Design Research for Digital Innovation (EPFL+ECAL Lab)

Romain Talou – Future Heritage

by Romain Talou

Future Heritage investigates how to make long-term, high-density information storage technologies more tangible. Working in the context of cultural heritage, the project allows institutions to keep their archives alive using DNA data storage for generations to come. Through a process of design research, the Future Heritage project explores how to make this synthetic DNA storage relevant for institutions today and far into the future. The resulting DNA storage object is designed to withstand environmental and societal changes over the next two thousand years. Using nano-engraving and a semiological approach, the object gives tangible hints and previews of the rich content that lies within it. In collaboration with: Claude Nobs Fondation, Swiss National Library (NL)