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- About us | Genetech
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 >
- Maya Gunasekera | Genetech
Dr. Maya Gunasekera Founder of Genetech 1961 - 2006 Dr. Maya Gunasekera founded Genetech in 2002 to develop the field of biotechnology in Sri Lanka. She pioneered the use of DNA testing in forensic casework in Sri Lanka, and was involved in almost all DNA typing tests done in Sri Lanka until the time of her death. Research teams led by Maya developed the first DNA probe for the malaria vector, Anopheles culicifacies, introduced a new molecular test for the early diagnosis of dengue, pioneered genetic work on the Sri Lankan elephant and resolved the taxonomic status of a fruit bat species complex. In 1999, Maya gave expert evidence on DNA typing for the Hokandara murder trial making history as the first court case to accept DNA evidence in Sri Lanka. Maya had been involved in many national and international ventures. She served as a consultant for several committees of the Government Ministries, including the National Task force for Dengue prevention and control. At the National Science Foundation, Colombo, she served as the Chairperson of the Working Committee on Biotechnology. She also served as the Governor for International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology (ICGEB) representing Sri Lanka, and as the coordinator for the drafting of National Policy and Guidelines for the safe use of Recombinant DNA Technology in Sri Lanka. Maya was not only a dedicated researcher but also an excellent teacher. As a senior lecturer in the Department of Chemistry, she co-coordinated the development of the syllabus for the first BSc Special degree programme in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry offered at a university in Sri Lanka. She taught people from various walks of life and delivered numerous lectures to police officers, lawyers, doctors and school children. She primarily focused on teaching and sharing her expertise on the application of DNA technology. Even when she was not in the best of health, she continued to do her duty towards society with immense courage and dedication. She received many awards in appreciation of her work both by local and international bodies. The International Foundation for Science in Sweden awarded their Jubilee Award to Maya in 2003 in recognition of her work. The Third World Academy of Sciences, Italy and the NSF, Colombo together awarded her the Young Scientist Award in Biology in 2002. Maya received one of the David Fussy Alumni scholarships, granted to only three persons per year from all the Commonwealth countries. Subsequently, she obtained a PhD in Molecular Parasitology from the National Institute for Medical Research in Mill Hill, London. The award for excellence in research by the University of Colombo, NSF – Sri Lanka Merit Award for Biotechnology, British Council Assert Award and President’s Research Bonus Award were also among the long list of her achievements. Prior to obtaining her PhD, Maya studied at Visakha Vidyalaya, Colombo and obtained her BSc degree with First Class Honours from the University of Colombo. She also worked as a Research Assistant at the Malaria Research Unit of the Department of Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo. Anchor 1
- Industry Based Training Programme | Genetech
Industry Based Training Programme What our programme offers This is a programme designed to provide practical training in the applications of Molecular Diagnostics and basic methods in gene technology. It will consist of some lectures to provide students with the necessary theory to understand the applications of these topics, practicals to receive hands-on experience in laboratory techniques and demonstrations covering topics in these subject areas. Duration and fees The programme will run from 9.00 am to 4.00 pm for 10 consecutive weekdays as a full-time programme. It will not be possible to complete this programme part-time. The programme fee will be Rs. 64,500 which is to be paid before the registration in order to confirm your participation and reserve your place. Places will be offered on a first come first served basis. For whom? This programme will be beneficial to students awaiting entry to tertiary education programmes (university) as well as for students that are currently enrolled in or have completed such programmes. Email now If you are interested in participating in this training programme, send us an email with your details to info@genetechsrilanka.com View FAQs Contact us View Inquiry Form
- Molecular Biological Techniques Course | Genetech
Intensive Practical Course in Molecular Biological Techniques (60 hours) This intensive training course provides a thorough hands on experience in key molecular biological techniques used in various fields of biological, medical and forensic sciences. The course is primarily aimed at individuals who are new to the area, theoretically familiar but lacking in practical bench training or wishing to enhance their practical skills further. At the end of the course, the participants will be able to acquire an adequate level of proficiency to allow for the troubleshooting and optimisation of routine laboratory protocols to promote timeliness and cost effectiveness. All practical work is conducted individually with the guidance of experienced persons in the relevant field. When? This course will run from 9.00am to 4.00pm for 10 consecutive weekdays as a full-time programme. Course dates: TBD For whom? Senior and junior researchers who wish to establish in the field of molecular biology Post A/L students interested in pursuing future studies in biological/biomedical sciences and/or forensic sciences Individuals who seek career opportunities in medical diagnostic laboratories and forensic DNA laboratories Those who wish to complement their knowledge in modern molecular biological techniques (e.g., medical doctors, medical laboratory technicians, forensic analysts, industry persons) Techniques Covered Cloning techniques: Isolation of plasmid DNA, Restriction enzyme digestion and transformations DNA extraction techniques: Isolation of human genomic DNA from blood and forensic samples, Bacterial/Viral DNA and Plant DNA RNA work: Isolation/purification and reverse transcriptase PCR assays Polymerase Chain Reaction: Technical elements and critical factors for successful PCR-based procedures, Multiplex PCR, Real Time PCR and PCR with RFLP Gel Electrophoresis: Agarose and polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, automated capillary electrophoresis Course Fee Rs. 75,000 per person View FAQs Contact us If you are interested in doing this course at Genetech, please email us at info@genetechsrilanka.com to receive further details.
