- 1 year ago
16 May 2025
Applications have opened for the Moderna 2025 Australia Fellowship Program providing an extraordinary opportunity for Australian-based researchers interested in tackling unique health problems to secure generous funding from the mRNA juggernaut, along with mentorship and hands-on learning opportunities.
Now in its third year, the Moderna program targets outstanding Australian researchers working on pioneering concepts with the potential to advance mRNA medicines.
The program welcomes proposals from a wide range of disciplines and is particularly interested in projects aligned to specific areas of strategic importance, including novel approaches to disease prevention and treatment, emerging infectious diseases, sustainable manufacturing, and the intersection of mRNA technologies with digital innovation and society.
“The success of this program underscores the exceptional talent in Australia’s scientific community,” said Dr Felicia Pradera, Director, Regional Research Centre for Respiratory Medicine and Tropical Diseases.
“We are committed to fostering the next generation of researchers and equipping them with the tools, mentorship, and resources needed to drive ground-breaking innovation in mRNA science.”
The Fellowship offers an immersive learning and development experience, including training and education in key areas essential for mRNA medicine R&D.
In addition to a grant of up to $250,000 per year for two years, successful fellows receive expert mentorship, hands-on learning opportunities, and collaboration with Moderna’s world-class global R&D teams to enhance industry expertise.
The curriculum covers regulatory sciences, translational research, pharmaceutical development, project management, and leadership skills.
This will be delivered through experiential learning, online courses via Moderna University, and in-person engagement at the Regional Research Centre for Respiratory Medicines and Tropical Diseases in Melbourne.
The 2024 fellowships were awarded to Dr Ernest Moles from the Children’s Cancer Institute and Dr Felix Rizzuto from UNSW Sydney.
Dr Moles is developing an RNA-based therapy using CAR T cells to target high-grade gliomas, a fast-growing and hard-to-treat brain cancer. Dr Rizzuto’s research focuses on improving RNA therapies and vaccines by optimising delivery within cells, enhancing efficiency and reducing production costs for a range of diseases, including cancer.
Applications for the 2025 fellowships are open from 15 May 2025 until July 15 2025. For details on how to apply, click here.
©MedNews 2025