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Conference Papers and Communications Nirmani, M. D., Perera, K. L. N. S. & Galhena, G. H. (2020) A preliminary virological surveillance of field-caught adult Aedes aegypti (Linnaeus) and Aedes albopictus (Skuse) mosquitoes in selected sites in the District of Colombo and Gampaha of Sri Lanka. Proceedings of Annual Research Symposium 2020, University of Colombo; 44. De Mel, W. D. Y., Illeperuma, R. J., Fernando, S. P., Pusweldeniya, B. M. J. & Padmalal, U. K. G. K. (2019) Genetic variation of Elephas maximus maximus in Maduru Oya national park in Sri Lanka, age 2019: International Conference on Agriculture, Green Economics and Energy, Sapporo, Japan, 2019. Perera, N., Galhena, G. & Ranawaka, G. (2019) Development of a novel X-chromosomal STR based dacaplex PCR assay for the kinship analysis of Sinhalese population. Proceedings of the Open University Research Sessions (OURS 2019), Open University of Sri Lanka, P19. Available from: https://ours.ou.ac.lk/wp-content/uploads/2019/12/Abastracts-Open-University-Research-Sessions-October-2019-19-20.pdf Perera, N., Galhena, G. & Ranawaka, G. (2019) Genetic profiling of six X-chromosomal STR loci among Tamil populations in Sri Lanka. Proceedings of the 39th Annual Sessions of the Institute of Biology. Institute of Biology Sri Lanka, P36. Perera, N., Galhena, G. & Ranawaka, G. (2019) Haplotype analysis of two X-chromosome STR clusters in Sinhalese population. Proceedings of Annual Research Symposium, University of Colombo, P230. Nirmani, M. D., Perera, K. L. N. S. & Galhena, G. H. (2019) Suitability of six microsatellite markers for evolutionary genetic studies of Asian tiger mosquitoes in Sri Lanka. Proceedings of Annual Research Symposium. University of Colombo; 227. Nirmani, M. D., Perera, K. L. N. & Galhena, G. H. (2019) Microsatellite marker-based population dynamics of the dengue vector, Aedes albopictus in Wet and Dry Zones of Sri Lanka. Proceedings of the 75th Annual Sessions of The Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Science; 79. Pusweldeniya, B. M. J. & Illeperuma, R. J. (2018) The success of cigarette and beedi butts as forensic DNA evidence in Sri Lanka. Annual Scientific Sessions of the Medico-Legal Society of Sri Lanka, Colombo, 2018. Nirmani M. D., Perera, K. L. N. & Galhena, G. H. (2017) The effect of extensive mosquito migration on dengue control as revealed by phylogeny of dengue vector Aedes aegypti. World Academy of Science, Engineering and Technology, International Science Index, Medical and Health Sciences, 4(12), 304. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/327305382_The_Effect_of_Extensive_Mosquito_Migration_on_Dengue_Control_as_Revealed_by_Phylogeny_of_Dengue_Vector_Aedes_aegypti Nirmani M. D, Perera, K. L. N. & Galhena, G. H. (2017) A comparison of genetic variability of dengue vectors using microsatellite and EPIC markers. Proceedings of Annual Research Symposium 2017, University of Colombo; 268. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/327305343_A_comparison_of_genetic_variability_of_dengue_vectors_using_microsatellite_and_EPIC_markers Nirmani M. D., Perera, K. L. N. & Galhena, G. H. (2017) Genetic diversity and population dynamics of dengue vectors Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus in selected localities in Sri Lanka. Proceedings of the 73rd Annual Sessions of The Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Science; 169. