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Conference Papers and Communications De Silva, A. D., Perera, N., Abeysekera, D. M. & Elvitigala, J. P. (2009) Molecular characterization of Mycobacterium tuberculosis(MTB) isolates in Sri Lanka utilizing the Mycobaterium interspersed repetitive units(MIRU) typing method. Respire, Inaugural symposium of the association of pulmonologists. De Silva, A. D., Samarasinghe, K. S. R. G. S. L., Abeysekera, D. M. & Elvitigala, J. P. (2009) Screening for IS6110 zero copy number strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis in Sri Lanka Genetech Research Institute, Colombo 8, Chest Hospital, Welisara. The Bulletin of the Sri Lanka College of Microbiologists, volume 7, Issue 1. Muthunayake, T., Dangalle, C., Fernandopulle, N. & Weerakoon, D. (2009) Genetic analysis of morphologically non-identifiable translocated Puntius bandula population at Salgala using CO1 region of mt DNA. Proceedings of the Fourteenth International Forestry and Environment Symposium, University of Sri Jayawardenepura, Sri Lanka. 1 (1), 66. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/335926117_Genetic_analysis_of_morphologically_non-identifiable_translocated_Puntius_bandula_population_at_Salgala_using_CO1_region_of_mtDNA Wickramasinghe, E. D. T. S. L., Fernandopulle, N. D. & Hettiarachchi, P. L. L. (2009) DNA barcoding of Sri Lankan Tea - A method to secure ownership in the international trade. Proceedings of the Fourteenth International Forestry and Environment Symposium, University of Sri Jayawardenepura, Sri Lanka. 1 (1), 68. Samaradivakara, S., Gunasekera, I., Mendis, B., Karunaratne, U., Jayathunga, T., Sledgers, R. & Fernandopulle, N. (2009) Preliminary study on DNA barcoding of cinnamon varieties in Sri Lanka. Proceedings of the Fourteenth International Forestry and Environment Symposium, University of Sri Jayawardenepura, Sri Lanka. 1 (1), 69-70. Fernando, A., Samaradivakara, S., De Silva, A. D., Baranage, G., Herath, I., Fernandopulle, N. D., Padmalal, K. & Ranawaka, G. R. R. (2009) DNA Barcoding of the Sri Lankan Slender Loris (Loris tardigradus or Loris lydekkerianus?) A preliminary report. Proceedings of the Fourteenth International Forestry and Environment Symposium, University of Sri Jayawardenepura, Sri Lanka. 1 (1), 74. Available from: http://repository.ou.ac.lk/handle/94ousl/1845 Rajasinghe, M. H. L. D., Fernandopulle, N. & Perera, A. L. T. (2009) Detection of Genetically Modified Soy Food in Sri Lankan Supermarket, Paper Presented at the Proceedings of the Peradeniya, University Research Sessions, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka.Vol:14 (1) pp: 16-18. Perera, A. N. K., Logendra, B., Fernandopulle, N. D. & Attanayaka, D. P. S. T. G. (2009) Development of a PCR-based molecular Detection Assay for Thielaviopsis paradoxa in Coconut Fibre Dust. Proceedings of 9th Agricultural Research Symposium, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka. 326-331. Tissera, H. A., De Silva, A. D., Abeysinghe, M. R. N., de Silva, A. M., Palihawadana, P., Gunasena, S., Tam, C. C., Gamage, T. M., De Silva, T., Rajapaksa, L. C., Amarasinghe, A., Letson, G. W. & Margolis, H. S. (2009) Dengue Surveillance in Colombo, Sri Lanka: Baseline seroprevalence among children. Procedia in Vaccinology . 2(1) 110–114. Available from: doi: 10.1016/j.provac.2010.03.020 Gunathilaka, P. V. V. W., Fernandopulle, N. D. & Attanayaka, D. P. S. T. G. (2007) Development of an in-house method for purification and characterization of Taq DNA polymerase. Proceedings of 7th Agricultural Research Symposium, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka. 1 (1), 27-31. Fernandopulle, N. D. (2007) DNA typing for forensic and civil casework in Sri Lanka; a critical review. Proceedings of the 9th Indo-Pacific Congress on Legal Medicine & Forensic Sciences. Illeperuma, R. J. (2007) Y-Chromosome and Mitochondrial DNA reference data bases for Sri Lankan Human Population, 9th Indo-Pacific Congress on Legal Medicine & Forensic Sciences. OP-72 p83. Markalanda, D. A., Illeperuma, R. J. & Fernandopulle, N. D. (2007) Establishment of a Differential extraction of Male and Female DNA from sexual assault samples - 9th Indo-Pacific Congress on Legal Medicine & Forensic Sciences. Fernandopulle, D. N., Senevirathna, D. B., Ranaweera, D. M., Abeysekara, D., Perera, N., Kanakaratne, N., Jayasinghe, S., Samaraweera, P. & De Silva, A. (2007) Detection of HCV Genotypes among Sri Lankan Patients by Reverse Transcriptase-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR). The Bulletin of the Sri Lanka College of Microbiologists Vol 5. Seneviratne, D. & Gunasekera, M. B. (2006) Development of a low-cost in-house RT-PCR assay for the detection of hepatitis C virus. Annual Sessions of the Post Graduate Institute of