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Explore our comprehensive molecular biology internships, including disease diagnostics, DNA fingerprinting, and GM food testing. Hands-on training, expert supervision, and individual research assignments. Internship Programme on Molecular Disease Diagnostics Who Can Register: A/L, Pre-University and Undergraduate Students Our internship programme offers the flexibility to choose between two-week and six-week durations, tailored to your educational needs. Available throughout the year, this programme is designed to provide hands-on experience in molecular diagnostics, with the ability to customise based on specific requirements. Two-Week Programme: LKR 48,000 Key Focus Areas: Diagnostic Testing: 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 15189 system and planning a molecular diagnostic laboratory Six-Week Programme: LKR 96,000 Includes all components of the two-week programme. In addition, interns will undertake a four-week internship involving an individual research assignment. This project involves a literature survey, independent laboratory work, result analysis, and interpretation. Upon successful completion of the programme, interns will receive a certification letter detailing their training and experience. 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

Explore our comprehensive molecular biology internships, including disease diagnostics, DNA fingerprinting, and GM food testing. Hands-on training, expert supervision, and individual research assignments. Internship Programme in DNA Fingerprinting and Genetic Testing Who Can Register: Graduates, undergraduates, postgraduates, researchers, and A/L students This internship programme offers flexible durations of two weeks, four weeks, and six weeks. Internships are available year-round, subject to space availability, and can be customised to meet specific requirements. Programme Overview: The internship provides comprehensive training in DNA fingerprinting for forensic and kinship testing, genetic disease diagnostics, GMO testing as well as many other widely used molecular applications. Two-Week Programme – LKR 48,000.00 Laboratory exposure working alongside our scientists in areas such as molecular forensics, kinship testing, GMO testing, and genetic disease diagnostics. Hands-on experience in molecular techniques by carrying out selected test methods. Four-Week Programme – LKR 72,000.00 Includes all components of the two-week programme, with the added opportunity to conduct a short-term research project. This project focuses on applying DNA fingerprinting techniques, involving a literature review, independent lab work, and data analysis. Six-Week Programme – LKR 96,000.00 Extends the four-week programme, allowing for a more in-depth research experience, with additional time for experimental work, data interpretation, and presentation of findings. Upon successful completion of the programme, interns will receive a certification letter detailing their training and experience. 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

Meet Dr. Nandika Perera, Genetech’s expert in molecular diagnostics and DNA typing, pioneering forensic science in Sri Lanka. Dr. Nandika Perera Head of Forensic DNA Typing and Parentage Testing Dr. Nandika Perera joined Genetech in early 2004 soon after its inception and was part of the pioneering team led by late Dr. Maya Gunasekera, who introduced molecular diagnostics and DNA typing services to Sri Lanka. In subsequent years, he was promoted to the post of Senior Scientist and in 2010, he became the Head of the Parentage Testing Section. Currently, he is also the Head of Forensic DNA typing and has provided more than 2500 DNA typing reports to the Sri Lankan Judiciary. He together with his team has established several in-house molecular diagnostic tests including a test for prenatal diagnosis of thalassemia disease. More recently, he introduced X chromosome STR typing to Sri Lanka to be used in forensic and kinship analysis. The technique offers a significant advantage over the other commonly used DNA typing methods in resolving some specific cases of kinship which cannot be conclusively resolved otherwise. He is also involved in various other molecular biology related research in collaboration with many state and private universities and research institutes in Sri Lanka. His portfolio of works includes many research publications, some in the world’s leading high-impact journals such as Scientific Reports of Nature publishing group and International Journal of Legal Medicine which is testimonial of his illustrative career in the field of molecular genetics. Nandika is an alumnus of both the University of Colombo and Institute of Chemistry, Sri Lanka. He holds two Honours degrees, one in the field of Molecular Biology and Biochemistry (from University of Colombo) and the other in Chemistry (from Institute of Chemistry, Sri Lanka). He obtained his master’s degree in Molecular Life Sciences at the Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Colombo and has completed his Ph.D. in the field of Molecular Forensics at the Faculty of Health Sciences, Open University of Sri Lanka. He is the recipient of many academic awards including the Gold Medal for the best academic performance in his Master’s Degree, the award for the best performance in part 1 examination in Graduateship in Chemistry and the W. F. Peiris Memorial Scholarship in Graduateship in Chemistry.

Discover Genetech’s DNA testing accuracy for identity, parentage, and forensics, ensuring over 99.99% paternity certainty and match probabilities beyond standards. 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.