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/327305541_Genetic_diversity_and_population_dynamics_of_dengue_vectors_Aedes_aegypti_and_Aedes_albopictus_in_selected_localities_in_Sri_Lanka Tharaka, K. P. D. & Illeperuma, R. J. (2017) Amount of DNA in forensic hair evidence play minor role in success for conventional nuclear DNA testing, Annual Scientific Sessions of the Medico-Legal Society of Sri Lanka, Colombo, 2017. Nirmani, M. D., Gangani, P. D., Perera, K. L. N. & Galhena, G. H. (2016) Aedes aegypti population dynamics help evaluation of current vector control measures in Sri Lanka. Proceedings of Annual Research Symposium 2016, University of Colombo; 282. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/327305108_Aedes_aegypti_population_dynamics_help_evaluation_of_current_vector_control_measures_in_Sri_Lanka Gangani, P. D., Nirmani, M. D., Perera, K. L. N. & Galhena, G. H. (2016) Microsatellite markers reveal high genetic diversity among principal dengue vector, Aedes aegypti in Sri Lanka. Proceedings of the 36th Annual sessions of the Institute of Biology; 42. Nirmani, M. D., Gangani, P. D., Perera, K. L. N. & Galhena, G. H. (2016) Long distance passive migrations may explain the low genetic differentiation in principal dengue vector (Aedes aegypti) in Sri Lanka. Proceedings of the 36th Annual Sessions of the Institute of Biology; 43. Nirmani, M. D., Perera, K. L. N. & Galhena, G. H. (2015) Microsatellite markers reveal the spatial genetic structure of dengue vector Aedes aegypti in selected areas in Colombo district. Proceedings of the 35th Annual sessions of the Institute of Biology; 54. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/327305566_Microsatellite_markers_reveal_the_spatial_genetic_structure_of_dengue_vector_Aedes_aegypti_in_selected_areas_in_Colombo_district Nirmani, M. D., Madusanka, R. A., Perera, K. L. N. & Galhena, G. H. (2015) Use of ovitrap surveillance in assessing dengue outbreak risk in selected areas in Colombo district. Proceedings of Peradeniya University International Research Sessions 2015, University of Peradeniya; 229. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/327305370_Use_of_ovitrap_surveillance_in_assessing_dengue_outbreak_risk_in_selected_areas_in_Colombo_district Nirmani, M. D., Perera, K. L. N. & Galhena, G. H. (2015) Vector surveillance suggests an enhanced vector status for Ae. albopictus compared to Ae. aegypti in the Kandy district. Proceedings of Annual Research Symposium 2015, University of Colombo; 112. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/327305462_Vector_surveillance_suggests_an_enhanced_vector_status_for_Ae_albopictus_compared_to_Ae_argypti_in_Kandy_district Nirmani, M. D., Perera, K. L. N. & Galhena, G. H. (2015) Oviposition activity of dengue vectors in response to two different organic infusions. Proceedings of Annual Research Symposium 2015, University of Colombo; 113. Nirmani, M. D., Perera, K. L. N. & Galhena, G. H. (2015) Feasibility of using Exon-Primed Intron-Crossing (EPIC) markers to detect the genetic variation of a dengue vector in Sri Lanka. Proceedings of the 35th Annual Sessions of the Institute of Biology Sri Lanka; 60. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/327305637_The_feasibility_of_using_Exon-Primed_Intron-Crossing_EPIC_markers_to_detect_the_genetic_variation_of_a_dengue_vector_in_Sri_Lanka Kamaral, L. C. J., Perera, S. A. C. N., Perera, K. L. N. S. & Dasanayake, P. N. (2014). Population Structure of Sri Lanka yellow dwarf coconut variety as revealed by SSR markers. International Conference on Multidisciplinary Approaches 2014 (ICMA) pp 150. De Silva, W. H., Kamaral, L. C. J., Mohotti, S. N. K. & Perera, K. L. N. S. (2014) Development and validation of an allelic ladder for D18S51 short tandem repeat (STR) locus. Wayamba International Conference (WinC 