Science, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. Abbas, R., Senevirathne, D., Ranaweera, D. & Fernandopulle, N. D. (2006) DNA-based detection of Herpes Simplex virus 1 and 2 in clinical samples and its usefulness as a screening test for viral encephalitis. Proceedings of the 62nd Annual Sessions of the Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Science. Wahala, M., Messer, W., Kanakaratne, N., Perera, N., Seneviratne, D., Ranawake, G. R., Shahani, A., Ruberu, D., Gunasekera, M. B. & De Silva, A. M. (2005) Virological parameters of recent dengue hemorrhagic fever outbreak in Sri Lanka. Annual sessions of PUBMED, National institutes of Health, USA. Seneviratne, D., Gamage, P., Baranage, G., Jayasinghe, S., Shahani, A., Somaiah, S., Fernandopulle, N. D. & Gunasekera, M. B. (2004). Screening for Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection by an in-house reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) based assay (2004) The Bulletin of the Sri Lanka College of Microbiologists Vol 2 (1). Fernandopulle, N. D., De Silva, V., Perera, N., Jayathilake, M. M., Pieris, D., Balawardana, J., Perera, M. & Gunasekera, M. B. (2004) Screening for Philadelphia Chromosome by an in-house Reverse Transcription-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) based assay. Proceedings of the 60th Annual Sessions of the Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Science. Illeperuma, R. J., Fernandopulle, N. D., Senevirathna, D., Baranage, G., Perera, N. & Gunasekera, M. B. (2004). A comparison of theoretical and observed statistical data in paternity testing by DNA analysis. Proceedings of the 60th Annual Sessions of the Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Science. Jayathilaka, S., Weerasinghe, R. & Fernandopulle, N. (2004) Predicting ethnic origin from DNA by neural networks. Proceedings of the 6th International Information Technology Conference IITC 2004, Colombo, Sri Lanka. Baranage, G., Seneviratne, D., Gamage, P., Ranawaka, G., Perera, N., Illeperuma, R., Ruberu, D., Shahani, A. & Gunasekera, M. B. (2004) Screening of febrile cases for early diagnosis of dengue and identification of dengue virus type using in-house diagnostic kits based on polymerase chain reaction. The Bulletin of the Sri Lanka College of Microbiologists Vol 2 (1). Illeperuma, R. J., Fernandopulle, N. D., Senevirathna, D., Baranage, G., Perera, N. & Gunasekera, M. B. (2004) DNA-based testing as a social phenomenon in Sri Lanka. Proceedings of the 60th Annual Sessions of the Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Science. Ranawaka, G. R., Gamage, P., De Silva, V., Fernando, A., Seneviratne, D. & Gunasekera, M. B. (2003) Evaluation of a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-agarose gel electrophoresis assay with a PCR-hybridization assay for the detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Proceedings of the 59th Annual Sessions of the Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Science. Gamage, P., Seneviratne, D., Herath, C. A., Fernandopulle, N. D. & Gunasekera, M. B. (2003) Polymerase chain reaction based detection of cytomegalovirus infection in Sri Lanka. Proceedings of the 59th Annual Sessions of the Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Science. ​ ​ Page 2 of 2 1 2

Molecular Diagnostics of Infectious Diseases This is a course which can be customised based on the request of degree awarding institutes, hospitals and groups of individuals such as lawyers, lecturers, scientists and teachers who wish to obtain a foundation in the theoretical and practical aspects of molecular diagnostics. ​ Course Content: ​ Molecular Diagnostic Tools Extraction of nucleic acids (DNA/RNA) from different clinical specimens Development of DNA probes and nucleic acid hybridization PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) PCR-Hybridization ​ View FAQs Contact us If you are interested in doing this course at Genetech, please submit the Inquiry Form below or email us at info@genetechsrilanka.com to receive further details. View Inquiry Form

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Our Tests Molecular Diagnostics We pioneered the use of molecular diagnostics in Sri Lanka. We seek evidence of a disease at the basic causative level by detecting the nucleic acids based on PCR technology. Read More GM and Other Food Testing We use a PCR method to identify the most common genetic elements that are generally found in Genetically Modified (GM) crops. Our test can be applied to a wide range of food items including crops and processed food. Read More DNA Typing We pioneered the use of DNA typing for human identification for forensic casework and analysis of family relationships including parentage testing. Read More Sex Determination of Birds Many bird species are monomorphic; thus, males and females cannot be distinguished visually. We offer molecular sexing for proper gender assignment of a wide range of bird species with an accuracy of 99.9%. Read More Animal Testing We are the only firm to provide a PCR based animal disease testing service in Sri Lanka. We offer tests which detect Canine Parvovirus, Canine Distemper, Canine Babesiosis and Canine Ehrlichiosis. In addition to animal disease testing, we provide a cattle parentage testing service through the use of DNA typing. Read More

