SK bioscience, MSD, and Hilleman Laboratories Drive Ebola Vaccine Development

SK bioscience, in collaboration with MSD and Hilleman Laboratories, is advancing the development of a vaccine for the Zaire ebolavirus, supported by a significant funding agreement from the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI). Announced on January 22, 2026, this partnership allows CEPI to allocate up to USD 30 million to MSD, which will channel these resources to its development partners, primarily SK bioscience and Hilleman Laboratories.

The collaboration focuses on enhancing an existing Zaire ebolavirus vaccine that has received World Health Organization (WHO) prequalification. The primary objective is to optimize the manufacturing process, which currently presents logistical challenges due to its requirement for ultra-low temperature storage. These complexities are especially problematic in remote areas that experience outbreaks, such as parts of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Hilleman Laboratories will lead the clinical development of the upgraded vaccine, while SK bioscience will work with IDT Biologika to refine the manufacturing process of the drug substance and its associated product. Together, the teams aim to improve the vaccine’s yield and thermostability, ultimately making it more affordable and accessible in low- and middle-income countries.

Dr. Richard Hatchett, CEO of CEPI, emphasized the significance of this collaboration, stating, “In a single decade the world has transformed Ebola from a global emergency to a disease that can be stopped in its tracks. CEPI’s support will help to enable a sustainable and accessible supply of MSD’s Zaire ebolavirus vaccine for years to come at a more affordable price.” This funding deal unites longstanding partners of CEPI with those of MSD to strengthen global defenses against one of the deadliest pathogens.

Jaeyong Ahn, CEO of SK bioscience, highlighted the importance of global collaboration in combating infectious diseases such as Ebola. He noted, “Through this CEPI-supported partnership, SK bioscience will continue to play a critical role in improving Zaire ebolavirus vaccine manufacturing and supply, contributing meaningfully to global health preparedness.”

Recent outbreaks of Zaire ebolavirus have underscored the ongoing risk posed by the disease, which has a survival rate of approximately 50%. These outbreaks demonstrate the urgent need for effective vaccines, particularly in regions with limited healthcare access.

SK bioscience has established a robust track record of collaboration with international health organizations, including CEPI, the Gates Foundation, and the International Vaccine Institute (IVI). By utilizing its comprehensive capabilities in development, manufacturing, and supply, the company is poised to expand its role as a vital partner in public health initiatives aimed at improving vaccine access globally.

As SK bioscience, MSD, and Hilleman Laboratories advance their efforts, the potential for a more reliable and sustainable supply of the Zaire ebolavirus vaccine is on the horizon, promising to enhance preparedness against future outbreaks.