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Discover our industry and laboratory-based molecular biology courses and internships for A Level, undergraduate, and graduate students. Join us at Genetech, Colombo. Courses and Internships Our vision and mission Our teaching facility is designed and organised with Dr. Maya Gunasekera’s original vision in mind, which is “anyone interested in this subject should be given the opportunity to learn it”. Therefore, we offer training programmes aimed at providing a comprehensive knowledge of basics to advanced molecular biology. This includes coursework and well-structured practical training in laboratory methods in molecular biology under the guidance of practicing scientists. Genetech School of Gene Technology offers training programmes in areas including disease diagnostic methods of molecular medicine for medical officers, forensic DNA typing for medico-legal personnel, laboratory management for technical officers and courses on gene technology for post-Advanced Level, undergraduate and graduate level students. View FAQs Hear from our students A large number of undergraduate and graduate level students have undergone training at Genetech as interns and research students. At present, research students and technicians that trained at Genetech are contributing immensely to the field of Molecular Diagnostics through various organisations islandwide. Internships We offer internship opportunities for local and foreign students who wish to work in an active molecular life science facility and obtain hands-on experience in a wide range of molecular biology techniques. Furthermore, our interns will be supervised by experienced scientists to actively engage in some short-term research and devise innovative solutions to complex challenges in this field. By choosing to do an internship at Genetech, you will avail yourself of an opportunity to work in a scientific environment which is quite unique in Sri Lanka. You will be able to work alongside scientists who are amongst the most experienced personnel in the molecular life sciences and learn in an environment that is fast-paced and exciting. Being a testing laboratory, Genetech is constantly working against time to deliver molecular biology-based testing services. Being a research institute, Genetech is always keen to branch out into new areas. Being a training organisation, Genetech can provide you with an opportunity to learn from practicing scientists and be mentored by experienced teachers whilst conducting research in a well-equipped facility. Courses The objective of these courses is to give all our students a comprehensive understanding of the essential principles of the subject. It aims to give each category of students a degree of knowledge and skill which would help meet the requirements of institutes of higher education and research anywhere in the world, and also help to accelerate the career development of personnel requiring a non-professional level of skill in molecular biology, such as medical and medico-legal personnel. View our internships 5 Day Practical Training Programme for A Level Students Advanced Certificate Course in DNA Fingerprinting Industry Based Training Programme Laboratory Practical Courses for A/L Students and Teachers Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Technology Molecular Diagnostics of Infectious Diseases Certificate Course in Gene Technology If you are interested in doing an internship or course 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. Eight-Week Programme - LKR 128,000 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

Explore the extensive research contributions of Genetech Research Institute (GRI) through our journal publications and conference papers. Discover groundbreaking studies in genetic polymorphisms, kinship analysis, and population genetics, highlighting our commitment to advancing scientific knowledge in Sri Lanka and beyond. 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 View More 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 View More

Explore Genetech’s Bird DNA Testing services, including accurate Bird DNA sexing for sex determination and Psittacine Beak and Feather Disease (PBFD) screening. Ensure the health and correct identification of your birds with reliable testing. Bird DNA Testing Bird DNA Sexing Read More Read More Psittacine Beak & Feather Disease (PBFD) Read More Read More

Explore Genetech’s comprehensive FAQs to learn about our diverse internships, training programmes, and courses in Molecular Biology and Gene Technology. Find out about eligibility, fees, schedules, and more. Frequently Asked Questions What are the internships/training programmes/courses currently being offered at Genetech? A summary of the internships/training programmes/courses offered is given in the following document. Are foreigners eligible to enrol in an internship/training programme/course at Genetech? Is there a difference in programme/course fee? Yes, we warmly welcome students from all over the world to enrol in our internships/training programmes/courses. For international students requiring a visa to enter Sri Lanka, we would be delighted to provide a letter confirming your enrolment. There is no difference in the fee charged. What is the duration of the internships/programmes/courses offered and on what days will these be conducted? They are normally held on consecutive working days over the stipulated duration (excluding holidays and weekends) from 9.30am to 4.30pm. *Please note that there can be slight modifications to the times and dates specified. What are the prerequisite qualifications required to enrol in an internship/training programme/course at Genetech? No prerequisite qualifications are required to enrol in any internship/training programme/course at Genetech. Enrolment can be done by paying the required fee on or before the starting date and filling in a form with your details on the starting date. Do you charge an extra registration fee? No, 10% of the final fee is normally taken as the registration fee in order to reserve your place for the relevant internship/programme/course as limited places will be available, this fee is non-refundable and needs to be paid before five working days of the scheduled start date. Do you offer any paid internships or any training programmes/courses free of charge or discounted rates? No, we do not offer any paid internships or training programmes/courses free of charge or at discounted rates. Do you offer accommodation, meals and/or transport services for trainees/interns? We do not offer accommodation, meals or transport services to participants at this time. How can I receive more information or ask specific questions about the available internships/training programmes/courses at Genetech? Further queries can be sent to the Genetech School of Gene Technology by contacting +94112696992 or via the official email address info@genetechsrilanka.com . Can I carry out my research work at Genetech? Yes, we can provide the facilities to accommodate undergraduate, postgraduate and PhD research work related to the Molecular Biology and Gene Technology. Do you offer acceptance letters for visa applications? Yes, contact info@genetechsrilanka.com for more information.

