​Modern seed breeding largely focuses on optimizing yield—but what becomes of flavor, culture, and traditional ecological knowledge in the pursuit of profit? Across many regions of the world, intensified floods and fires threaten to narrow genetic diversity within seed systems. Who, then, is saving the much-needed memory of seeds?

​For this Learning Lab we’re joined by Debarati Chakraborty, PhD, scientist and CEO of Naturophilia India. We’ll explore Dr. Debarati’s work at the intersection of seeds, soil, and cultural heritage throughout regions of India and Nepal, with a focus on the quiet and powerful efforts of communities to maintain their cultural memory through farming and seed saving.

​Dr. Debarati’s research, work, and field experiences connect the worlds of AI, seed genetics, biotechnology, and community knowledge. Moving between laboratory science and living landscapes, she works alongside farmers, seed keepers, and communities who are protecting biodiversity and cultural heritage outside formal markets.

​Join us to explore the connections between Indigenous seed conservation and community resilience, while safeguarding the delicious ancient tastes and medicines that sustain future generations.

​Together we’ll explore…

​🌱 Seed saving as a pathway for cultural memory

​🌱 Low-tech, low-cost approaches to amending and improving soil fertility

​🌱 What mainstream seed genetics often miss in efforts to maximize profitability

​Join Dr. Debarati Chakraborty in this Learning Lab to explore the relationships between traditional ecological knowledge, seed sovereignty, cultural resilience in India and beyond.