Explore diverse BSc research projects in genetics, biotechnology, and environmental science from various Sri Lankan universities, highlighting innovative studies and methodologies. 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

Explore custom oligonucleotide and gene synthesis services with various modifications, purification options, free cloning, and sequencing for 100% accuracy. Oligonucleotide and Gene synthesis We offer primer synthesis services covering different concentration scales from 0.025 to 1µmole. Different purification options using techniques such as desalt, MOPC, HPLC and PAGE are available as per requirement of the customer. We also offer primer modifications such as fluorescent labelling, non-fluorescent modifications, dark quenchers and internal modifications. Oligonucleotide/Primer synthesis Gene synthesis We offer customised gene synthesis services in a plasmid DNA state with a free cloning service, as well as free DNA sequencing to confirm the sequence of the gene. Our customised gene synthesis service offers to generate genes based on the sequence requirement of the customer. With our free cloning service, the synthesised gene is made available in a plasmid DNA state. Our free sequencing service guarantees 100% sequence accuracy. Contact us

Testimonials “Taking part in “Advanced Certificate Course in Molecular Techniques for DNA Fingerprinting” and the “Internship Program in DNA Fingerprinting and Genetic Testing” have been a great experience for me. The hands-on training and detailed theoretical knowledge that I have gained from the course is invaluable, and the internship gave me a great understanding about real-world application of molecular biology techniques. The Scientists and instructors are really supportive and helped us to understand every single concept and all the practical applications from A to Z. I specially appreciate about providing an opportunity to carry out a research project, as I think that it would help me a lot by developing my research skills, scientific writing skills and a sense of confidence which will be really important in my further education and future career. I highly recommend this Course and the Internship to anyone who is passionate in the field of molecular biology and forensics.” Malisha Appuhami Post-A/L Student “I am excited to have completed the Advanced Certificate Course in Molecular Techniques for DNA fingerprinting at Genetech School of Gene Technology! As an ISO accredited laboratory, pioneering in molecular diagnostics, the facility instructed us on the use of various cutting edge molecular techniques focusing on, but not restricted to, DNA fingerprinting. Apart from this, students were provided with clear theory behind these techniques and DNA typing processes, including their applications and suitability across different cases. Despite the focus on forensics, it was clear these techniques are highly versatile and suitable for use across various aspects of life sciences. I am happy to share that I undertook the following as part of this course: Sample collection of biological evidence for DNA extraction DNA extraction using Chelex extraction methods and column-based DNA extraction kits DNA Quantification using the NanoDrop One spectrophotometer PCR amplification of STR markers and subsequent analysis via gel electrophoresis Multiplex PCR by AmpFLSTR™Identifiler™ PCR Amplification Kit for amplification of 15 STR loci Capillary electrophoresis using the ABI Genetic Analyzer 3500 and results interpretation via GeneMapper™ID-X Software Practical analysis of results/amplified STR markers for parentage testing Plant DNA extraction via CTAB method and amplification of the trnL intron barcoding region Mitochondrial sequence analysis using Chromas and MEGA software Sequence analysis for animal and plant barcoding using NCBI BLAST Grateful to the scientists and officers at Genetech for their guidance! Looking forward to using these skills soon!” Alina Marzook “A month has passed since I completed my three-month research project at Genetech and as I reflect on my time there, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude. This lab has shaped me in ways words can’t fully express & will always hold a special place in my heart. Walking into the lab every day was an incredible experience, not only professionally but also personally. I carry with me the knowledge and skills I gained, but more importantly, the memories made through challenges, breakthroughs, and those little triumphs that followed. This lab saw my moments of doubt transform into resilience. I’m deeply grateful to my supervisors and fellow interns for their guidance and inspiration, and I’m especially thankful to my Supervisor at Genetech Madam Mrs. Sumudu Wickramasekara. Her immense support and mentorship played a pivotal role in making this research a success. The camaraderie, encouragement, and support from everyone in the lab have truly made this journey unforgettable. Though our paths may diverge for now, I hope they cross again in the future. Thank you, Genetech for everything!” A student from SLIIT "The Advanced Certificate Course in Molecular Techniques for DNA Fingerprinting and the Internship Program were exceptional experiences that exceeded my expectations. The program offered abundant hands-on training, allowing me to refine my skills in DNA fingerprinting and genetic testing while gaining exposure to the latest advancements in molecular diagnostics and forensics. The supportive and approachable staff provided personalized guidance, ensuring a deep understanding of both foundational and advanced techniques. This practical, skills-focused approach made me industry-ready, and I was able to secure a job in the same field shortly after completing the program—a true testament to its quality and relevance. This course was worth far more than the investment, offering unparalleled opportunities to improve skills, expand knowledge, and gain a competitive edge in the job market. I highly recommend it to anyone looking to advance their career in molecular biology and diagnostics." Nimasha Liyanagedara, B.Sc (Hons), M.Sc. "The Advanced Certificate Course in Molecular Techniques for DNA Fingerprinting, as well as the Internship Program at Genetech, gave a unique chance to combine theory with practical experience. Working on a project focused on Y chromosome markers for forensic and kinship applications enhanced my skills in essential molecular techniques, including DNA extraction, PCR optimization, gel electrophoresis, and result analysis. Also, the internship helped me enhance my critical thinking and problem-solving skills as we worked on a research project. I am deeply grateful to the late Dr. Maya Gunasekera, founder of Genetech, whose legacy continues to inspire students like me. Also, I’d like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Dr. K.L. Nandika Perera, senior scientist and head of the department of molecular forensics at Genetech, as well as all the forensics scientists and Genetech staff, for their continuous encouragement, time, patience, and direction during our internship and research project. Thank you, Genetech, for everything. I wholeheartedly recommend this training to anyone seeking to advance in molecular genetics and forensic DNA analysis." Shashini Kariyawasam Undergraduate Student “I have successfully completed the internship at Genetech. This experience provided invaluable hands-on molecular laboratory practice, serving as a cornerstone in my academic and professional journey. A heartfelt thanks to madam Vajirapani de Silva, Ms. Yoshitha Wahalathanthri, Mrs. Sumudu Wickramasekara, Ms Bhagya Wijeratne, Mrs. Dimanthi Vithanage and Mr. Budhil de Silva for your unwavering guidance and support. Your mentorship has been invaluable.” Chamodi Jayathissa “I’m happy to share that I’ve obtained a new certification: Molecular Techniques for DNA Fingerprinting! Special thanks to Genetech and Dr Nandika for the amazing experience!” Methuli Linara Peththawadu