Discover affordable DNA sequencing services in Sri Lanka with Genetech. Explore CES and NGS for PCR products, plasmid DNA, bacterial and fungal colonies, with post-sequencing analysis options. DNA Sequencing Genetech is an authorised agent for a world-leading company of genomic analysis which provides a wide variety of services including DNA sequencing and oligo nucleotide synthesis. This has enabled Genetech to provide the following services to Sri Lanka at an affordable price range. DNA Sequencing services Capillary Electrophoresis Sequencing CES analyses DNA sequences using Big Dye chemistry (Sanger Sequencing) and the ABI 3730xl analyser. CES can be performed either in individual PCR tubes or in 96 well plates for high throughput sequencing. The reaction can be conducted using both universal as well as custom made primers. The method is commonly used to sequence relatively shorter fragments of DNA for a variety of purposes. Sequencing of PCR products and plasmid CES is generally used for sequencing of PCR products and plasmid DNA up to 1,000 bp in length. A special CES service is also available for the ‘difficult sequencing’ such as high GC rich DNA, homopolymers, repetitive sequences and those with strong secondary structures. In addition, we accept the unamplified DNA and unprocessed biological samples for sequencing services. We also undertake to sequence PCR products containing nonspecific bands. Upon request, post sequence analysis (sequence alignments, phylogenetic tree construction, genome annotation etc.) services are also available to help the researchers interpret the results. Sequencing bacterial and fungal colonies 16S r-RNA gene sequencing is a common method used to identify bacterial species. As per the customer requirement, we undertake to sequence different length options up to 1400 bp. For the sequencing of fungal colonies, we provide three options: 18S rRNA gene (> 1,600 bp guaranteed), 26S rRNA gene (> 1,300 bp guaranteed) and ITS region (> 500 bp guaranteed). We also offer post-sequencing analysis services to assist species identification. Next-Generation Sequencing NGS, massively parallel or deep sequencing are related terms that describe a DNA sequencing technology which has been developed for genomic research during recent years. The technology performs parallel sequencing of millions of DNA fragments which are assembled into single genome using bioinformatics analysis. In contrast to the first-generation Sanger sequencing technology, NGS provides a much more efficient tool enabling the sequencing of the entire human genome within a single day. We offer numerous NGS sequencing techniques such as Whole Genome Sequencing, Metagenome Sequencing, Exome Sequencing, Transcriptome Sequencing and Epigenome Sequencing. Different NGS platforms are available to meet the varying requirement of these techniques. Our scientists will help you choose the best NGS option and platforms depending on your requirement. We also offer to assist in the bioinformatics analysis of NGS data. Contact us

Explore Genetech-funded MPhil and MSc projects in Sri Lanka, focusing on Brucella detection, Aedes aegypti genetics, and coconut population structure. Uncover groundbreaking research and advancements! 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.

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

Accurate Bird DNA Sexing for breeders, pet owners, and conservationists. Non-invasive, 99.9% accurate testing with quick, reliable results. Submit your sample today! 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

Explore our 5-day practical training programme. Designed for A Level Students, it covers Molecular Diagnostics, DNA Fingerprinting, and more. Ideal for those planning to join universities worldwide. 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

Explore Genetech’s trailblazing molecular diagnostics in Sri Lanka, accredited with ISO 15189. Specializing in PCR-based detection of viral, bacterial, and other infectious diseases, genetic disorders, and cancer markers since 2002. Molecular Diagnostics Did you know? We pioneered the use of molecular diagnostics in Sri Lanka. This field, which was almost unknown to the medical fraternity in Sri Lanka is now widely used in delivering high quality patient management. Molecular diagnostics is now an accepted and even essential part of the health care system since it was introduced to Sri Lanka by us in 2002. How we strengthened our clients' trust In order to standardise our tests and strengthen our clients' trust, We have applied for and obtained ISO 15189 accreditation. Thus, our tests including those related to molecular disease diagnostics are excellent in all aspects. The importance of nucleic acids Infectious diseases are caused by a wide variety of organisms, ranging from multi-cellular parasites and fungi to uni-cellular bacteria to non-cellular viruses. These organisms cover a wide range of phyla, and have extremely diverse ways of infecting human beings. In spite of these differences, they all possess nucleic acids (DNA or RNA molecules), their hereditary material. This DNA or RNA forms the basis of their individuality, and because it is the basis of diversity, it is possible to identify these organisms from their DNA or RNA. What we offer with PCR technology Unlike other diagnostic methods, which rely on microscopy, culture, biochemical characteristics and indirect antibody detection, molecular diagnostics seeks evidence of a disease at the very basic causative level by detecting the nucleic acids based on PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) technology. This technology is also used to detect changes or mutations in our DNA, which can cause disease conditions known as genetic disorders. While some of these genetic disorders are passed from generation to generation, some happen spontaneously. Genetech offers DNA-based testing services for a wide variety of such genetic disorders and cancer markers. Contact us View Price List and Sample Collection Guide

Discover Genetech’s legacy through Dr. Maya Gunasekera’s vision, leading Sri Lanka in biotech and forensic innovation. Our Leadership 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. READ MORE 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. READ MORE 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. READ MORE Samudi Mohotti Senior Scientist Samudi Mohotti commenced her professional career at Genetech as a Scientific Officer at the division of parentage testing in 2004. In subsequent years, she was promoted to the post of Senior Scientist and currently oversees the entire process of parentage testing. She is one of the most experienced scientists in the field of DNA typing and has contributed to submit over 3,000 DNA test reports for civil and criminal cases to the Sri Lankan Judiciary. She took part in the development of an allele frequency databases of autosomal STR markers for Sri Lankans ethnicities and co-authored a journal paper in a high-impact journal, Forensic Science International: Genetics. READ MORE