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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.

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 Genetech’s core values: a beacon of positivity, excellence, and integrity, driving innovation and collaboration in the biotech landscape. 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.

Join our 60-hour Intensive Practical Course in Molecular Biological Techniques at Genetech. Gain hands-on experience in cloning, DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis. Ideal for researchers, students, and professionals in biological, medical, and forensic sciences. 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.

Learn how to ace your Genetech interview: review your CV, know your qualifications, research the company and industry trends. Highlight your strengths, be authentic, dress appropriately, ask questions, and stay positive. Interview Tips The key to a successful job interview is in the preparation. Review The first thing you must do is look over your CV. If you have been invited to an interview, it is because we found your CV impressive. Qualifications It may sound simple, but know your qualifications. Interviewers will have an interest in modules you’ve covered and projects you have worked on. Think about how you can use your qualifications, skills and experience to prove that they align with our job description. Research Conduct some research about Genetech and specifically the role you are interviewing for, the interviewers will expect you to know a bit about the firm, and why you are interested in working for us. Future If you are aiming to pursue a career with Genetech, then you must have a good understanding of what is happening in the industry and how this may influence your future. Notes If it helps, you can take notes to your interview. There is nothing wrong with referring to notes but ensure you do not to read directly from them throughout the interview. Strengths We will be assessing your strengths throughout the interview. This will allow us to identify how you may perform in the role, and it makes it a much more enjoyable experience. This also provides you a great opportunity to reflect on what you are good at. At the interview, we want to get to know the real, authentic you. Thus, whilst you may want to learn about Genetech and go through your previous experiences ahead of your interview, there is no need to come with prepared responses. Furthermore, the examples you use when answering questions do not always have to be work based. Feel free to talk about relevant personal experiences where appropriate. The questions may be tapping into your strengths and there is no ‘correct’ thing to say. Thus, answer honestly based on what feels most natural to you. Impression You can create a good impression by knowing who you are going to meet and arriving on time. The interviewers will also be expecting you to wear suitable business wear. Use I Use ‘I’ instead of ‘We’ even if you talk about something you have done as a team. Keep in mind that we are interested in hearing about your achievements and what your contributions were. Body Language Maintain eye contact but you do not need to stare, and smile and enjoy your interview with a positive attitude. Moreover, relax and do not rush your answers. It is fine if you need a moment before answering a question. Be conscious of your hand use and avoid fidgeting with props, such as a notebook or pen, because it can make you lose concentration. If you make a mistake at the interview, do not worry because nobody is perfect. Worrying about your mistakes will have a negative impact on your performance. Question Do not be afraid to ask questions especially if you are not sure about something. It may demonstrate you have done your research and are genuinely interested. Be Positive Let go of the negative things in the past, aim positively but expect nothing in the future, and enjoy every moment without any attachment.

