The RNA Research and Manufacturing Facility is a purpose-built facility for RNA-based research and manufacturing at the Macquarie University Innovation Precinct in Sydney, Australia. Delivered for Health Infrastructure, it supports the development and translation of Ribonucleic Acid (RNA) technologies into clinical-grade vaccines, therapies and diagnostics for cancers, genetic disorders, viral diseases and other health applications.

A Platform for Translational Science

The facility is purpose-built to support the full pathway from discovery through to clinical readiness, strengthening NSW’s capacity to rapidly translate scientific innovation into real-world health outcomes. It includes synthetic RNA and mRNA production suites, lipid nanoparticle encapsulation capability, pilot-scale fill-and-finish manufacturing, and integrated QA/QC laboratories. Designed to support GMP-aligned operations and TGA approval pathways, the facility accelerates first-in-human studies and maintains the highest standards of safety, precision and regulatory compliance.

Designing for Flexibility and Future Growth

HDR applied its data-driven design (D3) methodology and computational design processes to rigorously test the facility against multiple future production scenarios, building resilience beyond a single operational model. The design was developed and stress-tested across evolving process adjacencies, pressure cascades, people and material flows, and servicing demands associated with different RNA manufacturing configurations. This approach enables the building to adapt to changing technologies, expand production capacity over time, and respond to evolving regulatory and operational requirements while preserving clarity, containment integrity and operational efficiency.

The facility is conceived as a high-precision pavilion within a grove of mature gum trees, embedding advanced scientific capability within a deeply connected natural setting. The building’s horizontal form is articulated with slender vertical elements that reference the surrounding forest and draw natural light deep into the interior. This creates a calm, grounded environment for complex RNA science, and respects the cultural and ecological character of the site. The façade is composed of a carefully modulated system that balances transparency and solidity, supporting privacy, solar control and visual connection to the landscape. A recessed base further integrates the building into its setting to reinforce a sense of lightness among the trees.

Culture, Country and Collaboration

The design was developed in close collaboration with Macquarie University’s Walanga Muru, the Office of the Pro Vice-Chancellor (Indigenous Strategy), and cultural consultant Belanjee. This engagement informed both the architectural and landscape outcomes, embedding Indigenous knowledge systems, cultural narratives and spaces for reflection and ceremony into the site. The landscape design draws on local ecologies and material palettes to create a layered and restorative environment that supports wellbeing and strengthens connection to Country.

Sustainable High-Performance Infrastructure

Sustainability was embedded throughout the design as a core performance driver, with a focus on operational efficiency, resilience and long-term environmental responsibility. The facility incorporates passive design strategies, high-efficiency mechanical and laboratory systems, and all-electric services powered by renewable energy. Water efficiency measures include rainwater harvesting and low-consumption fixtures, while embodied carbon reduction strategies and biodiversity enhancements further support environmental performance. Light spill management and strategic shading contribute to the protection of surrounding ecological systems.

The RNA Research & Manufacturing Facility project team includes Health Infrastructure NSW, HDR, the Office of the Chief Scientist & Engineer, NSW RNA Bioscience Alliance, Hindmarsh Constructions, Aurora Biosynthetics, Belanjee, and Macquarie University.