RNA Symposium 2025
Join us in a one-day event dedicated to advancing RNA research and awareness in New Zealand.
The event coincides with the availability of our international Science Advisory and Steering Group members, providing a fantastic opportunity for engagement and knowledge-sharing. The enthusiasm and turnout for this event reaffirm the growing interest and importance of RNA research in New Zealand and beyond.
2026 Ferrier Public Lecture
Professor Richard Payne delivered the 2026 Ferrier Public Lecture on 1 April 2026, continuing the proud tradition of this annual event held in honour of the late Professor Robin Ferrier.
Key speakers
Programme
Session 1
| Time | Topic | Speaker |
|---|---|---|
| 9–9.10 am | RNA Platform to date | Gary Evans, Kjesten Wiig, (RNA Platform) |
| 9.10–9.30 am | Biologics Innovation Facility (BIF) and training programmes | A/Prof. Andrew Care, University of Technology Sydney (UTS) |
| 9.30–9.55 am | Update from the Central Production Facility team | Jochem Vink, Malaghan Institute of Medical Research |
| 10–10.25 am | mRNA biomanufacturing in focus— Overcoming challenges, driving innovation | Prof Chantal Pichon, Université d'Orléans |
| 10.30–11 am | Morning tea |
Session 2
| Time | Topic | Speaker |
|---|---|---|
| 11–11.30 am | Next generation mRNA therapies | Prof Archa Fox, UWA Medical School |
| 11.35–11.50 am | Platform trials | Dr Tom Hills (ADHB) |
| 11.55–12.10 pm | Genomics Aotearoa 2.0 | Prof. Peter Dearden, University of Otago |
| 12.10–12.30 pm | mRNA therapies in oncology | Dr Sarah Herridge, BioNTech |
| 12.30–1.30 pm | Lunch |
Session 3
| Time | Topic | Speaker |
|---|---|---|
| 1.30–1.45 pm | Pilar intro and welcome for Mark | Will Kelton, University of Waikato |
| 1.45–2.15 pm | Design of mRNAs to ensure maximum product activity and minimum off-target product(s) from reduced dose | Mark Smales, University of Kent |
| 2.15–2.35 pm | Science and design for nucleic acid-based vaccine and adjuvant | Prof. Ken Ishii, UTOPIA |
| 2.35–3 pm | Flagship presentation (Universal flu vaccine, Staph Vaccine) | Dr Lisa Connor, Dr. Fiona Radcliff |
| 3–3.30 pm | Afternoon tea |
Session 4
| Time | Topic | Speaker |
|---|---|---|
| 3.30–4.05 pm | US Biotech and RNA environment | Dr Obadiah Plante, Kinvard Bio |
| 4.05–4.20 pm | mRNA stability versus RNA stability | Associate Professor Paul Gardner, University of Otago |
| 4.20–4.35 pm | QC advancements in RNA environment | Dr Susanna Chan, Ferrier Research Institute |
| 4.35–5 pm | Trials and triumphs in advancing and scaling up vaccines and other RNA therapeutic development | Prof Pall Thordarson, Debbie Burnett UNSW RNA Institute |
| 5.30–6.30 pm | Networking—drinks and nibbles | Pullman hotel |
Event contact
Katy Kelly
Please contact Katy Kelly, the symposium organiser, with any questions.
Programme coordinator—RNA Platform
Ferrier Research Institute, Gracefield, Lower Hutt
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