BSc Research Projects X-Chromosomal recombination – A family study analyzing 7 X-STR loci in Sinhalese. Ruvini Wijithalal, B.Sc. special in Zoology, Department of Zoology and Environment Science, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, 2019. Detection of gene polymorphism in angiotensinogen protein among chronic kidney disease patients in Sri Lankan population. Sathiyamoorthy Kabaskar, B.Sc. (Hons) in Biomedical Science, School of Biomedical Sciences, British College of Applied Studies (BCAS Campus), 2018. Detection of gene polymorphisms in angiotensin II type 1 receptor among chronic kidney disease patients in Sri Lankan population. Shiyamnesh Ganesh, B.Sc. (Hons) in Biomedical Science, School of Biomedical Sciences, British College of Applied Studies (BCAS Campus), 2018. A population genetic study of six X-STR markers among Sri Lankans and its applicability in resolving forensic and kinship case work in Sri Lanka. Hasna Riyal, Department of Zoology and Environment Science, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, 2016. Development of a low cost in-house method for the analysis of Y-chromosomal mini STR loci DYS19, DYS388 and DYS390. Anushika B.Sc., Department of Botany, Faculty of Applied Science, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka, 2010. Isolation of OsRDEB2A Gene in Drought Tolerance and Susceptible Rice Varieties and Cloning of OsDREB2A Gene. Thanuja Denipitiya, B.Sc., Molecular Biology & Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, 2010. Rapid and specific genotyping system for major hepatitis B virus genotypes by PCR using type-specific primers. D. Palika. C. Vithana, B.Sc., Department of Botany, Faculty of Applied Science, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka, 2010. Cloning and Characterization of the Promoter of OSR40c1 Gene (an ABA Responsive, Salinity Induced and Root Specific Gene) from Local Rice Germplasm A. Ishara Sandamali Atukorala, BSc. (Plant Biotechnology), Department of Plant Sciences, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, 2010. Phylogenetic analysis of Puntius bandula (Bandula Barb) of Sri Lanka using CO1 region of mitochondrial DNA- Tharaka Bhanuguptha, B.Sc. special in Zoology, Department of Zoology, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, 2009. Development of In-House Low Cost Laboratory Protocols for the Detection of Genetically Modified Food. M. H. Lichchavi Dhananjaya Rajasinghe, B.Sc. in Agricultural Technology & Management, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2009. Screening for the OSr40c1 gene (a novel ABA responsive salinity induced and root specific gene in local rice germplasm Gayani N. Wickramarathna, B.Sc. in Agriculture, Department of Plant Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, 2009. Optimization and establishment of DNA barcoding of tea varieties in Sri Lanka. E. D. Trashila S. Wickremasinghe, B.Sc. in Plant Biotechnology, Department of Botany, University of Sri Jayawardenepura, Sri Lanka, 2009. Development of a PCR-based Molecular Detection Assay for Thielaviopsis paradoxa in Coconut Fibre Dust (CFD). Nimhani. K. Perera, B.Sc., Faculty of Agriculture and Plantation Management. Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, 2009. Population study of the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) core loci D3S1358, D5S818, D8S1179 short tandem repeat (STR) polymorphisms in Sri Lanka. W. Chatumal, B.Sc. in Natural Sciences, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Open University of Sri Lanka, 2008. Optimizing and field testing methods for DNA barcoding of birds in Sri Lanka. Irushinie R. Wedage, B.Sc., Department of Zoology, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, 2008. Development of an in-house method for purification and characterization of Taq DNA polymerase. P. V. V. W. Gunathilaka, B.Sc., Faculty of Agriculture and Plantation Management. Wayamba University of Sri Lanka. 2007. ​ ​ Anchor 1

Internships Our internships consist of shadow learning and hands on training with individual attention, and self-learning is facilitated through the provision of appropriate reading materials. This will be supervised by the experts in the relevant fields. These internships are beneficial for graduates who are looking to pursue molecular biology related careers or postgraduate studies either in Sri Lanka or overseas and also undergraduate and postgraduate students who wish to acquire hands-on experience in molecular biology applications. We also offer internship programmes for Local and International A/L Students. We provide the following five types of internships. ​ Two Week Internship on Molecular Disease Diagnostics: Fee: Rs. 70,000 Start Date: TBD End Date: TBD More information about this internship is given under Molecular Disease Diagnostics on this page. Two Week Internship on DNA Fingerprinting and Genetically Modified (GM) Food Testing: Fee: Rs. 70,000 Start Date: TBD End Date: TBD More information about this internship is given under DNA Fingerprinting and Genetically Modified (GM) Food Testing on this page. Four Week Internship on Molecular Disease Diagnostics, DNA Fingerprinting and Genetically Modified (GM) Food Testing: Fee: Rs. 109 ,000 Start Date: TBD End Date: TBD Please note that this Four Week Internship is a combination of the 2 Two Week Internships mentioned above (Molecular Disease Diagnostics and DNA Fingerprinting and Genetically Modified (GM) Food Testing ). Six Week Internship: This is a six week programme that consists of two weeks of shadow learning and training in either Molecular Disease Diagnostics or DNA Fingerprinting and Genetically Modified (GM) Food Testing followed by a four week internship involving an individual research assignment. Students can enrol in the internship where they will be given a brief research project to work on over a four week period after completing the two week training programme.. Alternatively, students can participate in the Two Week Industry Based Training Programme to receive the required two weeks of training before being eligible to enrol in the four week internship involving an individual research assignment. The total fee for this internship will vary depending on the type of individual research assignment and equipment used. However, the fee for the first two weeks of this six week internship is Rs. 70,000. Long Term Customised Internships and Research Opportunities in Gene Technology Duration: 6 weeks and upwards ​ Molecular Disease Diagnostics (2 weeks) ​ ​ Testing included: Human infectious disease testing Cancer testing Canine disease testing Plant disease testing Methods covered: DNA extraction/handling of different samples RNA extraction PCR, RT-PCR, qPCR Gel electrophoresis PCR trouble shooting Introduction to the ISO 25189 system and planning a molecular diagnostic laboratory DNA Fingerprinting and Genetically Modified (GM) Food Testing (2 weeks) ​ Training covered during the internship: Forensic DNA typing Kinship verification Animal and plant forensics Molecular testing of GM food ​ Methods included: Sampling methods used for forensic DNA typing DNA isolation techniques for different kinds of samples Short Tandem Repeat (STR) analysis for autosomal, X and Y chromosomes Mitochondrial DNA analysis Automated fragment analysis and results interpretation Statistical methods in forensic and kinship testing PCR detection of GM food ​ Molecular Diagnostics DNA Fingerprinting View FAQs Contact us If you are interested in doing an internship at Genetech, please submit the Inquiry Form below or email us at info@genetechsrilanka.com to receive further details. View Inquiry Form

Genetech Research Institute Genetech Research Institute (GRI) is a private, not-for-profit organisation that has been established with the vision of allowing objective oriented, independent scientific research in the field of life sciences in Sri Lanka. GRI has a staff of scientists and technical staff as well as a state-of-the-art Molecular Biology and Biochemistry research laboratory. GRI welcomes external researchers to inquire about collaborating with its scientific staff to carry out research in an efficient, dynamic environment. GRI is supported technically and scientifically by Genetech, which is Sri Lanka's first biotechnology company, and the premier practitioner of biotechnology in Sri Lanka. Publications Our scientists have contributed immensely in numerous journal publications and scientific conferences related to Molecular Biology. Student projects We have funded and facilitated undergraduate and postgraduate projects for students from many universities in Sri Lanka. Collaborative projects Collaboration is at the core of everything we do, and this includes working effectively with external researchers. Technical Services Our technical staff analyse samples provided by external researchers and deliver accurate results. Research Policies Our policies allow external researchers to access various facilities that will help meet their objectives. Legal & Ethical Guidelines We conform with all existing Laws of Sri Lanka regarding the performance of scientific research.

