Advanced technologies enabling accessible and sustainable vaccine development and manufacturing for future pandemics

The unprecedented speed and scale in vaccine development and manufacturing were key factors in ending the acute phase of the COVID-19 pandemic and lowering the rates of illness and death from SARS-CoV-2. Efforts to further accelerate vaccine development are still ongoing, with an increased focus on ensuring equitable access to vaccines and enhancing manufacturing sustainability with and without pandemic-scale demands. Significant advances have been made recently in the knowledge-based rational design of immunogens, the development of novel vaccine modalities, and the expansion of manufacturing capabilities integrated with process analytical technology and digitization. This review highlights innovative technologies and the need for continuous investment toward realizing innovations for the vaccine industry. In addition, alignment with global regulators is discussed to improve the practical implementation of the innovations and better prepare for future pandemics.