- Journal Publications - Page 3 | Genetech
Weiskopf, D., Bangs, D. J., Sidney, J., Kolla, R. V., De Silva, A. D., de Silva, A. M., Crotty, S., Peters, B. & Sette, A. (2015) Dengue virus infection elicits highly polarized CX3CR1+ cytotoxic CD4+ T cells associated with protective immunity. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA. 112(31), E4256-E4263. Available from: doi: 10.1073/pnas.1505956112 Krishnananthasivam, S., Fernando, A. N., Tippalagama, R., Tennekoon, R., De Man, J., Seneviratne, D., Premawansa, S., Premawansa, G. & De Silva, A. D. (2015) Evaluation of a commercial rapid test kit for detection of acute dengue infection. Southeast Asian Journal of Tropical Medicine and Public Health. 46(4), 602-610. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/280836227_Evaluation_of_a_commercial_rapid_test_kit_for_detection_of_acute_dengue_infection Sathkumara, H. D., De Silva, N. R., Handunnetti, S. & De Silva, A. D. (2015) Genetics of common variable immunodeficiency: role of transmembrane activator and calcium modulator and cyclophilin ligand interactor. Int J Immunogenet. 42(4), 239-253. Available from: doi: 10.1111/iji.12217 Tillekeratne, L., Bodinayake, C., Nagahawatte, A., Vidanagama, D., Devasiri, V., Kodikara Arachchi, W., Kurukulasooriya, R., De Silva, A. D., Østybe, T., Reller, M. E. & Woods, C. W. (2015) An Under-Recognized Influenza Epidemic Identified by Rapid Influenza Testing, Southern Sri Lanka, 2013. American journal of tropical medicine and hygiene . 92(5), 1023-1029. Available from: doi: 10.4269/ajtmh.14-0708 Jayawardana, W. A. D., Jayasekera, G. A. U., Wijesundara, R. L. C., Dissanayake, D. M. N., Sooriyapathirana, S. D. S. S., Webadde, C. K., Perera, K. L. N. S., Gunapala, K. R. D. & Hettige, P. (2014). “Evaluation of DNA markers Linked to Blast Resistance Genes Pikh, Pitp and Pita for parental selection in Sri Lankan Rice Breeding”. Tropical Agricultural Research. 26(1), 82-95. Available from: doi: 10.4038/tar.v26i1.8074 Kamaral, L. C. J., Perera, S. A. C. N., Perera, K. L. N. S. & Dasanayake, P. N. (2014). Genetic Diversity of the Sri Lanka Yellow Dwarf Coconut Form as Revealed by Microsatellite Markers. Tropical Agriculture Research. Vol. 26 (1): 131-139. Available from: doi: 10.4038/tar.v26i1.8078 Weiskopf, D., Angelo, M. A., Bangs, D. J., Sidney, J., Paul, S., Peters, B., De Silva, A. D., Lindow, J. C., Diehl, S. A., Whitehead, S., Durbin, A., Kirkpatrick, B. & Sette, A. (2014) The Human CD8+ T Cell Responses Induced by a Live Attenuated Tetravalent Dengue Vaccine Are Directed against Highly Conserved Epitopes. J Virol. 89(1), 120-8. Available from: doi: 10.1128/JVI.02129-14 Corbett, K. S., Katzelnick, L., Tissera, H., Amerasinghe, A., de Silva, A. D. & de Silva A. M. (2014) Preexisting Neutralising Antibody Responses Distinguish Clinically Inapparent and Apparent Dengue Virus Infections in a Sri Lankan Pediatric Cohort. J Infect Dis. 211(4), 590-599. Available from: doi: 10.1093/infdis/jiu481 Tissera, H., Amarasinghe, A., De Silva, A. D., Kariyawasam, P., Corbett, K. S., Katzelnick, L., Tam, C., Letson, G. W., Margolis, H. S. & de Silva, A. M. (2014) Burden of Dengue Infection and Disease in a Pediatric Cohort in Urban Sri Lanka. American Journal of Tropical Medicine & Hygiene . 91(1), 132-137. Available from: doi: 10.4269/ajtmh.13-0540 Ocwieja, K. E., Fernando, A. N., Sherrill-Mix, S., Sundararaman, S. A., Tennekoon, R. N., Tippalagama, R., Krishnananthasivam, S., Premawansa, G., Premawansa, S. & De Silva, A. D. (2014) Phylogeography and Molecular Epidemiology of an epidemic strain of Dengue Virus Type 1 in Sri Lanka. American Journal of Tropical Medicine & Hygiene . 