2014). pp 251. Kamaral, L. C. J., Perera, K. L. N. S., Dasanayake, P. N. & Perera S. A. C. N. (2013) Variation of Sri Lanka yellow dwarf coconut variety at microsatellite marker loci. Proceedings of the 69th Annual Sessions. SLAAS. Part 1, pp 40. Gunasekera, J. M. A., Jayasekera, G. A. U., Fernandopulle, N. D., Perera, K. L. N. & De Silva, A. D. (2010) Development of Transgenic Plants for Leaffolder (Cnaphalocrosis medinalis) Resistance in Local Rice Varieties. Annual Research Proceedings, University of Colombo. pp 120. Available from: http://192.248.16.117:8080/research/handle/70130/381?mode=full ​ ​ Page 1 of 2 1 2

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. (2020) T Cell Responses Induced by Attenuated Flavivirus Vaccination Are Specific and Show Limited Cross-Reactivity with Other Flavivirus Species. Journal of Virology. 94(10) Available from: doi: 10.1128/JVI.00089-20 Mapalagamage, M., Handunnetti, S. M., Wickremasinghe, A. R., Premawansa, G., Thillainathan, S., Fernando, T., Kanapathippillai, K., De Silva, A. D. & Premawansa, S. (2020) High levels of Serum Angiopoietin 2/1 Ratio at the Critical Stage of Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever in Patients and Association with Clinical and Biochemical Parameters. J Clin Microbiol. 58(4). Available from: doi: 10.1128/JCM.00436-19 Nirmani M. D., Perera, K. L. N. & Galhena, G. H. (2019) Use of ovitrap surveillance to assess dengue outbreak risks in selected dengue endemic areas in Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan Journal of Biology 4(2): 32-46. Available from: doi: 10.4038/sljb.v4i2.39 Tian, Y., Seumois, G., De-Oliveira-Pinto, L. M., Mateus, J., Herrera-de la Mata, S., Kim, C., Hinz, D., Goonawardhana, N. D. S., de Silva, A. D., Premawansa, S., Premawansa, G., Wijewickrama, A., Balmaseda, A., Grifoni, A., Vijayanand, P., Harris, E., Peters, B., Sette, A. & Weiskopf, D. (2019) Molecular Signatures of Dengue Virus-Specific IL-10/IFN-g Co-producing CD4 T cells and their Association with Dengue Disease. Cell Rep. 29(13), 4482-4495.e4. Available from: doi: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.11.098 Burel, J. G., Pomaznoy, M., Lindestam Arlehamn, C. S., Weiskopf, D., da Silva Antunes, R., Jung, Y., Babor, M., Schulten, V., Seumois, G., Greenbaum, J. A., Premawansa, S., Premawansa, G., Wijewickrama, A., Vidanagama, D., Gunasena, B., Tippalagama, R., de Silva, A. D., Gilman, R. H., Saito, M., Taplitz, R., Ley, K., Vijayanand, P., Sette, A. & Peters, B. (2019) Circulating T cell-monocyte complexes are markers of immune perturbations. Elife. Available from: doi: 10.7554/eLife.46045.001 Grifoni, A., Moore, E., Voic, H., Sidney, J., Phillips, E., Jadi, R., Mallal, S., De Silva, A. D., De Silva, A. M., Peters, B., Weiscopf, D. & Sette, A. (2019) Characterization of Magnitude and Antigen Specificity of HLA-DP, DQ, and DRB3/4/5 Restricted DENV-Specific CD4+ T Cell Responses. Front Immunol. Available from: doi: 10.3389/fimmu2019.01568 Jayasinghearachchi, H. S., Corea, E. M., Krishnananthsivam, S., Sathkumara, H. D., Francis, V. R., Abeysekere, T. R. & De Silva, A. D. (2019) Whole-Genome Sequences of Eight Clinical Isolates of Burkholderia Pseudomallei from Melioidosis Patients in Eastern Sri Lanka. Microbial Resour Announc. 8(33). Available from: doi: 10.1128/MRA.00645-19 Kose, N., Fox, J. M., Sapparapu, G., Bombardi, R., Tennekoon, R. N., De Silva, A. D., Elbashir, S. M., Theisen, M. A., Humphris-Narayanan, E., Ciaramella, G., Himansu, S., Diamond, M. S. & Crowe Jr, J. E. (2019) A lipid-encapsulated mRNA encoding a potently neutralizing human monoclonal antibody protects against chikungunya infection. Science Immunology. 