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Training Course in Cell Culture Techniques – 2025 August The Training Course in Cell Culture Techniques – August, 2025 was successfully organized and conducted by the Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IBMBB) – University of Colombo at the institute’s facilities from 25th to 29th August, 2025. Fifteen participants comprised of young scientists, medical officers, academic and science undergraduates attended the training course. Practical aspects of fundamental cell culture techniques were covered in the training course, which included safety precautions to maintain aseptic conditions in a cell culture laboratory, cell culture media preparation, cell counting, cell viability determination, culturing and maintenance of adherent and suspension cells, cryopreservation and thawing of preserved human cell lines, detection of apoptosis using fluorescence microscopy and DNA fragmentation, analysis of induced cytotoxicity, cell-based assays to screen anti-cancer drugs or substances, isolation and maintenance of primary cells from mouse, DNA and RNA extraction from cultured cells, and an overview of stem cells. The training course was guided and facilitated by 11 resource persons and 02 technical officers on-site. This is a great opportunity for the participants to broaden their knowledge and gain hands-on experience in the field of animal cell culture.

Training Programme on Data Analysis using SPSS Software We successfully concluded the Training Programme on Data Analysis using SPSS Software, organized by IBMBB, University of Colombo, from 11th – 15th August 2025. It was five intensive days of statistical learning and practical application, featuring comprehensive hands-on training in SPSS data analysis techniques and expert-led sessions covering everything from basic operations to advanced statistical tests. This course has been coordinated and conducted by Dr. Visula Abeysuriya, Senior Lecturer, IBMBB, University of Colombo. Participants, including faculty in other institutes, research scholars, students, and industry professionals, gained valuable analytical skills to enhance their research capabilities. For the first time, IBMBB issued newly designed E-certificates to all participants through our innovative digital verification system, allowing anyone to verify the authenticity of these credentials online. From the 32 participants, 3 randomly selected participants received physical certificates. This marks a significant step forward in our commitment to providing verified, professional development opportunities in data analysis.

Training Course in Molecular Biological Techniques We successfully concluded the Training Course in Molecular Biological Techniques, organised by IBMBB, University of Colombo, from 18th – 22nd August 2025. It was a week of cutting-edge learning and discovery, featuring extensive hands-on training in molecular biology techniques and insightful sessions led by an eminent panel of lecturers. Participants ranged from researchers, undergraduates, postgraduates, and future university entrants, all gaining valuable skills and knowledge to advance their academic and research pursuits.

Inauguration of Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology and Bioentrepreneurship The Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IBMBB), University of Colombo, ceremonially inaugurated its newly introduced Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology and Bioentrepreneurship external degree on 24th July 2025 at the IBMBB premises. The event was graced by Prof. Indika Mahesh Karunathilake, Vice Chancellor of the University of Colombo, as the Chief Guest. A number of distinguished academic and professional dignitaries were present, including Prof. Prasanna Galhena, Director of IBMBB, Prof. Guhan Jeyaraman from Indian Institute of Technology, Madras, Prof. Sun-Young Lim from Korea Maritime & Ocean University, Prof. Vajira Dissanayake, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine, and Prof. Nalin De Silva, Head of the Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Colombo. Bachelor of Science in Molecular Biology and Bioentrepreneurship is a three-year degree programme offered by IBMBB, University of Colombo focuses on transforming conceptual knowledge in life sciences into application by facilitating novel business start-ups, engagement in industry, research and development, knowledge enhancement and opening vistas for postgraduate opportunities globally. It covers a broad spectrum of disciplines, such as Molecular biology, Cell Biology, Genetics, Biochemistry, Clinical Chemistry, Biotechnology, Bioinformatics, Immunology, Bioentrepreneurship and Business Sustainability. The inauguration marked a significant milestone in strengthening interdisciplinary education, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the field of life sciences.

Training Course and Internship in SBCDD The Training Course in Structural Bioinformatics and Computational Drug Discovery, organised by the Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, was successfully conducted from 30th June to 4th July 2025 at the IBMBB premises. A total of 49 participants took part in this intensive programme. The course was led by a panel of key resource persons including Prof. Sameera Samarakoon, Dr. Kanishka Senathilake, Dr. Kanchana Senanayake, Dr. Pathum Weerawarna from the Indiana University School of Medicine, USA, and Dr. Arabinda Ghosh from Tripura University, India. This interactive training provided a valuable platform for participants to deepen their understanding of protein structure analysis and modern approaches in computational drug discovery, fostering both theoretical insights and practical skills in the field.

