VACCINE RESEARCH UNIT

VACCINE RESEARCH UNIT

The Vaccine Research Unit pioneers dual vaccine technology platforms integrating Generally Regarded As Safe (GRAS) bacterial delivery systems and mRNA vaccine technology to advance Malaysia’s preparedness for future pandemics. Our goal is to develop accessible, stable, and rapidly deployable vaccines that overcome cold chain limitations and enhance national self-reliance in vaccine production.

Supported by the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) and the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation (MOSTI), the Unit operates two laboratories — the Grade D Laboratory-Scale Clean Room for GRAS-based vaccines and the Noyori Laboratory for mRNA vaccine and microbial technology — forming a complete innovation ecosystem from novel microbial expression to nucleic acid design. 

• Grade D Laboratory-Scale Clean Room

The team is currently innovating a novel vaccine platform utilizing organism classified as Generally Regarded As Safe (GRAS). The primary aim is to ensure the vaccine’s availability in developing countries. Our team is dedicated to streamlining the platform’s design, with a focus on creating conveniences. We intend to enhance the vaccine’s stability at room temperature without the need for a cold chain. This approach not only simplifies storage but also aligns with environmentally friendly practices. Our lab also provides opportunities for individuals seeking training or knowledge acquisition in the realm of vaccines. Funded by the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) and Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation (MOSTI), we successfully developed the vaccine platform against SARS CoV-2, Acinetobacter baumannii, and dengue virus.

Laboratory lead: Professor Sazaly Abu Bakar

Email: sazaly@um.edu.my

• Noyori Laboratory (mRNA Research and Microbial Technology)

The Noyori Laboratory focuses on advancing mRNA vaccine technology and building capacity in the design, development, and translational application of this platform. Integrating reverse vaccinology with a strong foundation in fundamental vaccinology, the laboratory provides both technical training and hands-on experience in all stages of mRNA vaccine development — from antigen discovery and mRNA construct design to formulation, delivery optimization, and process development using microbial technologies.

Through active collaboration with international partners and training entities, the students will be equipped with insights to real exposure to global vaccine innovation environments and best practices. The Noyori team aims to contribute to the ecosystem that enables trainees and researchers to gain skills and contributes to strengthening Malaysia’s long-term capacity for sustainable mRNA vaccine production and biomanufacturing self-reliance.

Person In Charge: Assoc. Prof. Ts. Dr. Lee Hai Yen

Email: leehaiyen@um.edu.my