4(35). Available from: doi: 10.1126/sciimmunol.aaw6647 Tian, Y., Babor, M., Lane, J., Seumois, G., Liang, S., Goonawardhana, N. D. S., De Silva, A. D., Phillips, E. J., Mallal, S. A., da Silva Antunes, R., Grifoni, A., Vijayanand, P., Weiskopf, D., Peters, B. & Sette, A. (2019) Dengue-specific CD8+ T cell subsets display specialized transcriptomic and TCR profiles. The journal of clinical investigation. 129(4), 1727-1741. Available from: doi: 10.1172/JCI123726 Vimonish, R., Galhena, G. H., Perera, K. L. N. & Magamage, M. P. S. (2018) PCR based approach for detection of bovine babesiosis in suspected carrier cattle and vector ticks in Sri Lanka. Journal of Agricultural Sciences – Sri Lanka, 13(1):55–65. Available from: doi: 10.4038/jas.v13i1.8300 Raut, R., Corbett, K. S., Tennekoon, R. N., Premawansa, S., Wijewickrama, A., Premawansa, G., Mieczkowski, P., Rückert, C., Ebel, G. D., De Silva, A. D. & de Silva, A. M. (2018) Dengue type 1 viruses circulating in humans are highly infectious and poorly neutralized by human antibodies. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA . 116(1), 227-232. Available from: doi: 10.1073/pnas.1812055115 Tillekeratne, L. G., Bodinayake, C. K., Simmons, R., Nagahawatte, A., Devasiri, V., Kodikara Arachchi, W., Nicholson, B. P., Park, L. P., Vanderburg, S., Kurukulasooriya, R., De Silva, A. D., Østybe, T., Reller, M. E. & Woods, C. W. (2018) Respiratory Viral Infection: An Underappreciated Cause of Acute Febrile Illness Admissions in Southern Sri Lanka. Am J Trop Med Hyg . 100 (3), 672-680. Available from: doi: 10.4269/ajtmh.18-0699 Grifoni, A., Costa-Ramos, P., Pham, J., Tian, Y., Rosales, S. L., Seumois, G., Sidney, J., De Silva, A. D., Premkumar, L., Collins, M. H., Stone, M., Norris, P. J., Romero, C. M. E., Durbin, A., Ricciardi, M. J., Ledgerwood, J. E., de Silva, A. M., Busch, M., Peters, B., Vijayanand, P., Harris, E., Falconar, A. K., Kallas, E., Weiskopf, D. & Sette, A. (2018) Cutting Edge: Transcriptional Profiling Reveals Multifunctional and Cytotoxic Antiviral Responses of Zika Virus-Specific CD8+ T Cells. J Immunol . 201 (12), 3487-3491. Available from: doi: 10.4049/jimmunol.1801090 Mapalagamage, M., Handunnetti, S., Premawansa, G., Thillainathan, S., Fernando, T., Kanapathippillai, K., Wickremasinghe, R., De Silva, A. D. & Premawansa, S. (2018) Is Total Serum Nitrite and Nitrate (NOx) Level in Dengue Patients a Potential Prognostic Marker of Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever. Dis Markers . Available from: doi: 10.1155/2018/5328681 Fernando, S. J. A., Faiz, N. M., Handunnetti, S. M., De Silva, A. D., Dasanayake, W. M. D. K., Wickramasinghe, G. D., Karunatilake, R. M. C. H. & de Silva, N. R. (2018) Preliminary study on chronic granulomatous disease in Sri Lanka. Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol. 14, 37. Available from: doi: 10.1186/s13223-018-0264-7 Corea, E. M., de Silva, A. D. & Thevanesam, V. (2018) Melioidosis in Sri Lanka. Trop Med Infect Dis. 3(1). Available from: doi: 10.3390/tropicalmed3010022 Bodinayake, C. K., Tillekeratne, L. G., Nagahawatte, A., Devasiri, V., Kodikara Arachchi, W., Strouse, J. J., Sessions, O. M., Kurukulasooriya, R., Uehara, A., Howe, S., Ong, X. M., Tan, S., Chow, A., Tummalapalli, P., De Silva, A. D., Østbye, T., Woods, C. W., Gubler, D. J. & Reller, M. E. (2018) Evaluation of the WHO 2009 classification for diagnosis of acute dengue in a large cohort of adults and children in Sri Lanka during a dengue-1 epidemic. PLoS Negl Trop Dis . 