91(2), 225-234. Available from: doi: 10.4269/ajtmh.13-0523 Calis, J. J. A., Maybeno, M., Greenbaum, J. A., Weiskopf, D., De Silva, A. D., Sette, A., Kesmir, C. & Peters, B. (2013) Properties of MHC Class I Presented Peptides That Enhance Immunogenicity. PLoSComputBiol 9(10): e1003266. Available from: doi: 10.1371/journal.pcbi.1003266 Tissera, H. A., Amarasinghe, A., de Silva, A. M., Tam, C. C., De Silva, A. D., Letson, G. W. & Margolis, H. S. (2013) Surveillance of dengue in a community cohort in Metropolitan Colombo, Sri Lanka: part I methods and study population. Dengue Bulletin. 37, 141-159. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Anun_Chaikoolvatana/publication/266919317_GIS_Based_Surveillance_to_Support_DHF_Control_in_Thailand_from_2009_to_2011/links/543f70430cf21c84f23cd2d0.pdf#page=149 Tissera, H. A., Amarasinghe, A., de Silva, A. M., De Man, J. & De Silva, A. D. (2013) A comparison of an in-house IgM and IgG assay with a commercial Panbio kit, in a paediatric cohort in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Dengue Bulletin . 37, 101-106. Available from: http://apps.who.int/iris/bitstream/handle/10665/204944/B5077.pdf;jsessionid=020BC61ACDC2C27C6A59AA5E97637C71?sequence=1 Tam, C. C., Tissera, H., de Silva, A. M., De Silva, A. D., Margolis, H. S. & Amarasinge, A. (2013) Estimates of dengue force of infection in children in Colombo, Sri Lanka. PLoSNegl Trop Dis. 7(6):e2259. Available from: doi: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0002259 Weiskopf, D., Angelo, M. A., de Azeredoa, E. L., Sidney, J., Greenbaum, J. A., Fernando, A. N., Broadwater, A., Kolla, R. V., De Silva, A. D., de Silva, A. M., Mattia, K. A., Doranz, B. J., Grey, H. M., Shresta, S., Peters, B. & Sette, A. (2013) Comprehensive analysis of dengue virus-specific responses supports an HLA-linked protective role for CD8+ T cells. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA . Available from: doi: 10.1073/pnas.1305227110 Rathnayake, N. R. M. K. N. D., Bentota, A. P., Dissanayake, D. M. N., Perera, K. L. N. S., Sooriyapathirana, S. D. S. S. & Jayasekera, G. A. U. (2012) DNA Markers RM 464A and RM 219 Haplotypes are Effective in Selecting Sub-1 locus for the Introgression of Submergence Tolerance into New Rice Varieties. Ceylon Journal of Science (Bio. Sci.) 41 (2): 125-136. Available from: doi: 10.4038/cjsbs.v41i2.5382 Tissera, H. A., Ooi, E. E., Gubler, D. J., Tan, Y., Logendra, B., Wahala, M. P. B. W., de Silva, A. M., Abeysinghe, M. R. N., Palihawadana, P., Gunasena, S., Tam, C. C., Amarasinghe, A., Letson, G. W., Margolis, H. S. & De Silva, A. D. (2011) New dengue virus type 1 genotype in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Emerging Infectious Diseases. 17(11), 2053-2055. Available from: doi: 10.3201/eid1711.101893 Weiskopf, D., Yauch, L. E., Angelo, M. A., John, D. V., Greenbaum, J. A., Sidney, J., Kolla, R. V., De Silva, A. D., de Silva, A. M., Grey, H., Peters, B., Shresta, S. & Sette, A. (2011) Insights into HLA-Restricted T Cell Responses in a Novel Mouse Model of Dengue Virus Infection Point toward New Implications for Vaccine Design. J. Immunol. Available from: doi: 10.4049/jimmunol.1101970 Malavige, G. N., Rostron, T., Rohanachandra, L. T., Jayaratne, S. D., Fernando, N., De Silva, A. D., Liyanage, M. & Ogg, G. (2011) HLA Class I and Class II Associations in Dengue Viral Infections in a Sri Lankan Population. PLoS ONE 6(6): e20581. Available