Quality Control DNA typing is a highly specialised procedure which requires knowledge and skill. Furthermore, for DNA typing evidence to be acceptable in a Court of Law, it has to meet certain quality standards, which have been well documented and followed by forensic DNA laboratories worldwide. Accordingly in 2010, we became the first DNA typing laboratory in Sri Lanka to achieve ISO 15189:2007 (now 15189:2012) accreditation from Sri Lanka Accreditation Board (SLAB). We at Genetech are proud to announce that every step of our DNA typing process meets these international standards. ​ At Genetech, our quality standards cover all aspects of DNA typing, including qualified and experienced personnel, the latest equipment, and the best of chemicals and reagents. The entire process is performed to generate error-free results which can be verified by any laboratory in the world. ​ Personnel: Genetech has the most experienced and qualified personnel in the field of DNA typing in Sri Lanka. They have pioneered DNA typing in this country, and have laid the foundation for the application of this technology in Sri Lanka. Equipment: We are a fully equipped organisation which has the ability to perform automated fragment analysis in the exact manner required by the standards. Our equipment are regularly calibrated to ensure error-free functioning. Laboratory management: All aspects of laboratory management and documentation are performed to meet the ISO 15189 standards. Aspects of confidentiality, security and independence have been diligently maintained. Technical quality: The type of DNA testing done by us is the latest, most accepted method known as Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) based analysis of Short Tandem Repeats (STRs). This method is presently accepted by the forensic community as the method of choice because of its sensitivity, accuracy, rapidity and cost effectiveness. The type of genetic test: STR loci (genetic locations) which are tested by us are those that are well-studied and regularly used by the forensic community. These include loci found on autosomes, and X and Y chromosomes. The STR loci tested by us are among the most accepted, internationally. These STR loci have also been tested for their suitability to be used for the Sri Lankan population, and they have been proven to be statistically suitable. There is also an established Sri Lankan population database for these loci which enables such DNA evidence to be presented to a Court of Law. In addition to STR testing, we also conduct mitochondrial DNA analysis as required, to assist tracing of maternal lineages. Error minimisation: In order to minimise the possibility of error, we will maintain standards of validation and verification. The analysis of casework samples will be done alongside internationally used standard human DNA, and the results of the casework analysis will be subject to comparison with these DNA standards. Negative controls will be run at every step of the analysis procedure in order to ensure that no cross-contamination of DNA has occurred. Reporting: Once DNA typing results are generated, they are stored in both a graphic format as well as in a numerical format. An individual's DNA profile can be submitted to a Court of Law in both formats. Our scientists can provide statistical interpretation of the results and express the accuracy of the test by statistical means, using data generated from the Sri Lankan human population databases. In order to be valid in a Court of Law, DNA evidence must be supported by statistical data. This data is obtained only by establishing a population database for the population group that is being tested. Therefore, only Sri Lankan population data can be used for such analyses.

Improvement with innovation Research is the foundation of all our activities. Whilst most of the methodologies we adopt have been researched and developed by us, research is constantly being conducted to optimise and improve our methods. Not-for-profit research We have a not-for-profit research division known as Genetech Research Institute (GRI), which is managed by a Board of Trustees headed by Dhammika Gunasekera. Learn more Active involvement locally and globally GRI is the pioneer not-for-profit private scientific research facility in Sri Lanka, and has in its short history been able to receive research grants from national and international granting bodies. We also actively take part in scientific sessions and symposia locally and internationally. Our welcoming culture Our research facility welcomes independent researchers, undergraduate and graduate research students as we believe diversity is important in creating future-ready solutions using cutting-edge technology.

