mRNA Medicines: Fundamentals - PDM1226

Messenger RNA (mRNA) is revolutionising treatment options offered by modern medicine through their potential to deliver fast, precise and adaptable therapies for various diseases. This online introductory short course provides a comprehensive and simple overview of mRNA technologies for newcomers to the mRNA industry. Through engaging with the online content, participants will explore the structure and biological function of mRNA and dissect the workflow governing mRNA manufacture. In this short course, participants will also investigate the applications of mRNA in preventative vaccines, therapeutic cancer vaccines and protein replacement therapy, and uncover the challenges faced in the development of mRNA medicines. This short course will work to bridge the gap between science and real-world applications, providing insight into the present and future of mRNA as a game-changing technology in medicine.

At a glance

Fees

A$75

Who should attend

This short course is designed to provide a comprehensive and accessible introduction to mRNA-based medicines. It aims to explain the science behind mRNA technology and how it is manufactured, as well as exploring its transformative role in modern healthcare. By the end of the short course, participants will have a clear understanding of how mRNA functions as a medical tool and its potential to revolutionise disease prevention and treatment.

What you will learn

  • Recognise how mRNA medicines leverage the mechanism of action of mRNA to synthesise proteins in host cells.
  • Identify the diverse applications of mRNA in medicine, including vaccines, cancer immunotherapies, and treatments for genetic disorders.
  • Recall how mRNA medicines are designed and manufactured.
  • Identify the advantages of mRNA medicines and the potential growth areas for this platform.

Program structure

The short course includes online modules and assessments. The short course can be completed at the individual pace of the participants.

Are there any prerequisites for this course?

Yes - It is recommended that participants are familiar with foundational concepts and terminologies within biology. Training or experience in biology, chemistry, physiology, pharmacology, or a related field is recommended. Prior knowledge of mRNA is not required. 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 course?

Upon completion of an end of short course survey, you will be issued with a formal certificate of completion.

Is there technical support available if I have questions during the 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 course materials after completing the course?

The short course will be open for three months, during which you will have access to short course materials. You must complete the assessments within the three month period in order to be eligible for a certificate.

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

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

  • You are eligible to receive 100 per cent 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 per cent refund of the program cost if cancelled at least 14 days before the start date of the program;
  • A refund of the program cost 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 for a program, can credit their registration fee to another cohort of the same program within two years of the original registration.

How will this course benefit my career or professional development?

Messenger RNA (mRNA) is revolutionising modern medicine by enabling fast, precise, and adaptable treatments for various diseases. The pharmaceutical sector has seen significant investment in mRNA medicines in recent years and a workforce knowledgeable and skilled in mRNA technology is required to sustain its development. This short course provides a comprehensive yet easy-to-understand overview of mRNA technology, providing participants with important foundational knowledge and context for how mRNA is used across the pharmaceutical industry. The knowledge gained in this short course will enable participants to bridge the gap between science and real-world application, providing the foundational knowledge required for participants to pursue roles or further education in the mRNA space.

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.