12(2). Available from: doi: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006258 Montoya, M., Collins, M., Dejnirattisai, W., Katzelnick, L. C., Puerta-Guardo, H., Jadi, R., Schildhauer, S., Supasa, P., Vasanawathana, S., Malasit, P., Mongkolsapaya, J., de Silva, A. D., Tissera, H., Balmaseda, A., Screaton, G., de Silva, A. M. & Harris, E. (2018) Longitudinal Analysis of Antibody Cross-Neutralization Following Zika and Dengue Virus Infection in Asia and the Americas. J Infect Dis . Available from: doi: 10.1093/infdis/jiy164 Premkumar, L., Collins, M., Graham, S., Liou, G. A., Lopez, C. A., Jadi, R., Balmaseda, A., Brackbill, J. A., Dietze, R., Camacho, E., De Silva, A. D., Giuberti, C., Dos Reis, H. L., Singh, T., Heimsath, H., Weiskopf, D., Sette, A., Osorio, J. E., Permar, S. R., Miley, M. J., Lazear, H. M., Harris, E. & de Silva, A. M. (2018) Development of Envelope Protein Antigens To Serologically Differentiate Zika Virus Infection from Dengue Virus Infection. J Clin Microbiol . 56(3). Available from: doi: 10.1128/JCM.01504-17 ​ ​ Page 1 of 3 1 2 3

Journal Publications Sathkumara, H. D., Merritt, A. J., Corea, E. M., Krishnananthasivam, S., Natesan, M., Inglis, T. J. J. & De Silva, A. D. (2018) Clinical, Bacteriologic, and Geographic Stratification of Melioidosis Emerges from the Sri Lankan National Surveillance Program. Am J Trop Med Hyg . 98(2), 607-615. Available from: doi: 10.4269/ajtmh.17-0441 Grifoni, A., Weiskopf, D., Arlehamn, C. S. L., Angelo, M., Leary, S., Sidney, J., Frazier, A., Phillips, E., Mallal, S., Mack, S. J., Tippalagama, R., Goonewardana, S., Premawansa, S., Premawansa, G., Wijewickrama, A., De Silva, A. D. & Sette, A. (2018) Sequence-based HLA-A, B, C, DP, DQ, and DR typing of 714 adults from Colombo, Sri Lanka. Hum Immunol . 79(2), 87-88. Available from: doi: 10.1016/j.humimm.2017.12.007 Patil, V. S., Madrigal, A., Schmiedel, B. J., Clarke, J., O'Rourke, P., de Silva, A. D., Harris, E., Peters, B., Seumois, G., Weiskopf, D., Sette, A. & Vijayanand, P. (2018) Precursors of human CD4+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes identified by single-cell transcriptome analysis. Sci Immunol . 3(19). Available from: doi: 10.1126/sciimmunol.aan8664 Nanayakkara, K. K., Rodrigo, U. G., Perera, K. L. N. & Nanayakkara, C. D. (2017) Pre-natal diagnosis of thalassaemia in Sri Lanka: A ten year review. J Obstet Gynaecol . 37(7), 861-863. Available from: doi: 10.1080/01443615.2017.1306841 de Silva, W.S.I., Perera, M.M.N., Perera, K.L.N.S., Wickramasuriya, & A.M., Jayasekera G.A.U. (2017) In silico Analysis of osr40c1 Promoter Sequence Isolated from Indica Variety Pokkali. Rice Science, Vol. 24 (4): 228-234 Available from: doi: 10.1016/j.rsci.2016.11.002 . Gunasekara, J.M.A., Jayasekera, G.A.U, Perera, K.L.N.S. & Wickramasuriya, A.M, (2017) Development of a Sri Lankan rice variety Bg 94-1 harbouring cry2A gene of Bacillus thuringiensis resistant to rice leaffolder [Cnaphalocrocis medinalis (Guenée)]. Journal of the National Science Foundation of Sri Lanka, 45(2): 143–157. Available from: doi: 10.4038/jnsfsr.v45i2.8180 Goonawardhana, N.D.S., Jayasekara, G.S.K.W., Elanahai, V., Udagama, P.V., & Fernandopulle N.D. (2017) Population genetic data for ten miniSTR loci in the Sri Lankan population. International Journal of Legal Medicine. 131(4):969-970. Available from: doi: 10.1007/s00414-016-1512-3 Tian, Y., Babor, M., Lane, J., Schulten, V., Patil, V. S., Seumois, G., Rosales, S. L., Fu, Z., Picarda, G., Burel, J., Zapardiel-Gonzalo, J., Tennekoon, R. N., De Silva, A. D., Premawansa, S., Premawansa, G., Wijewickrama, A., Greenbaum, J. A., Vijayanand, P., Weiskopf, D., Sette, A. & Peters, B. (2017) Unique phenotypes and clonal expansions of human CD4 effector memory T cells re-expressing CD45RA. Nat Commun. 