BioNTech extending its mRNA reach to Australia

Germany’s BioNTech (Nasdaq: BNTX), which leapt into the limelight from near obscurity through the development of the most successful COVID-19 vaccine (Comirnaty) with US pharma giant Pfizer (NYSE: PFE), has since been expanding its strong mRNA platform into other therapy areas and regions, demonstrating that it is not just a one trick pony.

Yesterday, BioNTech announced that it is partnering with the Australian State of Victoria to establish an mRNA research and innovation center to strengthen translational research for innovative medicine from discovery to delivery.

As part of the partnership, the parties will establish a research and innovation center in Melbourne to facilitate the transition of encouraging academic research into clinical development. BioNTech plans to set up a clinical scale end-to-end mRNA manufacturing facility based on its BioNTainer solution in Melbourne with the aim of supporting the design, manufacture and clinical testing of product candidates. Part of BioNTech’s global network, the facility is expected to attract interest from researchers locally, regionally and globally.