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Catalysing the Future of RNA Science

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Welcome to

The National Initiative for RNA Biology & Its Applications (NIRBA) is Singapore’s strategic national effort to build globally leading capabilities in RNA biology, driving innovation and applications that address critical health challenges. Supported by the National Research Foundation (NRF) and partner institutions, National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), and Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A^*STAR), NIRBA is poised to transform Singapore into a global hub for RNA research and its wide-ranging applications to further our understanding of RNA biology, create advancements in research and innovative applications.

Professor Ashok Venkitaraman

Executive Director, National Initiative for RNA Biology & Its Applications (NIRBA)

Executive Director’s Message

Welcome to the National Initiative for RNA Biology & Its Applications (NIRBA)!

NIRBA is a pioneering national program dedicated to advancing RNA biology research. Established with support from the National Research Foundation (NRF) under the Prime Minister’s Office, Singapore, we unite experts across multiple disciplines to address critical challenges in RNA science and Its applications. In collaboration with Singapore’s leading research institutions — the National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), and the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A^*STAR) — NIRBA underscores Singapore’s commitment to cutting-edge research with tangible benefits for human health and the bioeconomy. Our goal is to position Singapore as a global leader in RNA biology research.

The establishment of NIRBA comes at a transformative moment in RNA biology, a field that has rapidly emerged as one of the most dynamic and impactful in modern science. From revolutionizing vaccine technology during the COVID-19 pandemic to enabling novel treatments for previously untreatable diseases, RNA-based innovations are reshaping medicine and biotechnology. Beyond vaccines, RNA biology holds immense potential for breakthroughs in disease treatment, personalized medicine, food security, and sustainable biotechnology. However, realizing these advances depends on a deep and fundamental understanding of RNA biology. NIRBA is committed to bridging scientific gaps and leveraging Singapore’s strengths — particularly its unique focus on the genetic diversity of Asian populations — to enhance healthcare, improve lives, and strengthen economic resilience.

At the heart of NIRBA is a commitment to world-class foundational RNA research. Our initiative is structured around dedicated Innovation Clusters, each addressing a key challenge in RNA biology:

Understanding the Impact of Asian Genetic Diversity on the RNA Biology of Disease: Investigating how genetic variations in Asian populations influence RNA biology and disease mechanisms, paving the way for personalised diagnostics and therapeutics.
Exploring RNA Modifications and Host Immunity: Deciphering the intricate relationship between RNA modifications and immune responses to inform the development of novel therapies.
Optimizing RNA Delivery and Distribution: Studying the biological mechanisms governing RNA delivery and intracellular localization to enhance the precision of RNA-based treatments.
Advancing RNA Pharmacology and Personalised Medicine: Refining the pharmacological properties of RNA therapeutics, ensuring their safety and efficacy across diverse genetic backgrounds.

Through these clusters, NIRBA drives both innovation and translational research, supporting key national priorities such as PRECISE (precision medicine), NATi (RNA therapeutics and the RNA foundry), and PrepVax (pandemic preparedness). These efforts will ensure Singapore remains at the forefront of RNA science and Its applications.

NIRBA is more than a research initiative — it is a collaborative platform that brings together leading minds from academia, healthcare, and industry, both locally and globally. By fostering strategic partnerships, we are building a dynamic ecosystem where researchers, clinicians, and innovators can work together to push the boundaries of RNA science. Our research is not only foundational but also translational, ensuring tangible benefits for society.

As we embark on this transformative journey, I invite you to explore our website to learn more about our mission, research focus, and opportunities for collaboration. Together, we can pioneer solutions that redefine health, biotechnology, and sustainability for future generations.