Source: PixelPlex

DeFi! DeSci!

What differentiates them?

The former is the evolution of the finance industry. The latter is the proposed evolution of…you guessed right, science. Who knew web3 could be for academics too?

You might not be aware but there is a movement focused at improving the traditional methods of scientific research using decentralized technologies like DLTs (e.g. blockchain).

Firstly, let's dive into the world of traditional science:

Common knowledge tells us that scientific research is done in research facilities and higher academic institutions. This is so because these facilities and institutions provide the resources (funding, expertise, equipment, laboratories, etc) needed. Scientists, therefore, have to rely on these bodies.

Also, scientific research isn't just carried out by anybody. Individuals deemed knowledgeable enough are responsible for carrying out scientific research as they must have undergone years of training, experiments, and failed tests to be able to produce positive results.

For centuries, it's been this way. However, with improved technology, science itself is evolving. A newly proposed form of science is what we'll be discussing in this article - Decentralized Science (DeSci).

It is worth noting that DeSci is not entirely a new concept. About 20 years ago, a group of scientists came together to form something termed "Open Science" movement, which is a school of thought with the main objective of making scientific research open and accessible to everyone.

Now let's dive into the world of decentralized science:

Decentralized Science (DeSci) is a movement that aims to improve the traditional mode of scientific research especially in terms of funding, using distributed ledger technologies (DLTs) like blockchain. The entire process of scientific research as we know it is usually funded by research facilities and academic institutions. This gives them control over scientists' works but DeSci aims to remove censorship and promote a decentralized & distributed model of scientific research.

Some Ways DeSci Aims to Improve Traditional Science

Better Access to Funding: in the traditional model of scientific research, scientists find it difficult to get funding for their works. They have to write numerous grant proposals and hope for government, non-profit organizations or venture capital firms to provide capital. Sometimes, these firms set difficult criteria that need to be met for grants to be provided to scientists.

However, DeSci proposes another model for scientists to get funds - through the public. Crowdfunding platforms can be employed by scientists to secure funds from the community directly. These crowdfunding platforms, usually powered by blockchain technology, provide transparency which is very vital in understanding how donated funds are distributed and utilized.

Decentralized Data Storage & Open Access to Data: most scientific papers we see on the internet today are hidden behind paywalls which require interested people to pay to be able to access them. This makes it even harder for other scientists to collaborate and contribute to those papers. Public blockchains are open-sourced and so they allow everyone to access data stored on them.

Organization: DAOs are decentralized autonomous organizations that run on blockchain technology. DeSci employs the use of DAOs in ensuring collaboration between scientists, transparent fund allocation, and active governance participation by all members.

DESCI PROJECTS

Source: Forbes

There are a few projects already building on the concept of DeSci.

DeSci Foundation: this protocol aims to explore and support improvements in the scientific ecosystem based on insights from meta-science.

VitaDAO: is a DAO dedicated to funding and advancing exceptional longevity scientific research that will help people live longer healthier lives.

Molecule: this is a decentralized biotech protocol, building a marketplace for research and the IP-NFT framework.

SCINET: is a decentralized life sciences research & investment platform, powered by blockchain tech, that aims to revolutionize the method through which people interact with science and support it.

CryoDAO: the aim of this DAO is to invest in cryopreservation research projects that have a high potential to increase the quality and capabilities of cryopreservation.

{You can carry out some research to learn about cryopreservation}.

HairDAO: a DAO in search of a cure for hair loss.

Halogen: is a coordination platform for scientific research that maps out fields, problems, and approaches in real time. Can also be referred to as an "integrated system for scientists to define problems and approaches to them, safely collaborate with everyone working on the same problem, and maintain objective standards for their fields."

Data Lake: is a system that leverages Polygon blockchain to connect patients with researchers in need of medical data to support their efforts to find cures and new treatment for diseases.

ValleyDAO: is an open, global community that provides funds and democratizes the governance of synthetic biology technologies that aim to protect the future of planet Earth.

There are many more DeSci Projects out there building the future of science.

What are your thoughts on DeSci? Share in the comment section.