Dubai Launches OPENSCI: A New Global Science Initiative Powered by AI and Blockchain
Dubai officially launched the global science initiative OPENSCI, taking a major step toward transforming how scientific research is funded, credited, and accelerated worldwide. Professor Roger Kornberg, Nobel Prize winner in Chemistry and Chairman of the World Laureates Association, announced the launch during a joint session of the World Laureates Summit and the World Governments Summit.
A New Model for Funding and Rewarding Science
OPENSCI aims to address long-standing challenges in the scientific ecosystem, particularly around fair recognition and compensation for researchers. The project seeks to ensure that scientists receive proper credit and timely rewards for their work, while also creating a more transparent and efficient funding structure.
OPENSCI combines advanced technology with new incentive models to accelerate scientific progress while protecting researchers’ rights and contributions.
The OPENSCI Digital Platform
At the core of the initiative is the OPENSCI digital platform, which uses artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain technology. These technologies allow scientific work to be tracked securely, transparently, and immutably.
Through this system:
- Every research idea, dataset, and discovery can be recorded with verified proof
- Contributions are clearly attributed to their creators
- Rewards can be distributed quickly and fairly
This approach prevents the loss of intellectual property and ensures proper acknowledgment of scientific work.
Scientific Tokens and AI-Powered Research Tools
According to Professor Kornberg, OPENSCI is built around two key innovations.
- Scientific Tokens Linked to Real Research
OPENSCI introduces scientific tokens directly connected to validated research output. These tokens act as a new funding mechanism, supporting research activities while rewarding contributors based on measurable progress.
- AI Platform for Scientists
The initiative also includes an AI-powered platform where AI agents can:
- Search and analyze scientific studies
- Help solve complex research problems
- Suggest new ideas and research directions
This allows scientists to work more efficiently and focus on innovation rather than administrative or repetitive tasks.
Milestone-Based, Long-Term Research Funding
Unlike traditional one-time grants, OPENSCI supports long-term, milestone-based funding. The system releases financial support gradually as projects reach predefined goals. This model encourages steady progress, better planning, and sustained research efforts over time.
Such an approach reduces funding uncertainty and allows scientists to focus on meaningful outcomes rather than short-term results.
Accelerating Global Collaboration
OPENSCI strengthens collaboration across universities, research institutions, and countries. By enabling teams to share verified data quickly and securely, the platform helps reduce the time between discovery and real-world application.
This collaborative structure will significantly shorten research cycles and promote cross-border innovation.
Building Trust in Scientific Research
AI also plays a role in faster verification of scientific work, helping to build trust in research outcomes. By improving validation processes and transparency, OPENSCI creates stronger incentives for innovation, collaboration, and ethical research practices.
A Global Vision for the Future of Science
The launch of OPENSCI took place alongside the World Laureates Summit 2026, which brings together Nobel Prize winners, government leaders, technology experts, and business executives. The summit focuses on shaping science and society over the next 25 years.
Notably, this is the first time that leading scientists and policymakers have come together at such a global scale to discuss the future of basic science and its role in addressing global challenges.
Conclusion
With the launch of OPENSCI, Dubai continues to position itself as a global hub for innovation, science, and future technologies. By combining AI, blockchain, and new funding models, OPENSCI represents a bold step toward a more transparent, fair, and collaborative global scientific ecosystem—one that rewards innovation and accelerates progress for the benefit of society.