Episode 4 | Cocoa Zero - The Future of Sustainable Chocolate
In this exciting episode of Proof of DeSci, we’re joined by Dr. Rodrigo Ledesma-Amaro and Dr. Oliver Konzock from Imperial College London to dive deep into the Cocoa Zero project, an innovative effort to produce sustainable cocoa fats using synthetic biology. Led by ValleyDAO’s support, this project is a game-changer in the chocolate industry, offering a solution to the rising cocoa prices driven by climate change and supply chain disruptions.Rodrigo and Oliver share their journey behind engineering yeast strains to produce cocoa fats, which mimic the qualities of traditional cocoa butter. With this breakthrough, the team is one step closer to creating a DeSci-powered chocolate bar, making sustainability delicious. We’ll also explore how DeSci is not just an idea, but a rapidly growing force driving real-world innovation.Join us as we explore the intersection of science, sustainability, and innovation, and how projects like Cocoa Zero prove that DeSci is here to stay and thrive.Don’t miss this fascinating conversation, and be sure to tune in to hear how you can support and get involved in funding revolutionary projects like Cocoa Zero.
--------
44:35
Episode 3 | Exploring HTGAA, New Initiatives & Cocoa Zero Update
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.
--------
56:25
Episode 2 | Quantum Biology, Bio Hackathon & AI Agents
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.
--------
51:57
Episode 1 | From Lab to Textile: Hempy's Breakthrough and the Case for DeSci
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.
Proof of DeSci by ValleyDAO is a podcast series showcasing real scientific breakthroughs funded through decentralized science. Each episode dives into research milestones, researcher stories, and the impact DeSci is creating, proving that decentralized science works.