8(1), 1473. Available from: doi: 10.1038/s41467-017-01728-5 Grifoni, A., Angelo, M. A., Lopez, B., O'Rourke, P. H., Sidney, J., Cerpas, C., Balmaseda, A., Silveira. C. G. T., Maestri, A., Costa, P. R., Durbin, A. P., Diehl, S. A., Phillips, E., Mallal, S., De Silva, A. D., Nchinda, G., Nkenfou, C., Collins, M. H., de Silva, A. M., Lim, M. Q., Macary, P. A., Tatullo, F., Solomon, T., Satchidanandam, V., Desai, A., Ravi, V., Coloma, J., Turtle, L., Rivino, L., Kallas, E. G., Peters, B., Harris, E., Sette, A. & Weiskopf, D. (2017) Global Assessment of Dengue Virus-Specific CD4+ T Cell Responses in Dengue-Endemic Areas. Front Immunol. Available from: doi: 10.3389/fimmu.2017.01309 Grifoni, A., Pham, J., Sidney, J., O'Rourke, P. H., Paul, S., Peters, B., Martini, S. R., de Silva, A. D., Ricciardi, M. J., Magnani, D. M., Silveira, C. G. T., Maestri, A., Costa, P. R., de-Oliveira-Pinto, L. M., de Azeredo, E. L., Damasco, P. V., Phillips, E., Mallal, S., de Silva, A. M., Collins, M., Durbin, A., Diehl, S. A., Cerpas, C., Balmaseda, A., Kuan, G., Coloma, J., Harris, E., Crowe Jr, J. E., Stone, M., Norris, P. J., Busch, M., Vivanco-Cid, H., Cox, J., Graham, B. S., Ledgerwood, J. E., Turtle, L., Solomon, T., Kallas, E. G., Watkins, D. I., Weiskopf, D. & Sette, A. (2017) Prior Dengue virus exposure shapes T cell immunity to Zika virus in humans. J Virol. 91(24). Available from: doi: 10.1128/JVI.01469-17 Uehara, A., Tissera, H. A., Bodinayake, C. K., Amarasinghe, A., Nagahawatte, A., Tillekeratne, L. G., Cui, J., Reller, M. E., Palihawadana, P., Gunasena, S., De Silva, A. D., Wilder-Smith, A., Gubler, D. J., Woods, C. W. & Sessions, O. M. (2017) Analysis of Dengue Serotype 4 in Sri Lanka during the 2012-2013 Dengue Epidemic. Am J Trop Med Hyg. 97(1), 130-136. Available from: doi: 10.4269/ajtmh.16-0540 Krishnananthasivam, S., Jayathilaka, N., Sathkumara, H. D., Corea, E., Natesan, M. & De Silva, A. D. (2017) Host gene expression analysis in Sri Lankan melioidosis patients. PLoSNegl Trop Dis . 11(6). Available from: doi: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0005643 Krishnananthasivam, S., Sathkumara, H. D., Corea, E., Natesan, M. & De Silva, A. D. (2017) Gene Expression Profile of Human Cytokines in Response to Burkholderia pseudomallei Infection. mSphere . 2(2). Available from: doi: 10.1128/mSphere.00121-17 Grifoni, A., Angelo, M., Sidney, J., Paul, S., Peters, B., de Silva, A. D., Phillips, E., Mallal, S., Diehl, S. A., Botten, J., Boyson, J., Kirkpatrick, B. D., Whitehead, S. S., Durbin, A. P., Sette, A. & Weiskopf, D. (2017) Patterns of Cellular Immunity Associated with Experimental Infection with rDEN2Δ30 (Tonga/74) Support Its Suitability as a Human Dengue Virus Challenge Strain. J Virol . 91(8). Available from: doi: 10.1128/JVI.02133-16 Natesan, M., Corea, E., Krishnananthasivam, S., Sathkumara, H. D., Dankmeyer, J. L., Dyas, B. K., Amemiya, K., De Silva, A. D. & Ulrich, R. G. (2017) Calprotectin as a Biomarker for Melioidosis Disease Progression and Management. J Clin Microbiol. 55(4), 1205-1210. Available from: doi: 10.1128/JCM.02284-16 Angelo, M. A., Grifoni, A., O'Rourke, P. H., Sidney, J., Paul, S., Peters, B., De Silva, A. D., Phillips, E., Mallal, S., Diehl, S. A., Kirkpatrick, B. D., Whitehead, S. S., Durbin, A. P., Sette, A. & Weiskopf, D. (2016) Human CD4+ T cell responses to an attenuated tetravalent dengue vaccine parallel those induced by natural infection, in magnitude, HLA restriction and antigen specificity. J Virol . 