from: doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0020581 Seneviratne, D. B., Amuduwage, S., Weerasingam, S. & Fernandopulle, N. D. (2010) Hepatitis C virus in healthy blood donors in Sri Lanka. Asian Journal of Transfusion Science. Available from: doi: 10.4103/0973-6247.75976 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. (2010) Dengue Surveillance in Colombo, Sri Lanka: Baseline seroprevalence among children. Procedures in Vaccinology 2: 2010) 109-112. Available from: doi: 10.1016/j.provac.2010.03.020 Illeperuma, R. J., Markalanda, D., Fernanadopulle, N. D. & Ratnasooriya, W. D. (2010). Genetic variation at 11 autosomal STR loci in the aboriginal people, the Veddahs of Sri Lanka. Forensic Science international: Genetics 4 (2010) 142. Available from: doi: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2009.05.007 Illeperuma, R. J., Markalanda, D., Mountain, J. L., Ratnasooriaya, W. D., Fernandopullae, N. D. & Bamshad, M. J. (2010) Haplotype data for 12 Y-chromosome STR loci of Sri Lankans. Forensic Science international: Genetics 4 (2010) e119e120. Available from: doi: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2009.10.003 Kanakaratne, N., Wahala, W. M. P. B., Messer, W. B., Tissera, H. A., Shahani, A., Abeysinghe, N., Thevanesam, V., de Silva, A. M. & Gunasekera, M. (2009) Severe dengue epidemics in Sri Lanka: 2003-2006. Journal of CDC-Emerging Infectious Diseases. 15 (2). Available from: doi: 10.3201/eid1502.080926 Illeperuma, R. J., Mohotti, S. N. K., De Silva, M. T., Fernandopulle, N. D. & Ratnasooriya, W. D. (2008) Genetic Profile of 11 Autosomal STR Loci Among the Four Major Ethnic Groups in Sri Lanka, Forensic Science International: Genetics 3 (3): 105-106. Available from: doi: 10.1016/j.fsigen.2008.10.002 Senevirathna, D., Ranaweera, D., Abeysekera, D., Kanakarathana, N., De Silva, D., Abeysundara, S., Samaraweera, P., Jayasinghe, S. & Fernandopulle, N. (2008) Genotypes of hepatitis C virus (HCV) in liver disease patients in Sri Lanka. Southeast Asian J Trop Med Public Health. 2008 Nov;39(6):1054-6. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19062694/ Page 3 of 3 Journal Publications 1 2 3
- Ethical Guidelines | Genetech
Ethical Guidelines DNA typing is performed ethically only with the informed consent of the individual whose DNA is being typed. The persons concerned will be informed about the consequences of the test. Where such consent cannot be given such as in the case of minors, the consent of the guardian has to be obtained. We will not undertake samples for parentage testing without written consent from all living parties who will be tested. In the instance of criminal casework, we adhere to provisions in the Law, with respect to taking samples from suspects, victims and other living individuals involved in the case. Strict confidentiality will be maintained at all times with respect to individuals being tested. The results of DNA typing tests and the conclusions drawn from them will be divulged only to the persons being tested, and Courts of Law which order such tests. The test result will be given in a numerical format; a Scientist from Genetech will interpret the results, drawing a clear, unambiguous conclusion, and express it in simple terms. DNA typing is performed by analysing non-coding regions of an individual's DNA. It does not give the analyst any information about the ethnicity, race, social background, physical or mental make up of that person. Therefore, no other genetic information will be retrieved from an individual's DNA.
