CEPI and Pasteur Network partner to advance regional vaccine R&D

Norway-based Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) and the Pasteur Network (PN), in Paris, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to expand collaboration on epidemic and pandemic preparedness, vaccine research, manufacturing and innovation.

CEPI and PN will work together to enhance regional capacity in vaccine research and development, clinical trials, biosafety and biosecurity, laboratory science, and manufacturing in support of equitable vaccine access.

The partnership ultimately seeks to advance shared objectives in epidemic and pandemic preparedness for rapid and equitable access to vaccines during future public health emergencies. It will bring together CEPI’s vaccine development expertise and networks and the Pasteur Network’s strengths in global disease surveillance and locally embedded research capacity, particularly in the Global South.

The MoU establishes a framework for potential collaboration across priority areas, including:

• Epidemiology and data science: enhancing modelling, analytics, and early-warning platforms.
• Laboratory research and innovations: leveraging pre-clinical and laboratory networks to support vaccine testing and development.
• Clinical trials: expanding capacity for Phase II/III studies in disease-endemic regions.
• Biosecurity: strengthening safe laboratory practices and outbreak containment readiness.
• Process development and manufacturing: advancing technology transfer, mRNA vaccine capabilities, and scalable manufacturing networks.
• Quality: broadening collaboration with Pasteur Network across all Good Practice disciplines.
• Preparedness and response: supporting the execution of 100 Days Mission exercises and sharing lessons learned.

Image caption- Dr Richard Hatchett, CEPI’s Chief Executive Officer (L) and Dr Rebecca Grais, Pasteur Network’s Executive Director (R)