Who will be RNAmed’s next PhD generation?

With more than 750 applications from around the world for eleven advertised PhD positions, the RNAmed graduate program confirmed its growing international reputation as a highly attractive training environment for young scientists. Following an intensive selection process, 25 outstanding candidates were invited to a symposium in Würzburg to introduce themselves and present their research interests. Held on May 11, 2026, the event marked an important milestone for the program’s second funding period: the focus was on selecting future doctoral researchers and fostering scientific matchmaking with mentors from Würzburg, Regensburg, and Munich. Conversations with PhD students from the first funding period also provided opportunities for networking and the exchange of experiences.

After the opening remarks by program spokesperson Jörg Vogel, the current PhD students offered insights into the interdisciplinary structure of the program as well as its scientific and social activities.

A special highlight of the event was the keynote lecture by Julia Alterman (RNA Therapeutics Institute, USA), a member of RNAmed’s Scientific Advisory Board (SAB). In her talk, “Expanding the Reach of Therapeutic siRNAs,” she presented recent advances in the development of therapeutic siRNAs, ranging from chemical modifications to innovative strategies for targeted drug delivery within the body. The applications discussed include muscle growth, neurological diseases, and the rare disorder Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva (FOP). With her inspiring presentation, Julia Alterman provided an ideal transition to the candidates’ talks while also easing much of the participants’ initial nervousness.

In a series of short flash talks, the applicants introduced their scientific backgrounds, research experience, and personal motivation to work in the field of RNA-based medicine. The presentations were grouped into the thematic areas “Chemistry, RNA Modifications, Delivery & Formulation,” “Microbiology & CRISPR/Cas,” and “Molecular Principles of RNA & Therapeutic Small RNAs.” The subsequent discussions enabled intensive exchanges with principal investigators from a wide range of disciplines and formed an important basis for selecting the next generation of RNAmed PhD students.

Another special contribution came from Hans-Peter Vornlocher (Senior Advisor, Axolabs GmbH, Germany), also a member of RNAmed’s SAB. In his presentation, “An RNA Journey: Academia, Biotech, Pharma and Beyond,” he reflected on his career path from academic basic research to establish Axolabs, a leading contract research organization (CRO) specializing in nucleic acid and RNA therapeutics. His talk focused on the development, testing, and manufacturing of RNA-based medicines (including siRNA, mRNA, antisense oligonucleotides, and CRISPR technologies) through to clinical application. In addition, he offered valuable insights into career opportunities and shared personal experiences from both academia and industry.

The day concluded with a joint dinner in a relaxed atmosphere, accompanied by conversations about potential future collaborations within and beyond the RNAmed community.

Update: On June 18, 2026, an additional online symposium was held to provide an opportunity for participants who were unable to attend the event in May in person. The virtual format once again brought together a diverse group of outstanding international candidates, who showcased their research and expertise through a series of interesting presentations. Their contributions highlighted the breadth of talent and innovative ideas within the RNA community.

Over the coming weeks, decisions will be made regarding which of the invited candidates will receive an offer for a doctoral position.