DNA molecules offer an alternative to storage information at extremely high spatial density. They remain stable for hundreds of years at a low energy cost, making them a natural information repository. As we approach the 10th anniversary of the Church’s publication, it is timely to look back and recall the recent main accomplishments. Although it was not the first time that information had been coded into DNA, their work showed the technology’s viability.

The ever-present connectivity in our lives, and the data storage demands that come with it, is growing exponentially. The projected material supply for silicon-based memory technologies is unable to satisfy future demand, therefore, alternative memory materials are being explored in academia and industry1. DNA is analogous to a biological hard drive. It carries and transfers information with exceptional density, stability, and energy efficiency, making it a compelling alternative to current non-volatile information storage technologies.

To wrap up the DNA Data Storage track, Dave Landsman, along with session presenters and others from the DNA Data Storage Alliance, will host an open and informal Q&A. The notion of DNA data storage is still very new to those not having been in the emerging field over the last decade, and we will answer all your questions to help make it more real.