Dr. Matthias Magoola Recognized at International Molecular Biologist Awards for Vaccine Research
KAMPALA – Recognition for Groundbreaking Work in mRNA and Therapeutic Proteins
Dr. Matthias Magoola, Founder and Managing Director of Dei Biopharma Ltd, has been honored at the prestigious International Molecular Biologist Awards for his contributions to vaccine research.
Dr. Magoola received the Best Researcher Award for his pioneering work in mRNA technology, which has advanced the production of therapeutic drugs and protein vaccines.
This annual biochemistry and molecular genetics award recognizes scientists whose molecular discoveries have significantly improved human health.
Dr. Magoola was recognized for his study titled:
“Advancing Therapeutic and Vaccine Proteins: Switching from Recombinant to Ribosomal Delivery—A Humanitarian Cause”
Published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, this research emphasizes how mRNA technology is emerging as a superior approach to producing therapeutic proteins, offering several advantages over traditional recombinant methods.
Breakthrough in mRNA Drug Manufacturing
Dr. Magoola’s study highlights that mRNA technology has already been validated for COVID-19 vaccines and can significantly reduce drug production costs.
“The bioreactors inside the body, the ribosomes, deliver these proteins at a small cost, since these are chemical products and do not require extensive analytical and regulatory exercises,” the study states.
Commenting on the award, Dr. Magoola stressed the importance of affordable drug production, particularly for developing countries:
“The cost of therapeutic drugs and making protein vaccines is very expensive, hence not affordable to over 6.5 billion people worldwide.”
He added that his research aims to bridge the gap between scientific advancements and global accessibility.
“This paper and our cutting-edge technology reveal what the world needs to do to bring down the cost of these drugs. The research also aims to create harmony among different agencies worldwide that produce these medicines.”
Dr. Magoola hopes his research will inspire developing countries to manufacture their own therapeutic drugs.
“We thank them (Molecular Biologist Awards) for selecting our research paper among thousands. We also thank the team at Dei Biopharma that has spent sleepless nights working on this research,” he said.
A Legacy of Innovation and Recognition
This award adds to Dr. Magoola’s growing list of accolades. Earlier this year, he received a Doctorate of Philosophy (PhD) from the European International University France.
He has also authored a peer-reviewed study published in Pharmaceuticals, titled:
“Synergistic Approaches in Neurodegenerative Therapeutics: Multi-Target Drug Innovative Interventions for Alzheimer’s Disease”
Dr. Magoola holds a Bachelor of Science in Industrial Chemistry from Makerere University Kampala (MUK).
Dr. Magoola’s Contributions to Medical Science
Over the years, Dr. Magoola has led the Dei Group in launching several biotechnology innovations, including:
- The flagship biological drugs and vaccines manufacturing facility in Matugga, Wakiso District, Uganda
- The Dei Anti-Malarial drug, developed from natural sources, with US-patented active ingredients
- A COVID-19 vaccine developed using mRNA technology, currently stored in a cell bank in the USA
- More than 100 patents filed in the USA for treatments of cancer, HIV, Alzheimer’s, Malaria, Tuberculosis, Diabetes, and more
One of Dr. Magoola’s key patents encodes Darbepoetin, a therapeutic protein used for treating acute kidney failure and cancer. This patent, based on mRNA technology, has received feedback from the US FDA, making him one of the first scientists globally to develop a therapeutic protein using mRNA technology.
Additionally, the US FDA has granted approval for Dr. Magoola’s team to continue development of this novel product.
Dr. Magoola has also filed a Type B meeting request with the US FDA for a vaccine targeting neurodegenerative disorders, including Alzheimer’s, and is awaiting regulatory feedback.
Global Recognition for Leadership in Biotechnology
Dr. Magoola’s pioneering work has earned him:
- The International Molecular Biologist Award
- Nomination as a full member of Sigma Xi, a prestigious society for the world’s leading scientists
Founded in 1886, Sigma Xi has included legendary scientists such as:
- Albert Einstein
- Linus Pauling
- Barbara McClintock
- Sally Ride
Additionally, Dr. Magoola has been nominated by the Silicon Valley Review as one of the top pharmaceutical CEOs to watch in 2025.
Advancing Science and Healthcare in Africa
Dr. Magoola remains committed to leading Africa’s scientific community toward self-sufficiency in drug discovery, development, and production. His cutting-edge research and patented innovations continue to position Uganda as a hub for biotechnological advancements.
With ongoing breakthroughs in mRNA technology, cancer treatment, and neurodegenerative disorders, Dr. Magoola’s impact on global healthcare and pharmaceutical innovation is unmatched.
