The successful development of Covid-19 mRNA vaccines was the result of 60 years of research. “The Pioneers of mRNA” tells the story of the decades of quiet progress in science and medicine that made the revolution possible. The film looks at the main developments and breakthroughs in mRNA technologies, but also, and perhaps more importantly, at the personal stories of the pioneering scientists behind the research.
Though they are now widely celebrated for their groundbreaking contributions, their careers were fraught with obstacles, disappointments, and failures, not to mention the angst that comes with unrecognized victories. On several occasions, major pharmaceutical companies walked away from the revolutionary technology that, by 2021, would bring in billions.
Raphaël Hitier met with leading pioneers of mRNA research in Europe and North America, who shared their stories of doubt, setbacks, and serendipity – including critical encounters at the photocopier and breakthroughs in the lab.
He interviewed an impressive of men and women committed to the advancement of science and medicine, whose passion and single-minded focus overcame skepticism and funding challenges to fulfill their scientific mission.
Their accounts shed light on the daily realities of scientific research, the role played by chance, and the reluctance of pharmaceutical companies to invest in groundbreaking ideas, while revealing how successful researchers work with peers to come up with innovative solutions.
Outstanding animations elucidating the mechanisms of mRNA, major scientific breakthroughs, and the protagonists’ psychological motivations bring a surprising note of whimsy to the science film genre.
The mRNA success story reveals the critical link between fundamental research and technological innovations – and hence the need for continued funding. It also provides essential information to help us form an educated opinion on today’s medical revolution.
This ARTE television event will be aired in a primetime window on Saturday October 7, 2023, to coincide with the start of Science Week.
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