DATANA’s year in perspective: Shaping the future of data storage
Reflecting on 2024, we’re proud to highlight the milestones and progress that have driven DATANA forward this year. It’s been a journey of growth, innovation, and collaboration.
Let’s take a glimpse into the key events that have shaped our exceptional year:
January
DATANA presenting at Advanced Inkjet Technology Conference
Our engineering team started the year by attending the Advanced Inkjet Technology Conference in Fribourg, where Project manager Tomaž Karčnik, D.Sc also delivered an impactful speech on the use of inkjet technology for DNA data storage. The event strengthened collaborations within the PEARL-DNA consortium and opened doors to new partnerships.
February
Live DEMO at GS1 Global Forum in collaboration with Trace Labs and Church of Oak
In collaboration with Trace Labs and Church of Oak Distillery, we demonstrated how DNA tags enhance product authenticity and supply chain transparency. The proof of concept, presented in Brussels, highlighted innovative use cases for DNA tagging.
Successfully wrapping up the EIC Accelerator grant
DATANA team successfully concluded the first EU grant, the €1.8M EIC Accelerator, advancing our DNA data storage technology to Technology Readiness Level 8 (TRL 8). The grant enabled team growth, impactful pilots with Bitstamp and Trace Labs, and key advancements in system validation.
This milestone sets the stage for our next chapter with the EIC Pathfinder grant, where we lead the PEARL-DNA consortium to further scale DNA data storage innovation.
March
Participating in the EIC Summit 2024
We joined over 1,600 attendees at the EIC Summit, engaging in discussions on innovation procurement and showcasing our successful participation in the EIC Pathfinder Challenge. Tomaž Karčnik, D.Sc shared insights into building a consortium and navigating EIC’s guidelines, inspiring other innovators in the process.
Celebrating Luka Zupančič’s appointment as an EIC Ambassador
Luka Zupančič, M.Sc. Head of Business Development, was appointed as one of 22 EIC Ambassadors for 2021–2027. His role will involve providing valuable feedback to the European Innovation Council and representing its initiatives at key events to drive innovation across Europe.
June
DigNA portfolio meeting: Laying the foundation for a Strategic plan
Partners from nine DigNA projects gathered in Munich to align strategies and develop a common roadmap for collaborative efforts. The event included presentations, workshops, and discussions on joint activities, culminating in the drafting of a Strategic Plan to guide future efforts.
Opening a dedicated molecular biology lab
This year marked the opening of our upgraded molecular biology lab, equipped with cutting-edge technology to advance DNA data storage research. The facility strengthens our R&D capabilities and positions us as a leader in innovation while offering opportunities for collaboration through Laboratory as a Service. For detailed information about our lab, click here.
September
Encoding Rosalind Franklin’s paper into DNA
We successfully encoded Rosalind Franklin’s seminal work on DNA’s structure into synthetic DNA, showcasing the end-to-end DNA data storage process. This achievement not only honors her legacy but also demonstrates the robustness of our technology.
October
Promoting sustainable innovation at the EIC-EuroTech Workshop
At the Sustainable Electronics workshop in Brussels, Tomaž presented advancements from the DATANA and PEARL-DNA projects. The event provided valuable feedback and strengthened connections with policymakers and industry leaders.
November
Invitation to Macnica MET 2024
Tomaz Karčnik, D.Sc attended the 𝐌𝐚𝐜𝐧𝐢𝐜𝐚 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐓𝐞𝐜𝐡𝐧𝐨𝐥𝐨𝐠𝐲 (𝐌𝐄𝐓) 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒 conference in Japan on November 26–27. As part of the event, Tomaž delivered a 30-minute lecture on 𝐃𝐍𝐀 𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐚 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐠𝐞 and the potential real world applications, like big data storage, digital asset custody, and enhancing supply chain tracking. At the booth, Tomaž showcased current real-world applications of DNA data storage, including ultra-secure storage of sensitive data and supply chain tracking with DNA tags, and engaged with attendees exploring the possibilities of this sustainable technology. As an invite-only event, MET 2024 brought together global innovators to explore advanced technologies and foster cross-industry collaboration.
December
Accepted to NATO DIANA Accelerator programme
DATANA has been selected as one of 74 companies, out of over 2,600 applicants, to join the NATO DIANA accelerator. This program offers mentorship, funding, and collaboration opportunities, supporting our efforts in secure information sharing for defense and civilian applications. As part of the Data & Information Security cohort, we look forward to advancing our DNA data storage technology to safely and securely store our most valuable data.
For more information, you can visit the following LinkedIn post.
Presenting at GS1 Day
We had the privilege of participating in GS1 Day in Slovenia, where we shared insights into our DNA data storage and tagging technologies.
For more information on DNA tagging use case, click here.
DigNA portfolio webinar co-hosted by Tomaž Karčnik, D.Sc.
Tomaž Karčnik, DSc and dr. Robret Grass from ETH Zurich, co-hosted the first webinar on State of the Art DNA Data Storage, delivering a clear and easy-to-digest overview of field. You can find the recording of the webinar on Youtube.
While 2024 was a year of accomplishments, it also marked the beginning of new opportunities. We’re excited to announce that a renewed version of our website will launch in early 2025. The updated site will offer a fresh look and a user-friendly experience to better showcase our innovations and connect with our audience.
As we’re excited to carry this momentum forward into 2025, we look forward to continuing to work alongside our partners and community to redefine what’s possible in data storage.