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

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 Genetech’s journal publications on genetic research and advancements in Sri Lanka, shaping the future of molecular diagnostics and biodiversity. Perera, N., Galhena, G. & Ranawaka, G. (2021) X-chromosomal STR based genetic polymorphisms and demographic history of Sri Lankan ethnicities and their relationship with global populations. Scientific Reports 11:12748. Available from: doi: 10.1038/s41598-021-92314-9 Perera, N., Galhena, G. & Ranawaka, G. (2021) Development of a 16 X-STR multiplex PCR system for kinship analysis and its applicability for the Sinhalese population in Sri Lanka. International Journal of Legal Medicine. 135:161–166. Available from: doi: 10.1007/s00414-020-02450-6 Nirmani, M. D., Perera, N. S. & Galhena, G. H. (2021) Population genetic dynamics of dengue vectors Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus in Sri Lanka: Baseline study for designing Wolbachia control method. International Journal of Tropical Insect Science. 41:1809–1821. Available from: doi: 10.1007/s42690-020-00395-2 Jayasinghearachchi, H. S., Francis, V. R., Sathkumara, H. D., Krishnananthasivam, S., Masakorala, J., Muthugama, T., De Silva, A. D. & Corea, E. M. (2021) Nonclonal Burkholderia pseudomallei Population in Melioidosis Case Cluster, Sri Lanka. Emerging Infectious Diseases. 27 (11). Available from: doi: 10.3201/eid2711.210219 Nirmani, M. D., Perera, N. S. & Galhena, G. H. (2020) The scope of Rp EPIC markers in population genetic studies: a preliminary study with dengue vectors. Journal of the National Science Foundation of Sri Lanka, 48(3): 275-288. Available from: doi: 10.4038/jnsfsr.v48i3.9311 Dharmarathne, H. A. K. M., Weerasena, O. V. D. S. J., Perera, K. L. N. & Galhena, G. (2020) Genetic characterization of Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae) in Sri Lanka based on sequence polymorphism of COI gene. Journal of Vector Borne Diseases 57 (2):151–158. Available from: doi: 10.4103/0972-9062.310871 Powell, L. A., Miller, A., Fox, J. M., Kose, N., Klose, T., Kim, A. S., Bombardi, R., Tennekoon, R. N., de Silva, A. D., Carnahan, R. H., Diamond, M. S., Rossmann, M. G., Kuhn, R. J. & Crowe, J. E. Jr. (2020) Human mAbs Broadly Protect against Arthritogenic Alphaviruses by Recognizing Conserved Elements of the Mxra8 Receptor-Binding Site. Cell Host & Microbe. 28(5), 699-711.e7. Available from: doi: 10.1016/j.chom.2020.07.008 Mutucumarana, C. P., Bodinayake, C. K., Nagahawatte, A., Devasiri, V., Kurukulasooriya, R., Anuradha, T., De Silva, A. D., Janko, M. M., Østbye, T., Gubler, D. J., Woods, C. W., Reller, M. E., Tillekeratne, L. G. & Lantos, P. M. (2020) Geospatial analysis of dengue emergence in rural areas in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. Trans R Soc Trop Med Hyg. 114(6), 408-414. Available from: doi: 10.1093/trstmh/trz123 Grifoni, A., Voic, H., Dhanda, S. K., Kidd, C. K., Brien, J. D., Buus, S., Stryhn, A., Durbin, A. P., Whitehead, S., Diehl, S. A., De Silva, A. D., Balmaseda, A., Harris, E., Weiskopf, D. & Sette, A. (2020) T Cell Responses Induced by Attenuated Flavivirus Vaccination Are Specific and Show Limited Cross-Reactivity with Other Flavivirus Species. Journal of Virology. 94(10) Available from: doi: 10.1128/JVI.00089-20 Mapalagamage, M., Handunnetti, S. M., Wickremasinghe, A. R., Premawansa, G., Thillainathan, S., Fernando, T., Kanapathippillai, K., De Silva, A. D. & Premawansa, S. (2020) High levels of Serum Angiopoietin 2/1 Ratio at the Critical Stage of Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever in Patients and Association with Clinical and Biochemical Parameters. J Clin Microbiol. 