Nominations open for ADB-RIGHT Training Award

Deadline: 01-Dec-2025

The RIGHT Foundation Training Award (TA) offers a nine-week, fully-funded program to enhance vaccine and biomanufacturing skills for professionals from low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). The program combines four weeks of online didactic learning with five weeks of in-person practical training in Incheon, South Korea, providing hands-on experience in modern vaccine production, quality control, and regulatory compliance.

Program Overview

The RIGHT Foundation Training Award addresses critical gaps in global vaccine manufacturing by developing skilled human capital in LMICs. It equips participants with:

• Practical experience in vaccine production processes

• Knowledge of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and quality control systems

• Understanding of regulatory frameworks, including WHO prequalification

• Skills to train others and transfer knowledge within home institutions

The program is designed for professionals currently working in vaccine or biopharmaceutical sectors and aims to enhance regional manufacturing capacity while supporting global health security.

Training Structure

Phase 1 – Online Didactic Learning (4 Weeks)

• Foundational knowledge in biopharmaceutical basics, vaccine manufacturing, and regulatory frameworks

• Topics include biologics regulation, vaccine registration, mRNA medicines, upstream/downstream processing, formulation, and WHO prequalification

• Engagement through recorded lectures, assessments, and weekly Q&A sessions

Phase 2 – Practical In-Person Training (5 Weeks)

• Location: Songdo Campus, Yonsei University, Incheon, Republic of Korea

• Hands-on experience in:

  • Fermentation and microbial transformation

  • Bioreactor operation

  • Chromatography systems

  • Aseptic simulations and LNP manufacturing

  • Microbial testing and digital PCR

  • Vaccine quality assurance, quality control, and release procedures

• Small-group training to ensure intensive practical engagement

• Site visits to bioprocessing and vaccine technology centers for real-world exposure

Certification

Successful participants will receive a K-NIBRT certification jointly issued by:

• Yonsei University

• RIGHT Foundation

• Asian Development Bank

Financial Support

• Maximum project budget: 4 billion KRW over 36 months

• Full financial coverage includes:

  • Tuition fees

  • Accommodation in single rooms at Yonsei University’s Songdo Campus

  • Meals during the practical training period

  • Round-trip airfare and visa fees

  • All course-related expenses

Eligibility Criteria

• Nationality: Citizens of low- and middle-income countries

• Professional Experience: Minimum five years in vaccine or biopharmaceutical roles

• Academic Qualifications: Degree in biology, biochemistry, chemistry, or related fields

• Employment: Must be currently employed in vaccine manufacturing roles

• Language Proficiency: English

• Required Documents:

  • Video cover letter

  • Curriculum vitae (CV)

  • Employment verification letter

  • Recommendation letter confirming institutional support

How It Works

1. Prepare and submit application with all required documents

2. Phase 1: Complete four weeks of online learning modules

3. Phase 2: Participate in five weeks of in-person practical training at Yonsei University

4. Certification: Upon successful completion, receive K-NIBRT certification

5. Knowledge Transfer: Return to home institution to apply skills and train colleagues

Key Benefits

• Gain practical skills in state-of-the-art vaccine manufacturing

• Learn regulatory compliance and quality control applicable to WHO prequalification

• Enhance ability to train others and strengthen home institution capabilities

• Contribute to regional vaccine manufacturing sovereignty and global health security

Tips for Applicants

• Highlight your relevant professional experience in vaccine or biopharmaceutical manufacturing

• Ensure institutional support is clearly demonstrated in the recommendation letter

• Prepare a concise and engaging video cover letter

• Emphasize English proficiency and prior training or projects in biomanufacturing

• Be prepared to participate fully in both online and in-person modules

FAQ

1. Who can apply?
   Professionals from low- and middle-income countries working in vaccine or biopharmaceutical sectors.

2. What is the duration of the program?
   Nine weeks – four weeks online and five weeks in-person.

3. What financial support is provided?
   Full coverage of tuition, accommodation, meals, airfare, visa, and course-related expenses.

4. Where will the practical training take place?
   Songdo Campus, Yonsei University, Incheon, Republic of Korea.

5. What qualifications are required?
   Degree in biology, biochemistry, chemistry, or related field, with at least five years of relevant professional experience.

6. Is English proficiency required?
   Yes, English is the language of instruction and communication.

7. What certification is awarded?
   K-NIBRT certification jointly issued by Yonsei University, the RIGHT Foundation, and the Asian Development Bank.

Conclusion

The RIGHT Foundation Training Award equips professionals from LMICs with hands-on expertise, regulatory knowledge, and leadership skills in vaccine manufacturing. Participants return to their home institutions prepared to enhance local capabilities, train colleagues, and contribute significantly to regional and global vaccine security.

For more information, visit RIGHT Foundation.