- DNA Typing | Genetech
DNA Typing Our passion to improve We pioneered the use of DNA typing for human identification for forensic casework and analysis of family relationships including parentage testing. We are a major supplier of this technology to the medico-legal community and the judicial system in Sri Lanka. Our reputation for integrity and reliability has made us the main provider of forensic DNA testing in the country. Over 4000 cases of disputed parentage and another 4000 criminal cases have had the advantage of DNA evidence through Genetech. What is DNA typing? DNA typing is a method of identifying individuals from the differences in their DNA. It is used for forensic casework as well as for determining familial relationships between individuals including paternity, maternity and siblingship. Advantages of DNA typing The science of DNA typing relies on technology that allows an individual's DNA to be examined and analysed. A person's DNA is unique: no two individuals (with the exception of identical twins) have the same DNA. Every cell in a person's body has the same DNA. Hence, DNA taken from any part of the body from the same individual will always be the same. DNA typing can be performed from many types of biological specimens including blood, saliva, sperm cells, muscle, teeth and bones. Thus, a person's DNA can be typed from very little tissue or body fluid. DNA typing is used for two major purposes: Identification of individuals from biological samples: This is mainly done in forensic casework, where it is possible to determine the identity of a criminal by typing the DNA left behind at the scene of the crime. Determination of familial relationships: This includes paternity testing, maternity testing, sibling testing, grand-parent testing, and even the identification of mutilated bodies. DNA typing is the best method of identifying individuals and determining familial relationships due to many reasons. It is extremely sensitive: with even a very small amount of tissue, the test can be performed successfully. It is also very accurate: it can give a test result with a very high degree of certainty. It is very reliable: the likelihood of obtaining a false result can be minimised, and the likelihood of making an error in the conclusion can be calculated. How does DNA typing work? In the DNA typing process, a DNA banding pattern or profile of an individual is first obtained from a tissue sample. The DNA profile is observed in the form of a set of DNA bands known as alleles. Each person has a maximum of two specific alleles for a given genetic location. This DNA profile is compared with the profile obtained from a sample taken from the scene of a crime. If the alleles in the two profiles match, then it can be said that the sample taken from the scene of the crime is from the individual that was tested. DNA typing services Child custody and maintenance: In cases where one parent is claiming the custody and maintenance of a child and the other parent is refusing to accept parentage. Proof of adultery: Especially in divorce cases where the paternity of the child is suspect, and the wife is being accused of adultery, DNA typing can be used to determine whether the husband is the father of the child. View all Cost We are happy to announce that after much research and optimisation, we have streamlined our DNA typing methods, and we are therefore able to provide DNA typing services at a reasonable cost. We perform the same DNA typing tests which are used by internationally recognised laboratories, and maintain the same standards of quality so that the conclusions made by us can be verified by any accredited forensic DNA typing laboratory in the world. Contact us View Price List 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). Read more Accuracy of evidence DNA testing is the most accurate and reliable means of identity verification and parentage testing. The degree of accuracy of the test will depend on the genetic diversity of the Sri Lankan population as well as the number of genetic locations (STR loci) which are tested. There is no mandatory number of STR loci required for a test, but the testing of nine STR loci or more is generally considered to be sufficiently accurate. We test up to 15 STR loci. Read more Ethical Guidelines DNA typing is performed ethically only with the informed consent of the individual whose DNA is being typed. The persons concerned will be informed about the consequences of the test. Where such consent cannot be given such as in the case of minors, the consent of the guardian has to be obtained. We will not undertake samples for parentage testing without written consent from all living parties who will be tested. Read more Please contact us for personalised support on parentage and testing of other family relationships.