58(4). Available from: doi: 10.1128/JCM.00436-19 Nirmani M. D., Perera, K. L. N. & Galhena, G. H. (2019) Use of ovitrap surveillance to assess dengue outbreak risks in selected dengue endemic areas in Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan Journal of Biology 4(2): 32-46. Available from: doi: 10.4038/sljb.v4i2.39 Tian, Y., Seumois, G., De-Oliveira-Pinto, L. M., Mateus, J., Herrera-de la Mata, S., Kim, C., Hinz, D., Goonawardhana, N. D. S., de Silva, A. D., Premawansa, S., Premawansa, G., Wijewickrama, A., Balmaseda, A., Grifoni, A., Vijayanand, P., Harris, E., Peters, B., Sette, A. & Weiskopf, D. (2019) Molecular Signatures of Dengue Virus-Specific IL-10/IFN-g Co-producing CD4 T cells and their Association with Dengue Disease. Cell Rep. 29(13), 4482-4495.e4. Available from: doi: 10.1016/j.celrep.2019.11.098 Burel, J. G., Pomaznoy, M., Lindestam Arlehamn, C. S., Weiskopf, D., da Silva Antunes, R., Jung, Y., Babor, M., Schulten, V., Seumois, G., Greenbaum, J. A., Premawansa, S., Premawansa, G., Wijewickrama, A., Vidanagama, D., Gunasena, B., Tippalagama, R., de Silva, A. D., Gilman, R. H., Saito, M., Taplitz, R., Ley, K., Vijayanand, P., Sette, A. & Peters, B. (2019) Circulating T cell-monocyte complexes are markers of immune perturbations. Elife. Available from: doi: 10.7554/eLife.46045.001 Grifoni, A., Moore, E., Voic, H., Sidney, J., Phillips, E., Jadi, R., Mallal, S., De Silva, A. D., De Silva, A. M., Peters, B., Weiscopf, D. & Sette, A. (2019) Characterization of Magnitude and Antigen Specificity of HLA-DP, DQ, and DRB3/4/5 Restricted DENV-Specific CD4+ T Cell Responses. Front Immunol. Available from: doi: 10.3389/fimmu2019.01568 Jayasinghearachchi, H. S., Corea, E. M., Krishnananthsivam, S., Sathkumara, H. D., Francis, V. R., Abeysekere, T. R. & De Silva, A. D. (2019) Whole-Genome Sequences of Eight Clinical Isolates of Burkholderia Pseudomallei from Melioidosis Patients in Eastern Sri Lanka. Microbial Resour Announc. 8(33). Available from: doi: 10.1128/MRA.00645-19 Kose, N., Fox, J. M., Sapparapu, G., Bombardi, R., Tennekoon, R. N., De Silva, A. D., Elbashir, S. M., Theisen, M. A., Humphris-Narayanan, E., Ciaramella, G., Himansu, S., Diamond, M. S. & Crowe Jr, J. E. (2019) A lipid-encapsulated mRNA encoding a potently neutralizing human monoclonal antibody protects against chikungunya infection. Science Immunology. 4(35). Available from: doi: 10.1126/sciimmunol.aaw6647 Tian, Y., Babor, M., Lane, J., Seumois, G., Liang, S., Goonawardhana, N. D. S., De Silva, A. D., Phillips, E. J., Mallal, S. A., da Silva Antunes, R., Grifoni, A., Vijayanand, P., Weiskopf, D., Peters, B. & Sette, A. (2019) Dengue-specific CD8+ T cell subsets display specialized transcriptomic and TCR profiles. The journal of clinical investigation. 129(4), 1727-1741. Available from: doi: 10.1172/JCI123726 Vimonish, R., Galhena, G. H., Perera, K. L. N. & Magamage, M. P. S. (2018) PCR based approach for detection of bovine babesiosis in suspected carrier cattle and vector ticks in Sri Lanka. Journal of Agricultural Sciences – Sri Lanka, 13(1):55–65. Available from: doi: 10.4038/jas.v13i1.8300 Raut, R., Corbett, K. S., Tennekoon, R. N., Premawansa, S., Wijewickrama, A., Premawansa, G., Mieczkowski, P., Rückert, C., Ebel, G. D., De Silva, A. D. & de Silva, A. M. (2018) Dengue type 1 viruses circulating in humans are highly infectious and poorly neutralized by human antibodies. Proc Natl Acad Sci USA . 