Moderna and Coursera Team Up for mRNA Education
Moderna, Inc. and Coursera have partnered to launch a groundbreaking free course titled mRNAs as Medicines, designed to educate individuals on mRNA technology. This course, accessible globally through Coursera, is composed of three modules that delve into the structure of proteins and mRNAs, their synthesis, and their roles in the human body.
The Role of mRNA in Medicine
mRNA, or messenger RNA, is a type of RNA that instructs cells to produce proteins, effectively transforming the body into its own medicine factory. This course explores how mRNA can be used to create vaccines, therapies, and treatments for genetic disorders, and even regenerative medicine. By understanding the principles of mRNA, learners can appreciate its revolutionary potential in modern medicine.
Addressing the STEM Skills Gap
As the demand for STEM skills rises, with an estimated 3.5 million jobs needing to be filled in the U.S. by 2025, this initiative aims to close the workforce readiness gap. By offering this course for free, Moderna and Coursera are empowering aspiring scientists, medical professionals, and learners globally to gain crucial insights into mRNA technology.
Commitment to Educational Accessibility
Tracey Franklin, Chief Human Resources Officer at Moderna, emphasizes the company's dedication to accessible education, highlighting that such initiatives can transform lives and communities. Similarly, Marni Baker-Stein, Chief Content Officer at Coursera, underscores the importance of making world-class STEM education accessible to everyone.
About Moderna and Coursera
Moderna is at the forefront of mRNA medicine, known for its rapid development of COVID-19 vaccines. The company operates at the intersection of science, technology, and health, striving to innovate healthcare solutions.
Coursera, co-founded by Stanford professors Andrew Ng and Daphne Koller, is one of the largest online learning platforms, offering a wide array of courses in partnership with leading universities and industries.
Through this collaboration, both companies aim to broaden access to cutting-edge scientific education and foster a better future by reducing educational inequities and enhancing global workforce capabilities.