HDR Delivers Australia’s First RNA Research and Manufacturing Facility
RNA Research and Manufacturing Facility has opened at the Macquarie University Innovation Precinct, marking Australia’s first dedicated hub for RNA research and clinical-grade manufacturing. Ribonucleic Acid (RNA) technologies underpin a new generation of vaccines, therapies and diagnostics for viruses, cancers and genetic diseases.
Backed by a $96 million NSW Government investment, the 4,500 square-metre facility was designed by HDR for Health Infrastructure in collaboration with the Office of the Chief Scientist & Engineer, NSW RNA Bioscience Alliance, Hindmarsh Constructions, and Aurora Biosynthetics.
The center supports the pathway from discovery to clinical readiness, strengthening NSW’s capability in next-generation medical technologies and accelerating early clinical testing. According to Ady Chen, HDR’s project lead, it will also change over time while keeping work areas safe and tightly controlled. “It is designed to evolve alongside emerging scientific technologies, with rapid adaptability.”
HDR applied its data-driven design approach and computational, generative workflows to test the facility across multiple production scenarios. The outcome is a flexible planning and services framework that can scale to additional production lines and adapt to changing workflows, utilities demand, and regulatory expectations.
Cultural narratives, Indigenous medicinal knowledge, and spaces for ceremony and reflection are integrated throughout the site. “Landscape design draws on regional ecologies and material textures to enhance campus connections and create a multilayered garden environment that serves as a nurturing retreat for occupants,” said Alan Boswell, HDR’s design lead.
Sustainability informed key decisions, including passive design strategies, high-efficiency systems and all-electric services powered by renewables. The building targets at least a 10% reduction in operational energy use, a 15% reduction in potable water consumption through fixtures and rainwater harvesting, and a 20% reduction in embodied carbon.
Graeme Spencer, principal of education and science at HDR, said: “Purpose-built environments like this are critical to Australia’s ability to develop RNA-based therapeutics at speed. By bringing flexible pilot manufacturing together with collaborative research spaces, the facility strengthens sovereign capability and supports real-world health outcomes.”
About HDR
HDR is a 100% employee-owned professional services firm. Founded over a century ago to bring electricity to a changing world, HDR is now a global company specialising in architecture, engineering, environmental, and construction services. Our success in built and natural environments continues as we collaborate to solve our clients’ and communities’ most complex challenges.
