Prof. Dr. Fernand Lambein dedicated his career to studying Lathyrus sativus (grass pea). In grass pea, Dr. Lambein saw a plant with great potential and a nasty danger. This legume has a unique drought resistance but can cause neurodegenerative crippling disease, neurolathyrism, when overconsumed. The condition occurs mainly in Asia and Africa, where grass pea has become a staple food due to drought-trigged famine. Fernand Lambein's mission was to eradicate neurolathyrism and promote Lathyrus sativus as a nutritious food source, equivalent to other legumes.

Upon his death, inspired by his unwavering passion, the daughters, Ingrid and Kathleen Lambein, committed to keep the father's work alive. Joining forces with Lieve Ongena, a former Ph.D. student of Fernand, and Marc Heijde, a colleague of him, Ingrid and Kathleen Lambein established the Fernand Lambein Fund. The Fund is a testament to Fernand’s unwavering dedication to science and his profound desire to make a lasting impact on the world. The aim is to promote knowledge and technology transfer to developing countries, focusing on sustainable food solutions.