116(1), 227-232. Available from: doi: 10.1073/pnas.1812055115 Tillekeratne, L. G., Bodinayake, C. K., Simmons, R., Nagahawatte, A., Devasiri, V., Kodikara Arachchi, W., Nicholson, B. P., Park, L. P., Vanderburg, S., Kurukulasooriya, R., De Silva, A. D., Østybe, T., Reller, M. E. & Woods, C. W. (2018) Respiratory Viral Infection: An Underappreciated Cause of Acute Febrile Illness Admissions in Southern Sri Lanka. Am J Trop Med Hyg . 100 (3), 672-680. Available from: doi: 10.4269/ajtmh.18-0699 Grifoni, A., Costa-Ramos, P., Pham, J., Tian, Y., Rosales, S. L., Seumois, G., Sidney, J., De Silva, A. D., Premkumar, L., Collins, M. H., Stone, M., Norris, P. J., Romero, C. M. E., Durbin, A., Ricciardi, M. J., Ledgerwood, J. E., de Silva, A. M., Busch, M., Peters, B., Vijayanand, P., Harris, E., Falconar, A. K., Kallas, E., Weiskopf, D. & Sette, A. (2018) Cutting Edge: Transcriptional Profiling Reveals Multifunctional and Cytotoxic Antiviral Responses of Zika Virus-Specific CD8+ T Cells. J Immunol . 201 (12), 3487-3491. Available from: doi: 10.4049/jimmunol.1801090 Mapalagamage, M., Handunnetti, S., Premawansa, G., Thillainathan, S., Fernando, T., Kanapathippillai, K., Wickremasinghe, R., De Silva, A. D. & Premawansa, S. (2018) Is Total Serum Nitrite and Nitrate (NOx) Level in Dengue Patients a Potential Prognostic Marker of Dengue Hemorrhagic Fever. Dis Markers . Available from: doi: 10.1155/2018/5328681 Fernando, S. J. A., Faiz, N. M., Handunnetti, S. M., De Silva, A. D., Dasanayake, W. M. D. K., Wickramasinghe, G. D., Karunatilake, R. M. C. H. & de Silva, N. R. (2018) Preliminary study on chronic granulomatous disease in Sri Lanka. Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol. 14, 37. Available from: doi: 10.1186/s13223-018-0264-7 Corea, E. M., de Silva, A. D. & Thevanesam, V. (2018) Melioidosis in Sri Lanka. Trop Med Infect Dis. 3(1). Available from: doi: 10.3390/tropicalmed3010022 Bodinayake, C. K., Tillekeratne, L. G., Nagahawatte, A., Devasiri, V., Kodikara Arachchi, W., Strouse, J. J., Sessions, O. M., Kurukulasooriya, R., Uehara, A., Howe, S., Ong, X. M., Tan, S., Chow, A., Tummalapalli, P., De Silva, A. D., Østbye, T., Woods, C. W., Gubler, D. J. & Reller, M. E. (2018) Evaluation of the WHO 2009 classification for diagnosis of acute dengue in a large cohort of adults and children in Sri Lanka during a dengue-1 epidemic. PLoS Negl Trop Dis . 12(2). Available from: doi: 10.1371/journal.pntd.0006258 Montoya, M., Collins, M., Dejnirattisai, W., Katzelnick, L. C., Puerta-Guardo, H., Jadi, R., Schildhauer, S., Supasa, P., Vasanawathana, S., Malasit, P., Mongkolsapaya, J., de Silva, A. D., Tissera, H., Balmaseda, A., Screaton, G., de Silva, A. M. & Harris, E. (2018) Longitudinal Analysis of Antibody Cross-Neutralization Following Zika and Dengue Virus Infection in Asia and the Americas. J Infect Dis . Available from: doi: 10.1093/infdis/jiy164 Premkumar, L., Collins, M., Graham, S., Liou, G. A., Lopez, C. A., Jadi, R., Balmaseda, A., Brackbill, J. A., Dietze, R., Camacho, E., De Silva, A. D., Giuberti, C., Dos Reis, H. L., Singh, T., Heimsath, H., Weiskopf, D., Sette, A., Osorio, J. E., Permar, S. R., Miley, M. J., Lazear, H. M., Harris, E. & de Silva, A. M. (2018) Development of Envelope Protein Antigens To Serologically Differentiate Zika Virus Infection from Dengue Virus Infection. J Clin Microbiol . 56(3). Available from: doi: 10.1128/JCM.01504-17 Page 1 of 3 Journal Publications 1 2 3

Discover Dr. Maya Gunasekera’s legacy: the visionary who transformed Sri Lanka’s biotech landscape through DNA forensics and diagnostics at 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

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.

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