Awareness Program in Molecular Biology and Bio-entrepreneurship 2025 The Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IBMBB), University of Colombo, conducted an Awareness Program in Molecular Biology and Bioentrepreneurship on 6th June 2025 at its premises. The event was aimed at school leavers who are interested in careers and Entrepreneurship and Molecular Biology. A total of 41 participants attended and gained valuable insights into the field. The program featured an expert panel discussion that helped participants refine their understanding of molecular biology and bio-entrepreneurship through shared experiences and an interactive Q&A session. Prof. Prasanna Galhena (Director, IBMBB), Dr. Chandanamali Punchihewa (CEO and Chief Scientist, Genelabs Medical Pvt Ltd), Dr. Priyal Supulchandra (Assistant General Manager, FADNA Live Science Pvt Ltd), Mr. Dilip Kumar Fernando (Director, Avon Pharmachem Pvt Ltd), Dr. Narmada Fernando (Senior Lecturer, IBMBB), and Ms. Harshani Jayaweera (Assistant Registrar, IBMBB) shared their knowledge and experiences in this discussion.

Sinhala Awurudu Celebration 2025 We are proud to announce that Student Welfare Society of IBMBB successfully hosted Sinhala Awurudu Celebration on 22.04.2025 at IBMBB.

Memorandum of Understanding between University of Colombo and Genelabs Medical (Pvt) Ltd A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between GeneLabs Medical (Pvt) Ltd and the University of Colombo was signed on April 10, 2025, at the Senate Hall of the University. The agreement aims to promote collaboration, joint research activities, and the exchange of expertise and resources between the two institutions. The University of Colombo was represented by Senior Professor H. D. Karunaratne (Vice Chancellor), Ms. K. C. S. Perera (Registrar), Ms. J. T. L. Dharmasena (Bursar), Professor Prasanna Galhena (Director, Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biotechnology), Ms. K. G. I. Udayangani (Senior Assistant Registrar), Ms. S. M. Withanaarachchi (Deputy Bursar), Professor Sameera R. Samarakoon, Dr. Ruwandi Ranasignhe, and Mr. Nirmal Perera from the Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biotechnology (IBMBB). GeneLabs Medical (Pvt) Ltd was represented by Dr. Chandanamali Punchihewa (Chief Executive Officer) and Ms. Jeewani Samarasekara (Training Manager). This MoU marks an important step in strengthening the partnership between academia and industry, particularly in the field of medical research and technology.

Royalty Handover Ceremony between IBMBB and FADNA Life Science (Pvt) Ltd A ceremonial event to mark the handover of royalty payments for several products developed by the Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IBMBB), University of Colombo, and marketed by FADNA Life Science (Pvt) Ltd, was held on 10th April 2025 at the Senate Hall, University of Colombo. The royalty was officially handed over to Senior Professor H. D. Karunaratne, Vice Chancellor of the University of Colombo, by Mr. Chamendra Somathunga, Managing Director of Food & Nature (Pvt) Ltd. Representing IBMBB at the event were Prof. Prasanna Galhena (Director), Ms. K. C. S. Perera (Registrar) Ms. J T L Dharmasena (Bursar), Prof. Sameera R. Samarakoon, Dr. Ruwandi Ranasinghe, Senior Assistant Registrar Ms. K. G. I. Udayangani,  Deputy Bursar Ms. S. M. Withanaarachchi, and Mr. Nirmal Perera. Prof. M. N. Kaumal represented the University Business Linkage of the University of Colombo. FADNA Life Science (Pvt) Ltd was represented by Dr. Priyal Supulchandra (Assistant General Manager), Dr. Heshani Wathsala (Medical Officer), Ms. Rozelle Rajapaksha (Assistant Manager), Ms. Danushi Sameera (Assistant Manager), and Mr. Thanuka Ruwin and Mr. Chamika Shehan from the Marketing Department.

Inauguration of the MSC 2025 Intake (MLS and CMI) The inauguration of the Master of Science in Molecular Life Sciences (MLS) Program and the Master of Science in Cellular and Molecular Immunology(CMI) at the IBMBB, University of Colombo, was successfully held on 3rd March 2025. The event marked the commencement of these pioneering programs aiming at advancing education and research in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology and