Messenger RNA (mRNA) technology has emerged as an important platform for vaccine research and development, offering a versatile approach for addressing infectious diseases and emerging health threats. This presentation will outline the evolution of mRNA-based approaches from pandemic response to broader applications across a range of pathogens. Built on more than 15 years of platform development, mRNA technology has supported rapid progression from pathogen sequence selection to clinical evaluation, including both single-pathogen and combination vaccine approaches. Current research efforts include respiratory pathogens such as SARS-CoV-2, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and influenza, alongside combination strategies designed to address multiple pathogens. Beyond seasonal and endemic infections, mRNA approaches are also being explored in the context of pandemic preparedness, including considerations relevant to manufacturing readiness, supply resilience, and collaborative development models. These efforts align with broader initiatives aimed at accelerating vaccine development and deployment in future outbreaks. The presentation will provide a clear distinction between authorised products and investigational programmes, with discussion of investigational research centred on scientific rationale, study design, and development approach. Selected examples will be used to illustrate the breadth of mRNA research across different pathogens and settings, including work in areas such as norovirus and Epstein–Barr virus (EBV). Overall, this presentation will provide a scientific overview of how mRNA technology is being applied across infectious disease research and preparedness, and how platform-based approaches may support future vaccine development.