Dr. Pieter Cullis, a professor in UBC’s department of biochemistry and molecular biology, has been awarded the inaugural VinFuture Grand Prize alongside peers Drs. Katalin Kariko and Drew Weissman. The award recognizes the trio’s work on mRNA technology that paved the way for effective COVID-19 vaccines. The $3 million VinFuture Grand Prize is the first global sci-tech award from Vietnam. It was established to recognize breakthrough research and technological innovations which positively improve the quality of human life and create a more equitable and sustainable world for future generations. The prize is awarded by the VinFuture Foundation, founded by Vietnamese businessman Mr. Pham Nhat Vuong.