SK bioscience and MSD Collaborate to Develop Ebola Vaccine

SK bioscience is advancing the development of a vaccine for the Zaire ebolavirus through a new collaboration supported by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI). Announced on January 22, 2026, this partnership follows a funding agreement between CEPI and the global pharmaceutical company MSD, which aims to enhance vaccine accessibility and affordability.

Under this agreement, CEPI will provide up to USD 30 million to MSD, which will distribute the funds to its development partners, including SK bioscience and Hilleman Laboratories. The latter is a joint venture between MSD and Wellcome, a global charitable foundation focused on health research. The funding will facilitate crucial research, improve manufacturing processes, and support clinical development activities for the Zaire ebolavirus vaccine.

Improving Vaccine Manufacturing and Accessibility

This collaboration builds on MSD’s existing Zaire ebolavirus vaccine, which has received prequalification from the World Health Organization (WHO). The initiative focuses on updating the complex manufacturing process, which currently requires ultra-low temperature storage. These stringent requirements present logistical challenges in remote, low-resource areas where Ebola outbreaks frequently occur.

The project aims to enhance the manufacturing yield and improve the vaccine’s thermostability, ultimately facilitating a more affordable and sustainable supply. Hilleman Laboratories will lead the clinical development of the updated vaccine, while SK bioscience, in partnership with IDT Biologika, will work on the updated drug substance manufacturing process and its product.

By leveraging its expertise in vaccine manufacturing and infrastructure, SK bioscience aims to contribute to making vaccines more affordable and accessible in low- and middle-income countries.

Zaire ebolavirus has been responsible for numerous unpredictable outbreaks, with a survival rate of approximately 50%. Recent outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo highlight the ongoing global threat posed by the virus, particularly in areas with limited healthcare access.

Statements from Leadership

Dr. Richard Hatchett, CEO of CEPI, emphasized the partnership’s significance, 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.” He noted that this collaboration combines the efforts of longstanding partners, enhancing global defenses against one of humanity’s deadliest pathogens.

Jaeyong Ahn, CEO of SK bioscience, reiterated the importance of global collaboration in addressing infectious diseases such as Ebola. He stated, “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.”

SK bioscience maintains a strong track record of collaboration with various global health organizations, including CEPI, the Gates Foundation, and the International Vaccine Institute (IVI). Through its integrated capabilities in development, manufacturing, and supply, the company is expanding its role in public health initiatives focused on vaccine accessibility.

As the world continues to face challenges from infectious diseases, this collaboration represents a significant step toward improving healthcare solutions and securing vaccine supplies for vulnerable populations globally.