Animal Testing What is Parvovirus and why is early diagnosis essential? Canine Parvovirus (CPV) is a highly contagious pathogen primarily affecting dogs. This virus can also infect other mammals including cats. If untreated, the risk of death may be high. Thus, a rapid and early diagnosis could save their lives. ​ Detection of the virus can help you select an appropriate treatment regimen for your animals, prevent the spread of the virus and save them from secondary infections. Why we recommend a PCR test over an ELISA test The sensitivity of an ELISA test depends on the Ag/Ab concentration and the availability. Thus, it could lead to false positive or negative results. In contrast, our PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) test detects the viral genome and produces no false positive or negative results. This is because it is dependent on the availability of the virus but not its products or Abs. The positive result of an ELISA test can be caused by organisms other than the target. On the other hand, our PCR test detects genetic sequences unique to the target pathogen. Therefore, its specificity is much higher than an ELISA test. The accuracy of the ELISA test varies, and it depends on the Ag/Ab availability. Our PCR test offers a consistent accuracy of 99%. What is tick fever and why may early detection be crucial? Tick fever is a common canine disease in Sri Lanka which is caused through the bite of an infected tick carrying an insidious and deadly organism. Scientifically, it is known as Canine Ehrlichiosis and Canine Babesiosis. ​ Early detection may prevent the dog from experiencing severe anemic conditions caused by the disease due to the highly pathogenic nature of it. Furthermore, the specific detection will help choose a suitable treatment regimen for your dog. Why microscopy and antibody tests are not ideal Some stages of the parasite life cycle cannot be observed through the microscope. Therefore, the probability of obtaining false results is high. It takes several days to develop antibodies against a certain infection in the body. Hence, it is difficult to diagnose the infection early. Antibodies may be present in the body even after the disease is cured. Thus, if the test is done after the infection is cured, the result may be false positive. What we offer We are the first firm to provide a PCR based animal disease testing service in Sri Lanka. We offer tests which detect Canine Parvovirus, Canine Distemper, Canine Babesiosis and Canine Ehrlichiosis. In addition to animal disease testing, we provide a cattle parentage testing service through the use of DNA typing. Contact us View price list

Research leading to the award of MPhil Determination of Population Structure of Yellow Dwarf Coconut Population in Sri Lanka Department of Botany. Chandima Kamral, M.Phil., Faculty of Applied Science, University of Sri Jayawardanapura; Coconut Research Institute, Lunuwila, Sri Lanka, 2015 (partially conducted at Genetech). Morphological and molecular identification of Oreochromis niloticus and its hybrids present in selected reservoirs in Sri Lanka. Saroopa Samaradivakara, M.Phil, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2009. Establishment of DNA based HLA Typing in Sri Lanka for forensic and transplant purposes. Induwara Gooneratne, M.Phil, Department of Forensic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2007.​ MSc Research Projects Detection and confirmed of Brucella abortus in bovine aborted fetuses by PCR in selected localities in Sri Lanka. Samudi N. K. Mohotti, M.Sc., Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, 2017. Genetic characterization and molecular phylogeny of Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) in Sri Lanka based on COI gene. H.A.K.M. Dharmarathne, M.Sc., IBMBB, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, 2016. HLA Typing of MHC Class I Molecules by PCR & Sequencing in Sri Lanka. Rashmi Tippalagama, M.Sc., IBMBB, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, 2012. Molecular epidemiology of Dengue virus. Barathy Logendra, M.Sc. in Experimental Biotechnology, Postgraduate Institute of Science University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka 2010. ​ Molecular Characterization of Chikungunya Virus isolates in Sri Lanka. Ishara Herath, M.Sc in Experimental Biotechnology, Postgraduate Institute of Science University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka 2010. Molecular Characterization of human Cytomegalovirus in a cohort of immunocompromised patients in Sri Lanka. Imalka M. W. Gunasekera, M.Sc in Experimental Biotechnology, Postgraduate Institute of Science University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka 2010. ​ Suitability of using SSR markers to differentiate tissue cultured and other Musa varieties. Fintan. S. Gonsal, M.Sc. Postgraduate Institute of Agriculture, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 