This article explores the field of “decentralized science” (DeSci), an innovation that is expected to reshape the landscape of scientific discovery and knowledge sharing.
Blockchain technology has become a revolutionary force, shaking the foundations of various industries. From cryptocurrencies and decentralized finance (DeFi) to non-fungible tokens (NFT), each technological advance seems to expand the field of possibilities.
In the middle of this disruptive wave, another Web3 The use case has gradually developed – one that holds immense potential and is gradually emerging as a promising avenue for exploration.
The current state of science
![Healthcare researchers working in scientific laboratory.](https://blockzeit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Matej-Kastelic-Dreamstime-1024x576.jpg)
The state of modern science currently faces significant challenges. On the one hand, we have unprecedented access to a vast reservoir of information. However, there is a concerning issue involving large industrial interests that have managed to infiltrate the peer review process, thereby distorting research findings and potentially influencing the direction of scientific progress.
Interestingly, these issues draw parallels with the world of cryptocurrency, as both fields share a common adversary: centralization. The problems arising from centralized control of research and funding reflect the challenges posed by centralized power, as demonstrated by the questionable practices of various banks and governments around the world.
It should be noted that the scientific field is currently under siege. Fortunately, some cryptocurrency projects are preparing to tackle this problem head on. These projects recognize the need to address threats to the integrity of scientific research and promote a decentralized approach that promotes transparency, accountability and progress.
What is DeSci?
“DeSci,” short for decentralized science, represents a pioneering initiative to improve the scientific landscape through the integration of cutting-edge Web3 technologies. These technologies encompass things like blockchains, smart contracts, and decentralized storage protocols.
As detailed on Ethereum.org, the essence of decentralized science involves a dynamic movement dedicated to establishing a common infrastructure for activities such as funding, review, accreditation, storage and dissemination of scientific knowledge. This movement is fundamentally driven by the pursuit of justice and fairness, leveraging the capabilities of the Web 3.0 stack.
Essentially, DeSci can be distilled as the fusion of open source science and blockchain empowerment.
Current problems of today's science
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1. Coordination
When we consider the intricacies of the scientific enterprise, it becomes clear that it is a colossal collaborative undertaking. This effort encompasses various facets such as research, experimentation, data collection, peer review, and securing funding. A multitude of distinct stakeholders must harmonize their efforts to collectively advance our understanding through scientific exploration. However, the scientific community, like many other communities, tends to operate in a predominantly centralized framework. Unfortunately, this centralization exerts considerable influence on critical aspects, notably the allocation of funds.
In many cases, control over the distribution of funds is concentrated within selected centralized entities. This approach may inadvertently hinder the equitable allocation of resources. Additionally, funding agencies and affiliated institutions possess the power to dictate collaboration opportunities, potentially limiting the scope of partnerships in which individuals can engage within the scientific community.
Presentation of decentralized autonomous organizations (DAO)
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The concept of collaboration between scientists is not entirely new; platforms like GitHub have facilitated cooperation to some extent. However, the proposed paradigm takes this concept to a higher level. Beyond simply publishing results and collaborating on platforms, the idea involves integrating financial custody, decision-making and global data collaboration. Enter the DAOs, or decentralized autonomous organizationsa solution to the coordination dilemma.
A DAO means a decentralized autonomous organization, running on a blockchain. Smart contracts allow participants to participate in collective decision-making via voting mechanisms. The blockchain, acting as an incorruptible arbiter, ensures the execution of choices.
Currently, DAOs are used in particular for cash management. Imagine a DeFi application run by a DAO. When a proposal is made to allocate existing funds for a specific purpose, a proposal is submitted on the blockchain. Token holders participate in on-chain voting to determine the allocation of funds. This process is tamper-proof and decentralized.
2. Financing
The scientific community's heavy reliance on research grants is a well-established norm. When studying this topic, scientists often spend about half their time obtaining grants or dealing with grant-related issues for their projects.
If this scenario holds true, it becomes clear that the effectiveness of scientists is significantly compromised. Consider the potential if this considerable period of time could be reclaimed for pure scientific endeavors. Imagine the progress that can be made by harnessing the untapped capabilities of brilliant minds around the world. A simple 50% increase in productivity could have an exponential ripple effect on overall progress, far beyond a simple double advancement.
Applying for and receiving grants, especially from smaller, more restricted entities, often comes with restrictive conditions. These conditions may restrict collaborations and limit the scope of work. However, imagine a paradigm shift that would reshape these incentives and expand opportunities for collaboration. A convergence of the brightest minds could trigger monumental breakthroughs if the barriers were removed.
The key lies in reimagining the grant landscape, fundamentally changing how funding is obtained. By freeing these funding channels from gatekeeper control, we can unlock unprecedented potential. A transformative approach involves devising innovative methods to secure funding, circumvent traditional constraints, and shape a new trajectory of scientific progress. This redefinition has the power to reshape the scientific landscape on a large scale.
Let us now consider this application to DAOs. Just as DAOs streamline financial decisions, they could revolutionize the science funding landscape. Funding could be automated, eliminating central control and enabling global coordination. Scientists around the world could collaborate without restrictions, without being subject to centralized controls or intermediaries.
Current DeSci Projects
Clearly, a substantial use case highlights the importance of this concept. However, the landscape remains relatively sparse in terms of active projects within this industry that have gained significant recognition. Nevertheless, a handful of remarkable initiatives have emerged, serving as pioneers in this area. These early adopters are laying the groundwork and setting a precedent for what is to come.
1. Gitcoin (GTC)
![Untitled](https://blockzeit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Untitled-1024x510.png)
Gitcoin functions as a grants protocol running directly on the blockchain. The mechanism is quite simple: you formulate a proposal to seek funding and make it available via the platform. People then have the freedom to financially support these efforts using the platform.
2. LabDAO
![LabDAO](https://blockzeit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/LabDAO.png)
LabDAO is a research organization designed to accelerate advances in the computational life sciences and operates a decentralized network of open source computing laboratories.
3. Molecule
![623dc1aa776dfa295e12322c Opengraph image of molecule](https://blockzeit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/623dc1aa776dfa295e12322c_Molecule-Opengraph-Image-1024x538.jpg)
Molecule is a decentralized protocol for the biotechnology industry that develops a Web3 research-related intellectual property (IP) market.
4. DeSci Foundation
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The DeSci Foundation is a nonprofit organization that supports the development of decentralized science by funding research, providing education, and advocating for policy change.
5. DeSci Laboratories
![desci labs covers share text](https://blockzeit.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/desci-labs-cover-share-text-1024x661.jpg)
DeSci Labs is a Swiss software company that creates tools to develop open science through decentralized technologies.
Final Thoughts
Currently, DeSci exists primarily in the conceptual stage, with many teams actively developing their protocols. It falls into the category of blockchain use cases that possess the potential to significantly improve our global landscape. This represents a revolutionary shift in the crypto paradigm, with the ability to attract support from previously untapped sources such as leading universities, pharmaceutical companies, energy companies and government grants. As these partnerships materialize, true adoption will take shape.