Decentralizing Scientific R&D with Blockchain @ MIT

Background

DeSci Boston was the first conference of its kind to bring together researchers and blockchain experts to further science innovation. The goal of Decentralized Science (DeSci) is to create an ecosystem where scientists are incentivized to openly share their research and receive credit for their work while allowing anyone to access and contribute to the research easily. Using the blockchain, decentralized science is default open access, across the globe, removing limits to collaboration and accessibility.

Problem

The traditional scientific research model is centralized, making it more resistant to censorship and control by central authorities. This model often limits access to funding, scientific tools, and communication channels, which can stifle new and unconventional ideas. Small, closed, centralized groups control the distribution of funds, as a result, typically established and well networking scientists receive funding, rather than scientists with truly novel and breakthrough ideas.

DeSci aimed to address these issues by creating a more decentralized and distributed scientific research model. Before DeSci Boston, there had been no dedicated DeSci conferences in the United States, so we hosted the first one!

Solution

We organized the first-ever DeSci conference in the US, hosting it at MIT. DeSci Boston hosted and brought together researchers, scientists, and blockchain experts from around the world. The conference provided a platform for attendees to discuss how blockchain technology can be used in scientific research. We also discussed how a decentralized approach could make scientific knowledge more accessible while promoting transparency in the research process.

Impact

• Increased awareness of the potential benefits of using blockchain technology in scientific research

• Promoted discussion around decentralizing access to funding, scientific tools, and communication channels

• Inspired attendees to continue exploring new ways of conducting scientific research that promote transparency and accessibility

• Increased interest in future DeSci conferences and joining impact organizations related to open science.

• Brought DeSci to the minds of researchers in the Boston area, including MIT, Harvard, and Northeastern.