The government of Australian state Victoria has signed a deal with a Korean medical institute to work together on mRNA vaccine research. Some of the earliest vaccines approved for use against COVID-19, the Pfizer and Moderna shots, are based on mRNA technology. The vaccines are designed to teach the body’s cells to make a protein that will trigger an immune response, preparing the immune system for any exposure to the virus. The memorandum of understanding between mRNA Victoria and the Korean Health and Industry Development Institute, which is overseen by the country’s health department, will see both parties work together on joint early-stage RNA research, clinical trials, and manufacturing investment. While South Korea has specialised bio-manufacturing facilities, Victoria has an edge in vaccine research and development. The South Korean government has pledged $2.4 billion to become a major global COVID-19 manufacturing centre by 2025, while the Victorian government is aiming …