BioNTech Australia is pleased to announce Prof. Linda Wakim, Doherty Institute, University of Melbourne, as the inaugural recipient of the BioNTech mRNA Innovator Program. This program recognizes Prof. Wakim’s outstanding contributions to immunology and respiratory infection research, providing support for her mRNA research.
Prof Wakim’s awarded project focuses on the development of a novel mRNA-based vaccine targeting multidrug-resistant bacterial infections, an area of significant unmet medical need. Her research combines established preclinical infection models with mRNA approaches aimed at eliciting strong and durable cellular immune responses. The award from BioNTech Australia’s mRNA Innovator Program will enable further refinement of these approaches through access to BioNTech’s research‑grade mRNA production capabilities and expertise in mRNA vaccine development. Prof Linda Wakim will receive AUD 50,000 in support, comprising supply of research-grade mRNA material from BioNTech Australia’s Bundoora, Victoria R&D production facility and a cash component for project-specific research funding.
