Variants weaken current COVID vaccines because they target parts of the spike protein that mutate. This project uses nanoparticles displaying engineered versions of the conserved RBD region to steer the immune system toward making broadly protective antibodies. Computational design helps optimize immune targeting, potentially eliminating yearly boosters and protecting against future coronaviruses.

This research focuses on strengthening fragile mRNA molecules to create vaccines that are more stable, effective, and easier to distribute. By modifying mRNA structure to resist degradation, vaccines could be stored at higher temperatures and maintain potency, expanding access—especially in low-resource regions—and improving global readiness for future pandemics.

This research aims to solve the major weakness of mRNA vaccines—the need for constant cold storage—by packaging them inside ultra-stable protein “boxes” called encapsulins. These naturally robust containers protect mRNA in extreme environments. A working prototype now exists, offering the potential for globally distributable, freezer-free vaccines that remain effective anywhere.