Unuiversity of Western Sydney
NSW Vice-Chancellors' Committee
Media statement
NSW universities welcome NSW Government investment in world-leading RNA research
The NSW Vice-Chancellors' Committee (NSW VCC) has welcomed the NSW Government's announcement regarding the establishment of the NSW RNA Bioscience Alliance – a partnership across all NSW universities – and the provision of support for a $15 million NSW RNA Production and Research Network.
The Alliance and Network will work closely with a new $25 million RNA Institute which has been established by UNSW Sydney and also announced. Together, it is a significant boost to the State's mRNA research, development and local manufacturing capabilities.
Convener of the NSW VCC, Professor Barney Glover AO, said this is a major initial investment in RNA research and development for NSW, which is set to transform the State into a world-leading mRNA vaccine manufacturing hub.
"The NSW RNA Production and Research Network and the broader NSW RNA Bioscience Alliance will bring together top scientists and researchers from the state's leading universities, research institutes and hospitals to collaborate on RNA research and find therapeutic solutions for some of the toughest
health challenges facing us right now," said Professor Glover.
"The NSW VCC commends this initiative from the NSW Government, as well as the investment in the RNA Institute by UNSW Sydney. Together, it will create a strong, research-focussed RNA ecosystem and research workforce for NSW – something that is not only an immediate priority for our ongoing COVID-19 response, but will also lead to the creation of important new technologies and therapies to tackle other diseases and help protect the long-term health of our communities.
"It is our hope that this significant investment and collaboration between Government and the university sector will be a driver for future innovation and lead to a major vaccine producer establishing a base in NSW."
Professor Glover said NSW universities look forward to further announcements in the near future, following the consideration by Government of a business case to develop RNA facilities in NSW.
"Investments such as these are critical to future-proofing the social prosperity and economic productivity of NSW. Universities look forward to working closely with government and industry, to utilise and translate our collective research strengths to achieve real impact for the communities we
serve."
/Public Release. This material from the originating organization/author(s) might be of the point-in-time nature, and edited for clarity, style and length. Mirage.News does not take institutional positions or sides, and all views, positions, and conclusions expressed herein are solely those of the author(s).
