R3: RNA, READINESS and RESPONSE

21st July 2021

We need a global network of ‘living’ biofoundries.
Distributed, multi-product, RNA-based manufacturing capabilities will provide increased access to diverse biologics and sustainable pandemic response.

CEPI (Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations) and Wellcome Leap are collaborating on establishing a global network of ‘living’ biofoundries. Distributed, multi-product, RNA-based manufacturing capabilities will provide increased access to diverse biologics and sustainable pandemic response. Wellcome Leap builds bold, unconventional programs, and funds them at scale. Their programs aim to deliver breakthroughs in human health over 5 – 10 years and demonstrate seemingly impossible results on seemingly impossible timelines.
 
https://wellcomeleap.org/r3
 
They have a $60M jointly funded program and are soliciting abstracts and proposals for work over three (3) years (with a potential additional one-year option) to either develop the platform, develop products, or demonstrate the platform implementation.
 
Proposers should clearly relate work in these thrust areas to one or more of the program goals, but are not required to provide both platform technologies and end-to-end demonstrations. Synergies among performers will be facilitated by Wellcome Leap.
 
Upload your abstract and submit your application before August 13 at 11:59pm ET.

Global Biofoundries Alliance

If you are interested in getting involved with biofoundries, message the Global Biofoundries Alliance (GBA) directly. Here is a link to their contact page: https://biofoundries.org/contact
 
RNA technology experts are in university molecular biology departments. Look at the GBA members list and consider expanding the alliance to include your chosen university: https://biofoundries.org/members
 
The Global Biofoundries Alliance is based at Imperial College London. It is a network of institutions that shares knowledge, infrastructure and expertise. The GBA objectives are to:

• “develop, promote, and support non-commercial biofoundries established around the world.”
• “intensify collaboration and communication among biofoundries.”
• “collectively develop responses to technological, operational, and other types of common challenges.”
• “enhance visibility, impact and sustainability of non-commercial biofoundries.”
• “explore globally relevant and societally impactful grand challenge collaborative projects.”

RQA Members can watch the recent Coffee Morning recording here

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