RNA & Healthcare Futures

RNA & Healthcare Futures

What role will mRNA technology play in the future of Canadian healthcare?: A documentary screening and panel discussion for the health care community

In person attendance: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/rna-healthcare-futures-tickets-1636254805169

Virtual attendance: https://ubc.zoom.us/j/62501277848?pwd=4IHgNcEkqOFulgB7HLajIATkPqL3Ip.1

Asynchronous access to the documentary will be provided prior to the event for remote attendees.

As misinformation, polarization, and political partisanship around mRNA technologies intensify, how can healthcare professionals navigate discussing mRNA vaccines and immunotherapies that are poised to transform how we prevent and treat diseases in Canada?

Healthcare workers and the broader scientific and biotech community are invited to an exclusive screening of The Messenger, a documentary tracing the origin story of mRNA technology, a 30-year journey from discovery to a critical role during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The screening will be followed by a panel featuring mRNA pioneers and leading experts in public health, medical anthropology, clinical practice, and regulatory affairs. Panellists will demystify recent advances in mRNA science and engage the audience in dialogue about how mRNA vaccines and therapeutics are poised to transform disease prevention and treatment. The profound implications that mRNA technology will have on the future of healthcare, with a focus in Canada, will also be discussed.

Learning Objectives:

1. 1. 1. Demystify the science and origin story of mRNA technology
      2. Provide insights into recent advancements in mRNA technologies and their potential to advance healthcare practice in Canada
      3. Explore potential barriers hindering RNA-based medicines—including public trust, information quality and partisan politics —and discuss strategies to navigate these challenges.
      4. Share strategies to support the healthcare community in effectively communicating with patients about RNA-based medicines.

Presented in collaboration between the Bridge Research Consortium and the University of British Columbia’s RNA & Formulation Core. This event will be hosted on November 20, 2025, from 5:00-7:30pm, at The Djavad Mowafaghian Cinema.