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

SK bioscience, in collaboration with MSD and Hilleman Laboratories, is advancing the development of a vaccine for the Zaire ebolavirus, following a funding agreement with the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI). The partnership aims to enhance vaccine accessibility and sustainability, addressing both manufacturing processes and clinical development.

On January 22, 2026, it was announced that CEPI will provide up to USD 30 million to MSD, which will allocate these funds to its partners, including SK bioscience and Hilleman Laboratories. This agreement builds upon MSD’s existing Zaire ebolavirus vaccine, which is already prequalified by the World Health Organization (WHO). The focus of the collaboration is to improve the complexity of the current manufacturing process, which requires ultra-low temperature storage—an obstacle in regions that experience frequent outbreaks.

By enhancing the manufacturing yield and increasing the thermostability of the vaccine, the project aims to create a more affordable and accessible supply, subject to regulatory approval and public health needs. Hilleman Laboratories will lead the clinical development for the updated vaccine, while SK bioscience, alongside IDT Biologika, will work on refining the drug substance manufacturing process.

The ongoing threat of the Zaire ebolavirus, which has a survival rate of around 50%, underscores the necessity of this initiative. Recent outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and other nations highlight the vulnerabilities faced by communities with limited healthcare access and logistics infrastructure.

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 – and now 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 expressed confidence in the partnership’s ability to enhance global defenses against this deadly pathogen.

Jaeyong Ahn, CEO of SK bioscience, noted the importance of global collaboration in addressing infectious diseases like Ebola. He remarked, “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 has a proven track record of working with global health organizations, including CEPI, the Gates Foundation, and the International Vaccine Institute (IVI). By utilizing its comprehensive development and manufacturing capabilities, the company aims to strengthen its role in public health-driven vaccine initiatives.

As global health challenges persist, this collaborative effort represents a significant step toward ensuring that vital vaccines become more accessible to those in need, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.