Hongene has appointed leading lipid nanoparticle (LNP) researcher Pieter Cullis to its scientific advisory board, reinforcing the company’s commitment to next-generation RNA drug development.

Cullis, best known for his foundational work in LNP drug delivery systems, played a central role in developing the platform behind the Pfizer-BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine. His contributions have been pivotal to the advancement of both mRNA and siRNA-based therapies, several of which are now FDA-approved.

Hongene, a global CDMO specialising in nucleic acid raw materials and RNA medicines, says Cullis will advise on its proprietary delivery and optimisation technologies, supporting the expansion of its RNA capabilities.

“I am excited to join Hongene’s scientific advisory board and contribute to its mission of providing access to RNA medicines for all people, regardless of their income or where they live,” said Cullis. “I look forward to collaborating with the team to enable this.”

He joins an existing board of scientific advisors that includes John Maraganore, Phil Baran, and Masad J Damha—each recognised for their contributions to RNA therapeutics, chemistry, and nucleic acid research. The group will help guide Hongene’s innovation strategy and product development pipeline.

“We are honoured to welcome Dr Cullis to our advisory board,” said Wei Jiang, chief executive officer of Hongene. “His scientific contributions and thought leadership in LNP delivery systems are unparalleled and will significantly boost our work in RNA therapeutics.”

The appointment comes amid continued momentum in the RNA field, with lipid nanoparticle delivery remaining a key enabler of next-generation medicines. Hongene is focused on delivering vertically integrated CDMO support for RNA developers, from early-stage development through to commercial supply.