- Bird DNA Sexing | Genetech | Colombo, Sri Lanka
Bird DNA Sexing Why DNA Sexing Matters Accurate sex determination is essential for breeding, conservation, and pet ownership, particularly in monomorphic species where males and females appear identical. Even in species with visible differences between males and females, gender traits often develop only in adulthood. Knowing a bird’s sex is crucial for forming proper breeding pairs, helping breeders, and providing important information to pet owners and buyers before selling birds. Sample Collection Process To submit a sample for Bird DNA Sexing, follow these steps: Pluck 5-6 feathers from the bird’s chest area. Place the feathers in an envelope or a plastic zip-lock bag. Label the envelope or zip-lock bag with your bird ID (such as the bird’s name, ring number, or cage number). Complete the sample acceptance form and submit it along with the samples (available at the Genetech Reception or downloadable here ). You can submit the samples in person or by courier to: Genetech 54 Kitulwatte Road, Colombo 00800 For mail or courier submissions, place the sealed samples and completed sample acceptance form inside an envelope. We will notify you once the samples have been received. What we offer We provide 99.9% accurate molecular sexing for a wide range of bird species. Our method is non-invasive, typically using feathers, though blood and other tissues are also accepted. The process is quick, efficient, and cost-effective, delivering reliable results for bird owners, breeders, and conservationists. Contact us View Price List Sample Acceptance Sheet
- Accuracy of Evidence | Genetech
Accuracy of evidence DNA testing is the most accurate and reliable means of identity verification and parentage testing. The degree of accuracy of the test will depend on the genetic diversity of the Sri Lankan population as well as the number of genetic locations (STR loci) which are tested. There is no mandatory number of STR loci required for a test, but the testing of nine STR loci or more is generally considered to be sufficiently accurate. We test up to 15 STR loci. Accuracy in a test of familial relationships: A paternity or maternity test can prove with 100% certainty that an individual is not the biological parent of a child. However, no DNA test available can prove with 100% certainty that a man or woman is the biological parent of a child. Generally, a degree of certainty of over 99% is required to accept the paternity or maternity of an individual. DNA testing by Genetech typically proves paternity with at least 99.99% certainty. This is well in excess of the required accuracy. Accuracy in criminal casework: In criminal casework, the demand for accuracy is greater, and the forensic scientist has to prove beyond a doubt that a suspect's DNA profile matches with that of the criminal. This involves expressing the probability of finding a random person in the population who might have this same profile. This probability is known as the Match Probability. This probability must be very low. When the Match Probability is lower, the accuracy of the conclusions of the DNA test is greater. There is no internationally agreed lower limit for this probability, but the result is generally accepted if it is lower than 1 in 1 billion. At Genetech, a sufficient number of loci can be tested to ensure that the Match Probability is lower than 1 in 10 billion.
- Collaborative Projects | Genetech
Collaborative Projects How projects initiated under this scheme work Projects initiated under this scheme will be considered formal research collaborations between GRI and the external researcher. The external researcher and GRI will agree on a time frame, scope of work, and budget for the project. An agreement will be signed between GRI and the external researcher spelling out these details. Technical services and laboratory work may be performed in either of the following ways subject to mutual agreement: By the external researcher and GRI staff. By the external researcher and a research assistant appointed by the external researcher. Budgeting and authorship Budgeting for this type of project will take the following into consideration: Chemicals and consumables Technical Personnel fees (if done by GRI staff) Equipment fees Bench fees Overhead charges GRI scientists will be co-authors of any publications or presentations that are generated by the project. A list of collaborative projects funded by external sources is given below. Risk factors for dengue hemorrhagic fever in Sri Lanka. FIRCA Grant, National Institutes of Health (NIH), USA. Pediatric dengue surveillance in Colombo. Pediatric Dengue Vaccine Initiative (PDVI), South Korea. Funded by Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Genetic identification of vertebrate species in Sri Lanka using DNA barcoding. Funded by an ADB project through the Open University of Sri Lanka. Cross reactivity and prophylactic activity of HLA restricted Dengue 2 and Dengue 3 T cell responses. Funded via a contract grant (National Institutes of Health (NIH), USA) awarded to the La Jolla Institute of Allergy and Immunology. The Dengue Population Genetics Program: The project aimed to assess genetic variants associated with dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). Funded via a contract grant (NIH/NIAID) awarded to McMaster University, Canada. National Dengue Surveillance Project: The project aimed to perform surveillance for dengue in Sri Lanka. Funded by the European Union/ Ministry of Health, Sri Lanka. Sequencing of current circulating dengue viruses in Sri Lanka and correlating them with the specific dengue epitopes with T cell responses from dengue patients. Funded by the National Science Foundation, Sri Lanka. Studies on Melioidosis patients and the infecting Burkholderiapseudomallei strains in Sri Lanka. Funded by the US Army Medical Research & Material Command (USAMRMC). The identification of HLA class I and class II T cell epitopes from dengue virus. Funded by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), USA.
