U.S. Military Continues mRNA Vaccine Research after RFK, Jr., Cuts Funding

image via New Scientist

October 1, 2025, 3:00 PM

• •The DoD is continuing to fund mRNA vaccine research, while HHS has cut funding.
• •The cuts raise concerns about the commitment to mRNA technology and its role in fighting viruses.
• •Some projects are restarting with DoD support, while others face uncertain futures.
• •The situation reveals a lack of coordination and potential threats to national preparedness.

The U.S. Department of Defense is continuing to fund mRNA vaccine research, even as the Department of Health and Human Services, led by Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has cut funding for similar projects. This shift has created uncertainty and concern within the scientific community, particularly regarding the future of research for vaccines against deadly pathogens. While some projects face setbacks due to funding cuts, others, especially those backed by the DoD, are moving forward. The situation exposes a lack of coordination and raises concerns about the long-term implications for pandemic preparedness and national biodefense.

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