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Genvax at the Cutting Edge of Animal Health Innovation

 

It’s no exaggeration to say that Joel Harris and his team at Genvax are shaping the future of animal health. With a groundbreaking RNA vaccine platform and a steadfast commitment to protecting both livestock and public health, Genvax is on a mission to address some of the most pressing challenges in agriculture.

From its base at the Iowa State University Research Park, Genvax is revolutionizing how diseases in animal populations are managed—an effort that could have profound implications for global food security.

 

A Vision Born in Ames

Founded by Joel Harris and his father, Hank Harris, DVM, PhD, Genvax represents the next chapter in a family legacy of animal health innovation. Joel Harris grew up immersed in the Ames community, where his father was a professor at Iowa State University. This deep connection to the area made the ISU Research Park the natural choice for Genvax's headquarters.

“Our ties to Ames and Iowa State run deep,” Harris says. “From having access to world-class researchers at Iowa State to being in a community committed to agricultural innovation, this is the perfect place for Genvax to grow.”

Revolutionizing Animal Health with RNA Technology

At the core of Genvax’s work is their RNA vaccine platform, which promises faster development and more efficient production of vaccines for livestock. Unlike traditional methods, RNA vaccines allow for rapid adaptation to new or emerging diseases—a crucial advantage in today’s agricultural landscape.

“RNA vaccines are a game-changer,” Harris says. “Not only are they faster to produce, but they also offer a higher level of precision. Our lipid nanoparticle delivery system, adapted from human health innovations, sets us apart in the animal health industry.”

This technology is particularly significant given the rise in zoonotic diseases—those that can transfer between animals and humans. As Harris points out, addressing diseases in animal populations is critical not just for protecting livestock but also for safeguarding public health.

“When we vaccinate animals, we’re also protecting the people who work with them,” Harris says. “It’s about securing our food supply and preventing economic losses from devastating outbreaks.”

A Strategic Location at ISU Research Park

Genvax’s location at the ISU Research Park is more than just a convenient address—it’s a strategic advantage. With access to a pipeline of talent from Iowa State University and proximity to key agricultural stakeholders, the company is well-positioned to drive innovation in animal health.

“The Research Park puts us close to the challenges we’re addressing,” Harris says. “We’re near our customers, and we have access to some of the brightest minds in veterinary medicine and animal science. The community here is deeply committed to agriculture, which aligns perfectly with our mission.”

Collaboration with Iowa State’s Veterinary Diagnostic Lab and other research teams has been instrumental in advancing Genvax’s work. From conducting animal studies to validating the safety and efficacy of their vaccines, these partnerships provide the company with invaluable resources.

“Having access to Iowa State’s expertise and equipment allows us to push the boundaries of what’s possible,” Harris says. “It’s a collaborative environment that fuels innovation.”

Preparing for the Future of Animal Health

As Genvax continues to refine its RNA vaccine platform, the company is also preparing to address larger, looming threats like African swine fever and avian influenza. These diseases not only pose risks to animal health but also threaten the economic stability of entire industries.

“We’re not just preparing for today’s challenges—we’re looking ahead to the next animal health pandemic,” Harris says. “With RNA technology, we can pivot quickly to develop vaccines for emerging threats. It’s about being ready to answer the call when it comes.”

Genvax is also focused on ensuring public acceptance of RNA technology. By collaborating with Iowa State researchers to gather robust data on safety and efficacy, the company is addressing potential misconceptions and building confidence in their solutions.

“We’ve been using RNA vaccines in animal health since 2012,” Harris says. “It’s a proven, safe technology. Our job now is to communicate that clearly and transparently to both the industry and the public.”

Innovation Backed by Industry Support

What sets Genvax apart from other startups is its backing by a diverse group of stakeholders, including industry leaders like Johnsonville and the Iowa Corn Growers Association. This broad support underscores the urgency of addressing animal health challenges and reflects confidence in Genvax’s approach.


“Our investors understand the stakes,” Harris says. “This isn’t just about business—it’s about protecting the livelihoods of farmers, ensuring a stable food supply, and safeguarding the agricultural economy. Having that kind of support is both humbling and motivating.”

Building for Tomorrow

Looking ahead, Genvax is making significant progress on the regulatory front and preparing its 10,000-square-foot manufacturing facility at the ISU Research Park. The company aims to have its first products approved and on the market by 2026, positioning itself as a leader in the next generation of animal health solutions.

“Our goal is to be ready for whatever comes next,” Harris says. “Whether it’s responding to an outbreak or partnering with government agencies to stockpile vaccines, we want to be part of the solution.”

From its roots in Ames to its pioneering work in RNA technology, Genvax exemplifies the innovation and collaboration that the ISU Research Park fosters. As the company continues to grow, its impact will extend far beyond Iowa—shaping the future of animal health and ensuring the resilience of agriculture worldwide.



For more information about Genvax, visit genvax.com.