Despite originally training as a lawyer, James Fearnley has spent the last four decades researching, developing and promoting natural medicines derived from plants and the beehive. Much of his work has focused on understanding the remarkable properties of propolis and exploring how natural systems can contribute to healthier, more regenerative futures.
 

James founded the Apiceutical Research Centre in 2011 to advance research into bee-derived medicines and sustainable beekeeping practices. In 2016, he established the International Propolis Research Group, which brings together researchers from around the world through international conferences and collaboration.
 

He is currently developing BeeArc – The Nature of the Future, a combined discovery and research centre exploring how the honeybee can inspire new ways of thinking about social, economic and cultural life. James also pioneered The Dispensary, a community health initiative promoting the idea of 'future health' – encompassing social, economic and cultural wellbeing alongside physical health.

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Alongside his practical work, James is a PhD researcher at the University of York, where he is examining how people respond to the global metacrisis and how more holistic, regenerative approaches to health, community and society may help address it.