A 2025 meeting report from the Venice lagoon: International graduate program RNAmed – Future Leaders in RNA-based Medicine meets on San Servolo

Abstract

RNAmed – Future Leaders in RNA-based Medicine is a unique graduate training program in the area of RNA-based medicine. Financed by the Free State of Bavaria, Germany, it is jointly run by several universities and research institutes from Würzburg, Regensburg, and Munich. It aspires to equip doctoral students with a comprehensive idea of RNA therapeutics, spanning fundamental biology, translational research, clinical application, regulation, ethics, and societal implications. This integrative approach is meant to cultivate exceptional qualifications for careers across academia, industry, and policy. The RNAmed program held its 2025 annual retreat on San Servolo (Venice, Italy), with a total of 40 doctoral researchers, principal investigators (PIs), and invited guests from academia and pharmaceutical industry attending. The three-day program combined keynotes, student presentations, flash talks, a career panel, and topic-table discussions of advances and challenges across RNA therapeutics to catalyze exchange and collaboration. Presentations highlighted emerging directions for antisense strategies, circular RNAs, delivery technologies, and AI-enabled molecular design, reflecting the program's cross-disciplinary nature. Discussions emphasized shared priorities such as clear experimental standards, robust delivery solutions, and stronger academia–industry ties to accelerate safe, effective RNA medicines. Updates on RNAmed’s growth and extended funding underscored its mission to develop talent through integrated scientific and professional training. Overall, the retreat strengthened a network of early-career scientists and mentors committed to advancing RNA-based modalities from concept to clinic.