- Our Values | Genetech
Our Values Positivity Our commitment to sustain a positive environment for our employees as well as our clients is one of the key factors that set us apart from our competitors. We believe it is essential to encourage people to let go of their past unfavourable experiences and eliminate any pessimistic thoughts about their future. This provides them the opportunity to enjoy the present moment without any distractions, irrespective of the circumstances. Furthermore, it bolsters employee confidence and morale, allowing a highly efficient working culture to be established. The key steps to being always happy involve forgiving others and yourself for any mistakes they or you have made and appreciating the uncertainty of the future as well as the imperfections around us. Thus, we strive to meet our short-term and long-term objectives by planning optimistically and effectively whilst expecting nothing in return. We believe expectations may potentially act as barriers to understanding reality and enjoying every moment, due to the unpredictable future we all have. For example, if an employee is working towards a strict deadline of a major project, they may suffer from anxiety if they start predicting the consequences of not completing their deliverables within the allocated time period. This would potentially be a hindrance to enjoying the work they carry out. Nevertheless, we always aim to exceed our clients’ expectations by offering exceptional customer service. The positive attitude our employees possess to undertake any task with great enthusiasm is what makes us very special. Collaboration Collaboration is at the core of everything we do. We enjoy interacting with various types of people whilst appreciating the cultural diversity that they bring to the community. Our employees are mentored by senior members of the company as well as junior members to guide them to achieve their career goals and provide technical knowledge where necessary. Our team is also trained to have the ability to work independently where required. We understand that every decision we make in life has pros and cons but a person with a positive attitude will be happy with whichever decision they make, provided there are no negative intentions behind the decision. We believe it is possible for any organisation to create a home away from home, if you learn to be compassionate towards others and enjoy every moment irrespective of the im perfections everyone brings to society. Excellence Delivering excellence has always been our main focus as we love inspiring and elevating the communities we touch. This includes integrating cutting-edge DNA fingerprinting technology, engaging in research and contributing to innovative, future-ready solutions, and adopting eco-friendly approaches. We transcend the industry by reimagining the possibilities of expanding our expertise, and our staff are always excited and motivated to devise solutions to complex challenges we could face. To achieve the best possible outcomes, we embrace change and enhancement where necessary, and our employees are passionate to constantly find techniques to develop the services we offer. We continually aim to enhance our work environment with the intention of ensuring our stakeholders enjoy everything we do and love everyone they meet. This stems from the priority given to mental and physical health at Genetech. Indeed, it has also made it very easy for us to grow professionally and build an excellent organisation. Integrity We always act with integrity, and we have strong moral and ethical principles to be followed at all times regardless of the consequences. We believe trust and honesty are central to integrity as well as consistency. Integrity is one of the most important assets we seek when we recruit new employees to join our team. Moreover, we make our decisions on candidates who apply for a job at Genetech based purely on their skills, passion and potential to invigorate us to move forward and achieve greater success as a biotechnology company. We also have built our customers’ trust by obtaining ISO 15189 accreditation and maintaining the standards in all aspects. We believe a workplace with employees whose actions are open and transparent is one that fosters beneficial leadership qualities in others. Treating everyone with respect is absolutely vital to us as our objective is to maintain an organisation that supports you unconditionally, regardless of differences such as sex, age, race, religion and ethnic origin.
- 5 Day Practical Training Programme | Genetech
5 Day Practical Training Programme for A Level Students Why choose this programme? The programme will consist of lectures, practicals, and demonstrations covering various topics in molecular biology, biotechnology, and gene technology. It will also provide exposure to the applications of these subjects in the fields of Molecular Diagnostics and DNA Fingerprinting as an introducti on. Who can register for this programme? This programme is specifically designed for Edexcel, Cambridge, and Local A/L Students (AS, A2 and post-A/Ls) to fulfill the basic practical experience requirements in molecular biology and gene technology applications. It is intended for students who will be applying to and awaiting entry into tertiary programmes, particularly those planning to join universities in the US, UK and other countries in the near future. Email now If you are interested in participating in this training programme, send us an email with your details to info@genetechsrilanka.com View FAQs Contact us View Inquiry Form