World leaders in mRNA visit Peter Mac
25 October 2023
Peter Mac has played host to representatives from one of the world’s leading biotechnology companies, BioNTech.
CEO and co-Founder, Professor Uğur Şahin, and Chief Medical Officer and co-Founder, Professor Özlem Türeci, spoke to Peter Mac staff and guests about the company’s work to develop and optimise the use of mRNA science to treat diseases such as cancer, COVID-19, malaria and tuberculosis.
Peter Mac Acting Chief Executive, Karen Fox, said it was inspiring to hear about the advancements being made in the use of mRNA technology and how these relate to cancer treatment.
“BioNTech has shown its visionary leadership in the field of biotechnology and has made substantial contributions to the world of science and medicine,” Ms Fox said.
“There is some incredible work being done to advance immunotherapy technologies for the treatment of a range of serious diseases and the opportunity to learn more about the potential of ground-breaking new precision cancer immunotherapies was very exciting.
“It was also a privilege to be able to share the work of some of Peter Mac’s most impactful researchers and to showcase the new gene and cellular therapy manufacturing facility, which is unique in the Asia-Pacific region.
“On behalf of Peter Mac I want to thank our colleagues at mRNA Victoria for their work in bringing BioNTech to visit our Parkville site. In particular, Peter Mac thanks Dr Amanda Caples, Chair of mRNA Victoria’s Science Advisory Group and Victoria’s Lead Scientist, mRNA Victoria’s Chief Executive, Michael Kapel, and Chief Investment Officer, Phoebe Dunn.
“We look forward to building on these partnerships to help us drive cancer research discovery and to help ensure we can deliver the most outstanding and contemporary cancer care to our patients,” she said.
