The rise of decentralized science

For centuries, scientific publishing has followed the same basic structure. Researchers submit papers to journals, wait months or even years for peer review and face expensive paywalls to share or read findings. Today, a growing movement known as decentralised science, or DeSci, is challenging this outdated model. Philipp Koellinger, CEO and co-founder of open science pioneer DeSci Labs, explains how this new approach is changing science across the globe.

Scientific publishing should promote knowledge sharing and help new discoveries reach the world. Yet the current system often does the opposite. Many researchers face long delays in publication. They also pay high fees to publish and may be blocked from reading key papers due to paywalls. A few powerful publishers control most of the industry. They earn large profits while relying on scientists to peer review research for free.

This system slows innovation and limits collaboration. It also makes it harder for researchers in lower-income institutions to access the latest findings in their fields.

DeSci aims to solve these problems. It uses blockchain and open-access tools to reshape how science is published and funded. Platforms like DeSci Publish allow researchers to share work openly and permanently, without gatekeepers. This creates transparent records that cannot be changed or removed.

The rise of DeSci

DeSci rests on several principles. Open-access publishing increases visibility and allows others to build on shared findings. Peer reviewers receive payment for fast, careful work. Blockchain records ensure that all contributors are credited. This supports a fair and open scientific process.

New web-based tools help researchers share more than just papers. They can also publish data and code, which others can use to repeat or extend their findings. This helps address the replication crisis now troubling many research fields. Platforms like DeSci Publish also give every upload a unique digital identifier. This prevents broken links or lost content and builds a lasting scientific archive.

DeSci also allows new ways to fund research. Smart contracts let donors and organisations support projects directly, without needing approval from large institutions. This speeds up decisions and opens up funding for overlooked areas, such as rare diseases or replication studies.

By removing barriers, DeSci promotes a more democratic and collaborative approach to science. Researchers gain more control over their work. Readers benefit from open access to new knowledge. As more scientists adopt DeSci tools, the publishing system will move towards greater openness, trust and speed.

To join the DeSci movement and help rebalance the power in scientific publishing in favour of researchers, sign up to DeSci Publish for free.