91(5). Available from: doi: 10.1128/JVI.02147-16 Bodinayake, C. K., Tillekeratne, L. G., Nagahawatte, A., Devasiri, V., Kodikara Arachichi, W., Strouse, J. J., Sessions, O. M., Kurukulasooriya, R., Uehara, A., Howe, S., Ong, X. M., Tan, S., Chow, A., Tummalapalli, P., De Silva, A. D., Østbye, T., Woods, C. W., Gubler, D. J. & Reller, M. E. (2016) Emergence of Epidemic Dengue-1 Virus in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. PLoS Negl Trop Dis. 10(10). Available from: doi: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0004995 Kamaral, L. C. J., Dassanayaka, P. N., Perera, K. L. N. S. & Perera, S. A. C. N. (2016) SSR markers reveal the population structure of Sri Lankan yellow dwarf coconuts (Cocos nucifera L.). Tree Genetics & Genomes 12, 116. Available from: doi: 10.1007/s11295-016-1076-x Kirupananthan, R., Kamaral, L. C. J., Galhena, G. H., Perera, K. L. N. S. & Magamage, M. P. S. (2016) Address the public health and food security concerns of babesiosis through molecular detection of Babesia bovis in suspected carrier cattle of selected localities in Sri Lanka. Procedia Food Science 6: 213-219. Available from: doi: 10.1016/j.profoo.2016.02.053 Weiskopf, D., Angelo, M. A., Grifoni, A., O'Rourke, P. H., Sidney, J., Paul, S., De Silva, A. D., Phillips, E., Mallal, S., Premawansa, S., Premawansa, G., Wijewickrama, A., Peters, B. & Sette, A. (2016) HLA-DRB1 Alleles Are Associated With Different Magnitudes of Dengue Virus-Specific CD4+ T-Cell Responses. J Infect Dis. 214(7), 1117-1124. Available from: doi: 10.1093/infdis/jiw309 de Alwis, R., Bangs, D. J., Angelo, M. A., Cerpas, C., Fernando, A., Sidney, J., Peters, B., Gresh, L., Balmaseda, A., de Silva, A. D., Harris, E., Sette, A. & Weiskopf, D. (2016) Immunodominant Dengue Virus-Specific CD8+ T Cell Responses Are Associated with a Memory PD-1+ Phenotype. J Virol. 90(9), 4771-4779. Available from: doi: 10.1128/JVI.02892-15 Olsen, A., Chen, Y., Ji, Q., Zhu, G., De Silva, A. D., Vilchèze, C., Weisbrod, T., Li, W., Xu, J., Larsen, M., Zhang, J., Porcelli, S. A., Jacobs Jr, W. R. & Chan, J. (2016) Targeting Mycobacterium tuberculosis Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha-Downregulating Genes for the Development of Antituberculous Vaccines. MBio. 7(3). Available from: doi: 10.1128/mBio.01023-15 Tissera, H., Amarasinghe, A., Gunasena, S., De Silva, A. D., Yee, L. W., Sessions, O., Muthukuda, C., Palihawadana, P., Lohr, W., Byass, P., Gubler, D. J. & Wilder-Smith, A. (2016) Laboratory-Enhanced Dengue Sentinel Surveillance in Colombo District, Sri Lanka: 2012-2014. PLoS Negl Trop Dis. 10(2). Available from: doi: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0004477 Weiskopf, D., Angelo, M., Zapardiel, J., Seumois, G., De Silva, A., De Silva, A. D., Vijay, P., Peters, B. & Sette, A. (2016) DENV-specific CD4 T-cells dominantly recognize capsid-derived epitopes and display a cytotoxic phenotype. J Immunol . 196 (1). Available from: https://www.jimmunol.org/content/196/1_Supplement/147.13/tab-article-info Padumadasa, C., Perera, K. L. N. & Sankalpani, E. M. N. (2016) DNA intercalation and cleavage studies of plumbagin and phenanthroline-based Cu(II) complex, [Cu(PLN)(PHEN)]NO3. Int J Chem Stud. 4(4), 87-90. Available from: https://www.chemijournal.com/archives/?year=2016&vol=4&issue=4&ArticleId=282&si=false Fernando, A. N., Malavige, G. N., Perera, K. L. N., Premawansa, S., Ogg, G. S. & De Silva, A. D. (2015) Polymorphisms of Transporter Associated with Antigen Presentation, Tumor Necrosis Factor-α and Interleukin-10 and their Implications for Protection and Susceptibility to Severe Forms of Dengue Fever in Patients in Sri Lanka. Journal of Global Infectious Diseases. 7(4): 157–164. Available from: doi: 10.4103/0974-777X.170501 Weiskopf, D., Cerpas, C., Angelo, M. A., Bangs, D. J., Sidney, J., Paul, S., Peters, B., Sanches, F. P., Silvera, C. G., Costa, P. R., Kallas, E. G., Gresh, L., de Silva, A. D., Balmaseda, A., Harris, E. & Sette, A. (2015) The Human CD8+ T-Cell Responses Against the 4 Dengue Virus Serotypes Are Associated With Distinct Patterns of Protein Targets. J Infect Dis . 212(11), 1743-1751. Available from: doi: 10.1093/infdis/jiv289 ​ ​ Page 2 of 3 1 2 3

