask the big question: Is DeSci dead, or just getting started?We’re joined by Geoff Anders from Quantum Biology DAO and Erik Van Winkle from Bio Protocol for a deep dive into the cutting edge of decentralized science. From building quantum microscopes to launching autonomous AI research agents, our guests explore what it means to do science in Web3, and what’s next for the DeSci movement. Hosted by Tom Fraczak (ValleyDAO), with Morgan Richards joining from the ValleyDAO team.🎧 Topics covered:The future of quantum biologyBio Protocol’s BioHackathon + AI AgentsWhy DeSci is evolving, not dyingBuilding science tools that actually work in Web3Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more.

In this inaugural episode of Proof of DeSci, we dive into Hempy’s groundbreaking research, transforming hemp fibers into softer, more sustainable textiles using enzyme treatments. Join Filippo Fabbri (Hempy Project), Ella McCarthy-Page (Molecule), and Albert Anis and Morgan Richards (ValleyDAO) as they discuss the science behind this achievement, the journey of crowdfunding biotech research through decentralized science (DeSci), and why tangible research breakthroughs like Hempy’s prove the DeSci model works.