Isha Datar

Isha Datar currently holds the position of Executive Director at New Harvest, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the progression of cellular agriculture. Her commitment to this scientific frontier is evident not only in her pivotal role in its development over the past decade but also in her foundational work in coining the term "cellular agriculture," which refers to the cultivation of agricultural products from cellular components in a laboratory setting. This innovative concept led to her co-founding Perfect Day Foods and The Every Company, both trailblazers in cellular agriculture. Datar's dedication to her field is further illustrated by her decision to donate all founding equity in these companies to New Harvest, aiming to bolster cellular agriculture research.

A respected thought leader in her field, Datar has been invited to share her expertise at various high-profile events, including TEDTalks and industry conferences. In October 2021, she delivered a compelling TED Talk titled "How we could eat real meat without harming animals". She also appeared at TEDMonterey in August 2021, where she discussed the potential of cellular agriculture as a climate solution. Her hands-on involvement in the field has made her a sought-after authority on subjects such as bioengineering, genetics, sustainability, and entrepreneurial thinking. Additionally, she has been featured in a presentation titled "From Animal Farm to Science Lab: The High-Tech Future of Food," discussing the future of food industries through lab-grown animal products.

Datar holds a bachelor’s degree in cell and molecular biology from the University of Alberta and a master’s in biotechnology from the University of Toronto. Her academic background, combined with her pioneering work and recognized leadership, make her a valuable resource for industries such as farming, grocery, and venture capital, where she is available for consulting, workshops, and customized keynotes. Her work continues to focus on reducing the environmental impact of the food industry by developing sustainable methods for producing meat, dairy, and eggs.