Michael Baran on Decentralized Science and Investing in Blockchain Technology
Nov 14, 2023
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Michael Baran, Executive Director at WRDM and partner at Pfizer Ventures, delves into the revolutionary potential of decentralized science (DeSci). He explores how DeSci is redefining traditional biotech paradigms and enhancing investment models through decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs). Michael discusses the risks in early-stage science investments, challenges in biopharma, and common misconceptions about the sector. He emphasizes the importance of maintaining scientific quality while navigating the complexities of innovation and funding in the evolving landscape.
Decentralized science (DeSci) offers innovative funding mechanisms that alleviate capital shortages by leveraging decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs).
Despite its advantages, DeSci faces challenges in governance and accountability, necessitating mechanisms to ensure progress and attract ongoing investment.
Deep dives
Current Perception of Blockchain and Investment Opportunities
Many tech investors view blockchain as a dead technology, considering it uninvestable at the present moment. However, this lessened interest in blockchain creates a unique opportunity for developers who are not pressured by investor demands, allowing them the necessary time to innovate. During periods of less scrutiny, significant progress can be made, especially in decentralized science (DeSci), where excitement has waned but foundational work is ongoing. The podcast suggests that such a climate might actually benefit those building valuable projects within this sector, as they can focus on long-term goals rather than immediate returns.
D-Sci and Alternative Funding Models
The podcast delves into the advantages of decentralized science (DeSci) over traditional biotech funding, emphasizing its potential to alleviate capital shortages for early-stage projects. DeSci offers an alternative source of funding via decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs), attracting more diverse contributions and expertise than traditional venture capital setups. The example of VITA DAO highlights how its large membership base facilitates opportunity sourcing and due diligence, significantly increasing operational reach compared to conventional venture firms. This innovative structure aims to provide more 'shots on goal' for breakthroughs in life sciences, capitalizing on underrepresented academic ideas.
Challenges and Opportunities in D-Sci Governance
Despite the novel advantages that decentralized models present, the podcast outlines key challenges in governance and accountability within DAOs. While decentralized structures are beneficial for sourcing ideas, they may struggle with maintaining oversight and direction once funding is secured for a project. As diverse groups engage with funded projects, the need for a centralized authority becomes apparent to ensure progress and accountability. Therefore, it's critical to strike a balance by incorporating accountability mechanisms without sacrificing the benefits of decentralization, legitimizing the DAO's effectiveness.
Measuring Success and Long-Term Viability of D-Sci Projects
A significant challenge for decentralized science initiatives is finding a reliable method to quantify success and attract ongoing investment from traditional venture capital. The current focus is on generating projects that catch the attention of traditional investors to sustain funding beyond seed stages. The podcast stresses that while successes in D-Sci may take time due to the inherently lengthy nature of life sciences, the strategic partnerships formed can lead to valuable new insights and innovations. Ultimately, sustaining value generation before funds are depleted is a crucial concern that D-Sci initiatives must address to survive and thrive.
Welcome to another episode of the DeSci Podcast. Today, we had the privilege of having Michael Baran as our guest. Michael Baran, MBA, Ph.D. is Executive Director, WRDM, and partner at Pfizer Ventures.
In this episode, Michael discusses the unique features of DeSci, highlighting how it is reshaping the scientific landscape and redefining traditional paradigms.
We also explored the significant risks in early-stage science investment and discussed key factors deterring investors from entering the cryptocurrency and blockchain sectors.
Michael draws insightful comparisons between DeSci and the Traditional model, exploring both their similarities and differences.
Other topics we discussed are the underappreciated values of traditional biotech, common misconceptions about Biopharma, the need for maintaining scientific quality, and many more.
Feel free to navigate any topics discussed in the Podcast using the timestamps below.
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⭐ Timestamps:
0:00 Intro
1:07 What is the strong case for DeSci?
2:57 Advantages of DeSci Over Traditional Biotech
3:00 Risks associated with investing in early-stage science
4:35 DeSci vs. Traditional Model: Similarities and differences
7:38 Strongest critique of Desci
11:09 Measuring success
13:26 Underexplored areas in Biopharma
15:32 Common misconceptions about Biopharma
16:51 Pfizer partnership models
23:40 Underappreciated values of traditional Biotech
26:43 Maintaining scientific quality
28:40 Contentious topics within your field
31:14 Implicit knowledge in Biopharma
34:26 Recurring challenges in Michael's career
35:42 Selecting the best ideas
39:18 Outro
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If you prefer listening to podcasts on audio apps, feel free to search for "The DeSci Podcast" on Spotify, Google Podcasts & Apple Podcasts. You'll also find all links to the podcast apps below.
If you want to join us on the show as a speaker or have guest ideas, please shoot us an mail at podcast@molecule.to
Special thanks to
Lea Degen: https://twitter.com/lealeata
Michael Baran: https://twitter.com/scienceman2023
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Let's connect:
Website: https://bit.ly/3d6nh2C
X: https://twitter.com/Molecule_dao
Discord: https://discord.com/invite/moleculedao
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