Saudi Research Team Awarded Prestigious Moderna Fellowship Grant for Vaccine Development
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Jeddah – In a groundbreaking achievement, a joint research team from King Abdulaziz University and Jazan University has been awarded the distinguished Moderna Fellowship to develop and localize a vaccine for Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV).
This collaborative team, consisting of researchers from both Saudi universities, has earned this recognition from Moderna, a leading American biotechnology company renowned for its advancements in mRNA technology. Their research focuses on developing a vaccine for MERS-CoV, a coronavirus first identified in Saudi Arabia in 2012. Despite ongoing efforts, an approved vaccine for MERS-CoV remains unavailable.
The three-year fellowship includes comprehensive support, training, technical assistance, and opportunities for collaboration. It aims to advance local vaccine manufacturing within Saudi Arabia using mRNA technology, aligning with the country’s goals for self-sufficiency in healthcare and scientific research.
Dr. Abdullah Alqaisi, a virology and vaccines researcher, head of the Emerging and Endemic Virus Research Unit, associate professor at the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, and director of the Health Research Center at Jazan University, will serve as the fellow. Professor Anwar Hashem, professor at the College of Medicine, head of the Vaccines and Immunotherapy Unit, and director of King Fahd Medical Research Center at King Abdulaziz University, will supervise the research.
“This achievement underscores the excellence of Saudi scientists and their growing influence in virology, epidemiology, and vaccine development,” said a university spokesperson. “Recognition from Moderna is a testament to the quality of research emerging from our institutions and the critical role of Saudi expertise in addressing global health challenges.”
The Moderna Fellowship highlights the impact of collaborative research between Saudi universities, showcasing the potential of academic partnerships in fields crucial to public health and technology. This success reinforces Saudi Arabia’s commitment to advancing scientific knowledge and innovation, particularly in healthcare, in alignment with Vision 2030 goals. |
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