The intersection of science and blockchain technology is transforming the way research is funded, conducted and shared. This emerging movement, known as Decentralized Science (DeSci), aims to solve some of the most prevalent problems in traditional research systems (limited funding, restricted access, and lack of transparency) by leveraging decentralized networks and token-based economies.
In this article, we explore what DeSci is and highlight some of the most notable projects leading this advancement.
What is DeSci?
DeSci is a movement that applies blockchain principles to revolutionize the scientific research landscape. By creating decentralized platforms, DeSci enables open access to data, transparent funding mechanisms, and global collaboration between scientists, investors, and enthusiasts.
The DeSci value chain (2024). Source: Patrick Mayr
In essence, DeSci seeks to:
- democratize financing: Allow researchers to obtain funding directly from global communities rather than relying on slow and bureaucratic grant systems.
- Improve collaboration: Break down institutional silos and foster open source partnerships across disciplines and geographies.
- Ensure transparency: Use blockchain for immutable record-keeping of research results, patient recruitment consents, and other crucial records to ensure integrity and trust.
Unlike traditional systems that are often plagued by inefficiencies, decentralized science allows people (whether patients, donors, or researchers) to actively shape the direction of scientific discovery.
Key players in the DeSci ecosystem
Map of the DeSci sector. Source: Onchain Foundation
DeSci has attracted a growing number of innovators who are building decentralized platforms to address specific research challenges. These are some of the most notable projects:
- VitaDAO
VitaDAO is a decentralized collective that focuses on promoting human longevity research. Members pool resources to fund innovative studies in aging and longevity sciences, and collectively govern which projects receive support. In fact, this DAO structure democratizes decision-making, ensuring that research aligns with the interests of the community.
- Molecule
Molecule connects researchers to decentralized funding through a marketplace where intellectual property (IP) can be tokenized. This system allows researchers to receive funding in advance while allowing investors to participate in the potential success of the projects.
- data lake
Data Lake stands out for its focus on healthcare and medical research. Using Data Lake Chain, the platform allows patients to securely donate their medical data for research purposes through a transparent blockchain-based consent system. Additionally, its native token, LAKE, functions as a gas token, access token, and reward token, ensuring alignment between all stakeholders.
- research center
Often called “GitHub for science,” ResearchHub incentivizes researchers to share their work and collaborate through a token economy. Contributors earn ResearchCoin (RSC) for their efforts, fostering a decentralized, user-driven ecosystem for scientific knowledge sharing.
- BiohackerDAO
BiohackerDAO is a community-driven organization that supports biohacking and citizen science initiatives. It promotes open access research and allows people to contribute to and benefit from advances in DIY biology and genetic exploration.
- DeSci World
DeSci World serves as a hub for the broader DeSci community, offering resources, events, and a directory of active projects. It acts as a gateway for newcomers and experienced participants to interact with the movement.
Why DeSci is important
Traditional scientific systems often fail to address the challenges of modern research:
- Limited funding: Researchers rely on grants that are difficult to obtain and often come with strict requirements.
- Paywalls: Access to published scientific findings is restricted, creating barriers for researchers and the public.
- Lack of transparency: Cases of data manipulation and decision-making behind closed doors erode trust in research results.
DeSci provides solutions to these problems by promoting:
- Open access: Make research freely available to all, breaking down institutional barriers.
- Global collaboration: Connecting researchers, patients and funders around the world.
- Immutable records: Using blockchain to ensure data integrity and accountability.
The road ahead
While decentralized science is still in its infancy, its potential is immense. With projects like VitaDAO, Data Lake, and Molecule leading the way, we are witnessing the beginning of a decentralized research revolution.
By democratizing science, DeSci accelerates innovation. It also ensures that the benefits of research are shared more equitably.
As more blockchain technology is adopted in research, the lines between science and the public will continue to blur. Ultimately, it will create a future where everyone can contribute to and benefit from human progress.
