Unlocking Privacy: The Future of Data-Protecting Smart Contracts with Thomas Kerber
In this episode of Unshielded: A Blockchain & Data Podcast by Midnight, host Anthony Day is joined by Thomas Kerber, Technical Architect at Midnight. They explore the evolution of the Kachina Protocol into Midnight, discussing the challenges and innovations in data-protecting smart contracts. Thomas provides insights into zero-knowledge proofs, demonstrates a round-trip transaction on Midnight, and shares his vision for the future of blockchain privacy.
In this episode of Unshielded: A Blockchain & Data Podcast by Midnight, host Anthony Day is joined by Thomas Kerber, Technical Architect at Midnight.
Join them as we discuss:
- The Kachina model for smart contracts and its novel approach to privacy in blockchain
- The evolution of Kachina from research to implementation in the Midnight network
- The challenges developers face when working with zero-knowledge proofs
- A round-trip transaction on Midnight, showcasing the intricacies of data-protecting smart contracts
- The potential impact of data-protecting smart contracts on blockchain adoption and data sovereignty
- The future of privacy-preserving blockchain technology and its applications
Thomas Kerber is a Technical Architect at Midnight, with a significant background in computer security and blockchain technology. His work on the Kachina Protocol and its evolution into Midnight has been groundbreaking in the field of smart contracts. Thomas brings a wealth of experience from his research and development at Input Output Global, particularly in the areas of privacy and scalability in blockchain systems.
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Episode Highlights:
[00:01:27] The potential of data-protecting smart contracts
[00:04:07] Overview of the Kachina model for smart contracts
[00:06:33] Evolution of Kachina into the Midnight Network
[00:08:42] SNARK upgradability in Midnight's design
[00:11:41] How zero-knowledge proofs enable data protection in smart contracts
[00:13:16] Challenges for developers working with zero-knowledge proofs
[00:16:28] Live demo: A round-trip transaction on Midnight
[00:30:47] The future of data-protecting smart contracts
Episode Resources: