Pfizer Inc. is committed to expanding its vaccine business by becoming a leader in the new gene-based technology behind its successful Covid-19 injections.
Pfizer will develop new shots using the technology called mRNA to target other viruses and pathogens outside of the coronavirus, Chief Executive Albert Bourla said in an interview. He said the company’s scientists and engineers have gained a decade of experience over the past year working on the Covid-19 vaccine with Germany’s BioNTech SE, and are ready to pursue mRNA on their own.
“There is a technology that has proven dramatic impact and tremendous potential,” said Mr Bourla. “We are currently the best positioned company to move to the next step because of our size and expertise.”
Pfizer will increase R&D in the technology, including adding at least 50 employees whose jobs will include mRNA, and will use the new mRNA manufacturing network it has put together over the past year to compete.
“We are now at the forefront and we plan to close the gap,” he said of the mRNA vaccine market.