mRNA Design and Optimisation | Essentials
Summary
This short course provides applied training in mRNA medicine design and optimisation, with a strong focus on the rationale, metrics, and tools used to build robust mRNA vaccine constructs. Through a combination of structured online pre-learning and instructor-led workshops, participants develop essential skills in optimising all mRNA components including untranslated regions (UTRs) and coding sequences (CDS). The short course explicitly links sequence level parameters to functional outcomes, demonstrating how informed design choices improve mRNA stability, translational efficiency, and manufacturability. In addition, the short course explores the structural and design principles of next-generation mRNA modalities, including self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) and circular RNA (circRNA), and discusses how design considerations differ across modalities. Participants are introduced to publicly available computational and web-based tools that support mRNA construct design, alongside an overview of how AI-driven models (e.g. for UTR and CDS optimisation) are emerging as powerful complements to conventional design strategies. Worked examples and real-world case studies reinforce key concepts, enabling participants to critically evaluate design decisions and apply them to the development of robust, high performance mRNA vaccines and therapeutics.
| Format | Blended learning. Online self-paced pre-learning and in-person training |
|---|---|
| Location | Monash University, Clayton campus, Victoria, Australia |
| Duration | Online: 3 hours In-person: 3 days |
| Fees | AUD 2,995 incl. GST |
| Target Audience | The mRNA Design and Optimisation | Essentials short course is positioned at an intermediate level. Participants are expected to have foundational knowledge of mRNA biology or relevant training in (but not limited to) molecular biology, biochemistry, chemistry, pharmaceutical science, bioengineering, biotechnology, computational biology, data science, or related life science and engineering fields. The short course is designed for professionals working across the mRNA development pipeline, including research and discovery scientists and data- or computational-focused experts seeking to apply design principles to mRNA medicines. It is particularly suited to those in industry or academia who are involved in, or transitioning into, roles related to the design, optimisation, manufacturing readiness, and delivery of mRNA-based vaccines and therapeutics. |
Highlights
This short course consists of online pre-learning modules and face-to-face sessions. Participants complete three online pre-learning modules at their own pace to support the learnings that will be presented during the in-person sessions. In these sessions our expert facilitators will discuss and present the topics. They will then lead the participants through different workshops that include case studies and activities to enable consolidation of the learnings and opportunities for knowledge application.
Enrolment into this short course is subject to Terms and Conditions.