2009. ​ Molecular characterization of Mycobacterium tuberculosis isolates in Sri Lanka utilizing the mycobacterium interspersed repetitive units (MIRU) typing method. Nandika Perera, M.Sc. Molecular Life Sciences, Institute of Biochemistry Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka, 2009. Development of a single step reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction assay to detect chikungunya virus in clinical samples. Navodhi Wickremasinghe, M.Sc. in Experimental Biotechnology, Postgraduate Institute of Science University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka 2009. Determination of sensitivity of multiplex and duplex PCR in the determination of Marek's disease virus. Shamini Akushla Wickramage, M.Sc in Experimental Biotechnology, Postgraduate Institute of Science University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka 2009. ​ Establishment of a Molecular Diagnostic System for Detecting Human Papillomavirus in Clinical Samples. Rubatharshini Ambikaibakan, M.Sc. in Experimental Biotechnology, Postgraduate Institute of Science University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka 2008. Development of a low cost multiplex PCR-based diagnostic assay for Down Syndrome. A. Mary Renuka Fernando, M.Sc. in Experimental Biotechnology, Postgraduate Institute of Science University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka 2008. Determination of the sensitivity of PCR based non-radiolabeled hybridization for the detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. K.A.D. Ravi Vishwajith, M.Sc. in Experimental Biotechnology, Postgraduate Institute of Science University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka 2006. Establishment of a molecular diagnostic system for detecting Y-chromosomal microdeletions which cause male infertility. Thiruchelvam Kariharan, M.Sc. in Experimental Biotechnology, Postgraduate Institute of Science University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka 2006. ​ ​ ​

Journal Publications Perera, N., Galhena, G. & Ranawaka, G. (2021) X-chromosomal STR based genetic polymorphisms and demographic history of Sri Lankan ethnicities and their relationship with global populations. Scientific Reports 11:12748. Available from: doi: 10.1038/s41598-021-92314-9 Perera, N., Galhena, G. & Ranawaka, G. (2021) Development of a 16 X-STR multiplex PCR system for kinship analysis and its applicability for the Sinhalese population in Sri Lanka. International Journal of Legal Medicine. 135:161–166. Available from: doi: 10.1007/s00414-020-02450-6 Nirmani, M. D., Perera, N. S. & Galhena, G. H. (2021) Population genetic dynamics of dengue vectors Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus in Sri Lanka: Baseline study for designing Wolbachia control method. International Journal of Tropical Insect Science. 41:1809–1821. Available from: doi: 10.1007/s42690-020-00395-2 Jayasinghearachchi, H. S., Francis, V. R., Sathkumara, H. D., Krishnananthasivam, S., Masakorala, J., Muthugama, T., De Silva, A. D. & Corea, E. M. (2021) Nonclonal Burkholderia pseudomallei Population in Melioidosis Case Cluster, Sri Lanka. Emerging Infectious Diseases. 27 (11). Available from: doi: 10.3201/eid2711.210219 Nirmani, M. D., Perera, N. S. & Galhena, G. H. (2020) The scope of Rp EPIC markers in population genetic studies: a preliminary study with dengue vectors. Journal of the National Science Foundation of Sri Lanka, 48(3): 275-288. Available from: doi: 10.4038/jnsfsr.v48i3.9311 Dharmarathne, H. A. K. M., Weerasena, O. V. D. S. J., Perera, K. L. N. & Galhena, G. (2020) Genetic characterization of Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) in Sri Lanka based on sequence polymorphism of COI gene. Journal of Vector Borne Diseases 57 (2):151–158. Available from: doi: 10.4103/0972-9062.310871 Powell, L. A., Miller, A., Fox, J. M., Kose, N., Klose, T., Kim, A. S., Bombardi, R., Tennekoon, R. N., de Silva, A. D., Carnahan, R. H., Diamond, M. S., Rossmann, M. G., Kuhn, R. J. & Crowe, J. E. Jr. (2020) Human mAbs Broadly Protect against Arthritogenic Alphaviruses by Recognizing Conserved Elements of the Mxra8 Receptor-Binding Site. Cell Host & Microbe. 28(5), 699-711.e7. Available from: doi: 10.1016/j.chom.2020.07.008 Mutucumarana, C. P., Bodinayake, C. K., Nagahawatte, A., Devasiri, V., Kurukulasooriya, R., Anuradha, T., De Silva, A. D., Janko, M. M., Østbye, T., Gubler, D. J., Woods, C. W., Reller, M. E., Tillekeratne, L. G. & Lantos, P. M. (2020) Geospatial analysis of dengue emergence in rural areas in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg. 114(6), 408-414. Available from: doi: 10.1093/trstmh/trz123 Grifoni, A., Voic, H., Dhanda, S. K., Kidd, C. K., Brien, J. D., Buus, S., Stryhn, A., Durbin, A. P., Whitehead, S., Diehl, S. A., De Silva, A. D., Balmaseda, A., Harris, E., Weiskopf, D. & Sette, A. 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