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Our Story Genetech was founded with the vision of making the benefits of biotechnology accessible to the people of Sri Lanka. In pursuit of this objective, we have become a pioneer in the field of molecular life sciences in Sri Lanka. ​ We introduced molecular diagnostics and DNA fingerprinting technology to Sri Lanka, and have established ourselves as one of the most progressive and respected private scientific facilities in the country. At present, we are a multi-faceted institution and our activities can be broadly categorised into the following areas: ​ Molecular diagnostics of infectious and genetic diseases DNA typing for paternity testing and forensic casework Teaching of basic to advanced molecular biology Training of personnel involved in molecular biology Genetically modified (GM) and other food testing Sex determination of birds Diagnostics of animal diseases Research in the molecular life sciences Customised biotechnology solutions Molecular biology products ​ Genetech was founded in 2002 by Dr. Maya B. Gunasekera, who obtained her Bachelor of Science with a First Class from the University of Colombo (1980-1983) and her doctorate from the National Institute of Medical Research, UK (1985-1988). She was a Senior Lecturer in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Colombo for 11 Years where she was responsible for introducing Molecular Biology and Gene Technology to the curriculum of the Faculty of Science. She was a pioneer in the use of DNA testing in forensic casework in Sri Lanka. She developed a new molecular method for the detection of the dengue virus among numerous published research findings. Dr. Maya Gunasekera passed away in April 2006. Her husband Dhammika N. Gunasekera, who is an old boy of Royal College (1968-1981), an alumnus of the University of Colombo (1981-1984) and of Imperial College London (1986-1989) is now the owner of Genetech and the managing trustee of Genetech Research Institute. Dr. Maya B. Gunasekera Founder of Genetech Our staff consisting of qualified scientists works with strong ethical commitment to the values of the principles of life sciences, mainly molecular biology. Our dedicated staff work with high levels of commitment and integrity to maintain the quality of our services. Much of our portfolio embodies the development and introduction of DNA based solutions by combining the current technology with latest advances. At Genetech, we ensure that the standard of laboratory organisation, management, analysis methodology, precision, quality control and safety are maintained at levels recommended by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO 15189). All diagnostics tests conducted by us will initially undergo standard validation procedures prior to being used as a routine method of analysis. All the tests offered at Genetech are conducted onsite. We were named the winner of the National Science & Technology Award for Outstanding leadership in introducing advanced technologies and services presented by the National Science Foundation of Sri Lanka in 2008. Our Services View > Courses and Internships View > Research View > Our Leadership View >