mRNA Design and Optimisation in Theory: Essentials - PDM1232

This fully online, self-paced short course provides training in mRNA medicine design and optimisation, equipping participants with the knowledge, skills, and tools needed to build robust and fit-for-purpose mRNA constructs. The four online modules are designed to empower participants to critically evaluate design options and apply optimisation strategies rationally in the development of next-generation mRNA vaccines and therapeutics. They will learn how to optimise all key components of the mRNA construct, including untranslated regions (UTRs) and coding sequences (CDS) and how these selections directly affect mRNA stability, translational efficiency and manufacturability. The modules also cover the design foundations of next-generation mRNA modalities, including self-amplifying RNA (saRNA) and circular RNA (circ(RNA), highlighting how design constraints and optimisation strategies differ across modalities.

At a glance

Fees

A$480

Who should attend

This short course is positioned at an intermediate level. It is expected that the participants will have foundational knowledge of mRNA biology or relevant training in (but not limited to) molecular biology, biochemistry, chemistry, pharmaceutical science and/or biotechnology. The training is particularly suited to those in industry or academia who are involved in, or transitioning into, roles related to the design and optimisation of mRNA-based vaccines and therapeutics.

What you will learn

  1. Apply knowledge of mRNA structure and function to analyse the mechanism of action, therapeutic applications and development challenges associated with mRNA medicines.
  2. Analyse and evaluate sequence, structural and regulatory features that influence mRNA expression, immunogenicity, and stability.
  3. Justify the selection of appropriate RNA modality (mRNA, saRNA, circRNA) based on therapeutic intent and development constraints.
  4. Critically evaluate different delivery carriers and the key factors that inform the selection and design of a suitable carrier for a given therapeutic application.

Program structure

The short course is self-paced and completed online. It includes four online modules and assessments that will take approximately 7 hours to complete.

Are there any prerequisites for this short course?

Yes - The prerequisites of this short course are some foundational knowledge of mRNA or background training in (but not exclusively) molecular biology, biochemistry, chemistry, biology, pharmacology and/or pharmaceutical science.

Additionally, to get the most out of the content and activities, participants should have English proficiency. All short course content is delivered in English.

What payment methods are accepted?

The platform supports multiple payment methods via Credit Card and Invoice. You have the option to pay individually or request an invoice to register multiple participants.

Will I receive a certificate or digital badge after the short course?

Upon completion of the short course you will be issued with a digital badge. Digital badges demonstrate your capabilities, enhancing your employability and professional profile in today's competitive job market.

Designed to be shared across social media platforms, online portfolios, and resumes, the digital badge will ensure that your achievements are recognised and respected worldwide. A prospective employer can click on your digital credential to view all the details of your achievement.

Is there technical support available if I have questions during the short course?

You can access technical support via the chat function. Click the chat icon in the bottom right corner of your screen to contact our team.

Will I have access to short course materials after completing the short course?

You will have access to the short course content for an extra three months from the short course end date.

What is the refund policy if I can no longer complete the short course?

There are various options available to you if you can no longer complete the short course, including refunds and credits:

  • You are eligible to receive 100% refund of the program cost if cancelled at least 28 calendar days before the start date of the program.
  • You are eligible to receive 50% refund of the program cost if cancelled at least 14 days before the start date of the program.
  • A refund will not be offered if cancelled less than 14 days before the start date of the program.
  • A participant who chooses to cancel their registration can credit their fee to another cohort of the same program within two years of the original registration.

How will this short course benefit my career or professional development?

The mRNA industry is emerging with many potential job opportunities, particularly in the research sector. As the different applications of mRNA medicines are explored, this creates demand for professionals equipped with the knowledge to design mRNA medicines.

The knowledge and skills gained in this short course will equip participants with the ability to perform research, development and formulation roles, increase their capability to develop new mRNA avenues, and design and optimise the mRNA medicines required to fulfill these ventures.

Are there any technical requirements that I need to be aware of?

Participants need to have access to the internet and a computer to complete the short course.

How is my personal information handled and protected?

Monash University values the privacy of every individual’s personal and health information and is committed to the protection of this information.

Personal and health information collected by Monash is handled in accordance with the Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014 (Vic), the Health Records Act 2001 (Vic) and other privacy laws as applicable. Further information on this can be found here.

My organisation would like to have a dedicated run of the short course for a group of our staff only, is this possible?

Yes, please email us at mrnamedicines.workforcetraining@monash.edu to discuss.