Dr. Melissa J. Moore, is a distinguished scientist and educator widely recognized for her contributions to RNA research and a renowned educator known for her ability to communicate seemingly complex scientific concepts to general audiences. Dr. Moore served as the Chief Scientific Officer of Platform Research at Moderna from 2016 to 2021, leading the early-stage research teams that developed Moderna’s groundbreaking mRNA technology, including the COVID-19 vaccine. Academic and Professional Background: Dr. Moore holds a B.S. in Chemistry and Biology from the College of William and Mary and a Ph.D. in Biological Chemistry from MIT, where she specialized in enzymology under Professor Christopher T. Walsh. Her postdoctoral training was with Nobel Laureate Phillip A. Sharp at MIT, where she focused on human RNA metabolism. Before joining Moderna, Dr. Moore was a Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Pharmacology at the University of Massachusetts Chan Medical School, holding the Eleanor Eustis Farrington Chair in Cancer Research. At UMass, she was a founding Co-Director of the RNA Therapeutics Institute and played a crucial role in the Massachusetts Therapeutic and Entrepreneurship Realization initiative (MassTERi), which aimed to translate UMMS discoveries into viable drugs and technologies. Recognitions and Contributions: Dr. Moore is an elected member of the National Academy of Sciences (2017) and a Fellow of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences (2019). She has received numerous accolades, including the RNA Society Lifetime Achievement Award and being named one of the 100 Fiercest Women in Biotech. Focus on Education and Communication: Since stepping down from her role as Moderna’s Chief Scientific Officer for Platform Research in 2021, Dr. Moore has focused on communicating the science of mRNA medicines both within the scientific community and to the broader public. Her 2022 TED talk on mRNA medicines has been viewed more than 2 million times. Dr. Moore’s passion for education and outreach ensures that learners from all backgrounds can understand and appreciate the transformative potential of mRNA technology. With Dr. Moore, you are learning from one of the world’s leading experts in the field. Her extensive experience and pioneering work in mRNA technology provide invaluable insights into the future of medicine. Join us in exploring the exciting world of mRNA medicines, guided by Dr. Moore’s unparalleled expertise and dedication.