About

Our story

The disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated the potential of mRNA to provide considerable benefit as a platform medicine. However, this event also demonstrated that as a new technology, many manufacturing infrastructures were under equipped to support large scale manufacture of mRNA medicines. One critical barrier was the lack of a skilled workforce that could support the manufacture of mRNA medicines and its needed growth. In partnership with mRNA Victoria, Monash University established Australia's first dedicated mRNA workforce training centre to address this workforce shortage. Through a landmark agreement supported by a $10 million grant from the Victoria Government, the Monash mRNA Workforce Training Centre (the Centre) was established.

Dan Andrews at mRNA facility launch

Our Objectives

The Centre develops short courses and training programs to deliver best-practice education and training across the mRNA vaccines and therapeutics pipeline - from research and development, through clinical trials, manufacture, and beyond. In parallel to supporting the mRNA industry, the Centre also offers training to the general pharmaceutical industry.

In the development and delivery of its training, the Centre has two broad objectives:

  • To establish knowledge and skill development across the mRNA manufacturing life cycle - with an initial focus on mRNA/nucleic acid discovery, development and production.
  • To support growth of the mRNA and pharmaceutical manufacturing sectors through the delivery of technical competencies and practical, hands-on training.

Our team

Formed in 2023, the Centre's team has steadily grown. The Centre is comprised of an enthusiastic and knowledgeable team that are passionate about supporting the growth of the mRNA and pharmaceutical industries.  Each team member has played a pivotal role in the growth of the Centre.

Our Industry Advisory Group

To ensure that the activities of the Centre are consistent with the needs of industry, we have a group of experienced professionals who use their expertise to support the growth of the Centre. Consisting of key industry and government stakeholders across the mRNA manufacturing sector, our Industry Advisory Group provides professional expertise and recommendations to facilitate the development of the Centre and its short courses and training.

More about mRNA Research

Monash is home to Australia's  largest network of RNA and mRNA researchers. Learn  more broadly about the RNA ecosystem at Monash that's leading to the rapid development of life-saving vaccines and therapeutic treatments. In addition to the Centre, mRNA Victoria also supports other domestic and international mRNA initiatives. Learn more about what they do and keep up to date about any funding opportunities they release.