RNA - Genetherapys
PharmaTech Academy

Grounded in the principle of learning by doing, PharmaTech Academy prepares highly qualified professionals to contribute across all stages of RNA-based drug development and gene therapy.

Committed to lifelong learning, the program will develop both the technical hard skills and interpersonal soft skills, ensuring graduates are equipped to thrive in today’s fast-evolving global pharmaceutical sector.

The call for applications is now open for the 2025-2026 academic year. Click to learn more!

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2023-2024 Academic Year 2024-2025 Academic Year 2025-2026 Academic Year

Academia & Industry

Bridging the Gap

 Led by the Department of Pharmacy at the University of Naples Federico II, this initiative is part of the National Center’s mission to foster collaboration between academia and industry. Emphasizing real-world experience by involving pharmaceutical sector leaders and entrepreneurial start-up professionals in the teaching process, students remain up-to-date on current industry trends.

Skill Development

PharmaTech Academy cultivates advanced technical capabilities—enabling students to engage meaningfully in every phase of the drug development pipeline, from molecular research to clinical application. The program emphasizes lateral skills—such as adaptability and project prioritization—as well as vertical skills, which provide the specialized knowledge needed to master cutting-edge techniques in the life sciences.

Program Highlights

  • 500+ hours of in-person classroom instruction
  • 150+ hours of independent study
  • 60 instructors from academia and industry

Course Units

Unit 1: Advanced Competencies in Gene Therapy R&D

This unit focused on vertical disciplinary training in gene therapy research and development. Key topics included:

  • Therapeutic gene editing
  • RNA therapy and safety sciences
  • Nucleic acid nanotechnology for therapeutic use
  • R&D laboratory practices and workflows

Unit 2: RNA-Based Drug Production and Regulation

This unit addressed the broader landscape of RNA-based therapeutics, including:

  • Manufacturing processes
  • Medical and regulatory affairs
  • Advanced Therapy Medicinal Products (ATMPs)
  • Drug distribution logistics
  • Technology transfer

Workshops and Laboratory Sessions

Spanning six weeks, the hands-on component featured leading experts from UNINA, UNIPD, UNIMI, Deloitte, Stevanato Group, and AstraZeneca, offering students an opportunity to work directly with technologies and methodologies at the cutting edge of biopharmaceutical development.

Project Work

To complete the program, each student participates in a project-based internship; this Project Work ensures graduates leave with practical experience, confidence, and industry connections to launch successful careers in RNA and gene therapy.

PharmeTech Academy Brochure