Learn about Genetech’s commitment to ethical DNA typing with informed consent, strict confidentiality, adherence to legal provisions, and clear result interpretation. 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.

Explore DNA structure, genetic engineering, and practical lab techniques in this comprehensive 60-hour course. Learn about PCR, DNA fingerprinting, and more. Certificate Course in Gene Technology (48 hours) Who is this course for? This programme is tailored for Edexcel, Cambridge, and local Advanced Level students (AS, A2, and post-A/Ls), post-Ordinary Level students, and those planning to pursue higher studies in biology, biotechnology, or medicine. It offers the perfect foundation to confidently step into a university-level molecular biology programme, blending theoretical knowledge with extensive practical exposure. What you will learn 24 Hours of Multimedia-Assisted Lectures Introduction to gene technology, molecular biology and Recombinant DNA technology Proteins and proteomics DNA fingerprinting, GMOs & bioinformatics PCR, DNA sequencing & future biotech innovations 24 Hours of Hands-On Laboratory Practicals Micropipette handling & lab safety Reagent preparation & DNA extraction Spectrophotometric DNA quantification (Nanodrop) Plasmid DNA isolation & bacterial transformation Restriction Enzyme digestion & gel electrophoresis PCR (standard, multiplex) & RT-PCR Microscopy of mitotic cell division Polyacrylamide and Capillary Electrophoresis Course Highlights Learn from experienced scientists Get trained in modern molecular biology techniques Ideal for students applying to local & foreign universities Receive a certificate upon successful completion Course Duration and Fees Course Duration: 48 hours (8 days) Course Fee: LKR 48,000 per person 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

Discover Genetech’s specialized testing services: from pioneering molecular diagnostics and DNA typing in Sri Lanka to precise GM food and animal disease testing. Ensure accuracy with our PCR-based tests. 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 View Price List

Explore Dhammika Gunasekera’s journey from Royal College head prefect to Genetech’s owner and philanthropic force in Sri Lanka. Dhammika Gunasekera Owner of Genetech and Managing Trustee of Genetech Research Institute (GRI) Dhammika Gunasekera is the Owner of Genetech after the demise of his beloved wife Dr. Maya Gunasekera, the Founder of Genetech. He is also the owner of Dienge purveyors of handcrafted silver, fine art, gems and jewellery. Dhammika greatly values generosity and helps a large number of people and institutions financially. For example, he has given donations to the Sri Lanka Cancer Society, sponsored the Devapathiraja College (a school founded by his grandfather Sir Ernest De Silva) Rugby team in Rathgama, a rural area in Sri Lanka and met university tuition fees of students. He was a partner at Messrs. U. N. Gunasekera, a construction firm in Sri Lanka established by his father. The first two five-star hotels in Sri Lanka, namely, Lanka Oberoi (Cinnamon Grand) and Ceylon Inter-Continental (Kingsbury) were built by this company. He graduated from Imperial College London in 1989 with first class honours in civil engineering (BEng). Broadening his horizons to the field of accountancy, he became a passed finalist of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka in 1986. Furthermore, he topped his batch in the Bachelor of Science degree that he completed at University of Colombo in 1984. He was also the head prefect of Royal College, Colombo in 1980.

For more information, please send an email to info@genetechsrilanka.com or call +94 11 2696992. 54 Kitulwatte Road, Colombo 08, Sri Lanka +94 112696992 +94 11 2696881 Fax: +94 (0) 11 2686137 Email: info@genetechsrilanka.com Head of Forensics, Parentage Testing and DNA Typing: Dr. Nandika Perera Email: nandika@genetechsrilanka.com Head of the School of Gene Technology and Disease Diagnostics: Ms. Yoshitha Wahalathanthri Email: yoshitha@genetechsrilanka.com DNA Sequencing Services Email: sequencing.genetech@gmail.com Contact Form Name Email Contact Number Subject Message Success! Message received. Send