SK Bioscience to Support CEPI-Backed Development of Updated Zaire Ebolavirus Vaccine

SK Bioscience has joined a new international effort to advance an updated Zaire ebolavirus vaccine, following a funding agreement between the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) and Merck & Co., known as MSD outside the U.S. and Canada.

Under the terms of the agreement, CEPI will provide up to $30 million to MSD to continue development of the vaccine. MSD will distribute the funding among its partners, including SK Bioscience and Hilleman Laboratories, a joint venture between MSD and the global health foundation Wellcome. The investment is intended to support research activities, optimization of the vaccine’s manufacturing process, and clinical development.

The initiative builds on MSD’s WHO-prequalified Zaire ebolavirus vaccine, which has been deployed in multiple outbreak responses but requires an intricate manufacturing process and ultra‑low temperature storage. These constraints create significant challenges for health authorities operating in remote regions where Ebola outbreaks most frequently occur.

The new collaboration aims to improve manufacturing yields and enhance the vaccine’s thermostability, a key factor in expanding availability and reducing logistical burdens. If successful and approved by regulators, the updated production approach is expected to support more cost-effective, accessible, and sustainable vaccine supply for low‑ and middle‑income countries.

Hilleman Laboratories will oversee clinical development, while SK Bioscience—working alongside Germany-based IDT Biologika—will lead the development of the updated drug substance and drug product manufacturing processes. SK Bioscience plans to leverage its existing capacity and its partnership with IDT Biologika to strengthen the long‑term supply chain for Ebola vaccines in underserved regions.

Zaire ebolavirus has caused repeated outbreaks in Central Africa and carries an average case fatality rate of about 50%. Recent flare-ups in the Democratic Republic of Congo and neighboring countries have highlighted the persistent threat posed by the virus, particularly in areas with limited medical infrastructure and constrained logistical support.

Jaeyong Ahn, CEO of SK bioscience, said, “Addressing deadly infectious diseases such as Ebola requires strong global collaboration. Through this CEPI-supported partnership, SK bioscience will continue to play a critical role in improving Zaire ebolavirus vaccine manufacturing and supply, contributing meaningfully to global health preparedness.”