As a botanist, Dr King was mentored by the late Professor M.S. Swaminathan. He is a leading expert in Ethno-botany, agro-biodiversity conservation and sustainable agriculture. He has led pioneering initiatives in participatory research, small millet conservation, farmer-led value chain development, promotion of resilient agricultural systems and empowering farming communities through biodiversity conservation and sustainable practices. With nearly three decades of experience, he has spearheaded projects supported by FAO, GFAiR, IFAD, EU, IDRC, IFPRI, SDC, Global Crop Trust, Bioversity International, ICAR, NBA, PPFVRA and NABARD, focusing on Conservation, ecological sustainability, rural livelihoods, and policy advocacy. His publications and contributions are widely acknowledged and available here