Center for DNA Data Storage

DNA Data Storage is an emerging, interdisciplinary research field that represents the deep integration of Information Technology and Biotechnology. The convergence of information technology with the economy and society has made data a foundational strategic resource for nations. The explosive growth of massive data is having a profound impact on global production, circulation, distribution, economic operations, social lifestyles, and national governance. Therefore, developing next-generation data storage media with long-term stability, minimal spatial and energy consumption, high environmental resilience, and robust security—breaking through the bottlenecks of massive data storage—has become a major strategic priority for leading nations worldwide.

The Center for DNA Data Storage was established in 2021 with support from the Shanghai Jiao Tong University (SJTU) Interdisciplinary Innovation Fund. Addressing the national strategic needs of the big data era, the center brings together SJTU’s leading expertise in nucleic acid chemistry, chemical biology, artificial intelligence, and computer systems to form a multidisciplinary research hub.

Center for DNA Data Storage is dedicated to pioneering transformative information materials, algorithms, and integrated platforms. Through collaborative innovation, we aim to overcome key challenges such as the encoding capacity limits of nucleic acid-based information materials, their large-scale synthesis, and in vivo computation. Our mission is to tackle major scientific and technological challenges, including the design and synthesis of nucleic acid molecular units and assemblies, molecular networks and living-cell-based intelligent computing, and DNA big data storage systems. By developing novel methods and technologies for intelligent data processing and ultrahigh-capacity storage, we strive to establish Center for DNA Data Storage as a global academic leader in DNA-based data storage research.