RNA technology, first widely used to develop COVID-19 vaccines, could help treat cancer, genetic conditions and autoimmune diseases.
UNSW Sydney is leading a major state-wide initiative to build sovereign RNA research and workforce capability, with the launch of the $17.6 million NSW RNA Research and Training Network ( NSW-RRTN ).
The NSW-RRTN, administered by UNSW Sydney in a collaboration between 12 NSW and ACT universities, is a coordinated initiative to support research, training and strategic programs in RNA science and technology.
It is a key component of the NSW Government's $119 million RNA R&D Program, aimed at developing a world-class RNA ecosystem and supporting a pipeline of pilot projects.
Director of the UNSW RNA Institute, and the Interim Director of the new NSW-RRTN Professor Pall Thordarson, said the University was proud to lead this ambitious network.
"The NSW-RRTN will ensure researchers and students are equipped with the skills and partnerships, including with industry, needed to deliver RNA-based solutions to some of society's most urgent health and biosecurity challenges."
NSW builds RNA expertise
Minister for Innovation, Science and Technology Anoulack Chanthivong said NSW was taking an important step forward in establishing itself as a centre of RNA research excellence.
"The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated the ability of RNA technology to rapidly develop life-saving therapies and highlighted the importance of NSW establishing capabilities in this critical area," he said.
"The new Network will ensure that NSW maintains its leadership in RNA research and biomanufacturing, translating research into impactful real-world solutions.
"By enabling NSW-based businesses and researchers to progress their early-stage innovations toward commercial readiness, the program aims to attract future investment and enhance local manufacturing."
Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research & Enterprise, Professor Bronwyn Fox, said the network would help deliver real benefits to the community.
"UNSW's involvement in the NSW-RRTN reflects our commitment to translating world-class research into solutions that improve lives," Prof. Fox said.
"By helping to build a connected RNA ecosystem across the state, we are contributing to the development of new therapies, strengthening biosecurity, and creating a highly skilled workforce that will drive health and economic outcomes for the community."
Supporting research, training and industry collaboration
Other key elements of the RNA Ecosystem include the $96 million RNA Research and Manufacturing Facility, currently under construction at Macquarie University and due for completion next year, and RNA Australia, a company formed in 2023 to oversee operation of the Facility and act as a 'front-door' for RNA in NSW.
The NSW-RRTN will ensure researchers and students are equipped with the skills and partnerships, including with industry, needed to deliver RNA-based solutions to some of society's most urgent health and biosecurity challenges
The NSW-RRTN will play a critical role in building the research and talent pipeline necessary to maximise the effectiveness of the RNA Facility. It will oversee a collaborative research program spanning human and animal therapeutics, vaccines and biosecurity applications; a training program to develop a highly skilled RNA workforce; and a strategic fund to strengthen partnerships between universities and industry in key emerging areas.
NSW Chief Scientist & Engineer Professor Hugh Durrant-Whyte said the initiative would bring research and industry together.
"The NSW-RRTN will manage a Strategic Fund which focuses on merit-based, collaborative initiatives across the emerging RNA Sector," Prof. Durrant-Whyte said.
"This will upskill researchers and ensure successful commercial outcomes for startups undertaking innovative work in RNA therapeutics and technologies."
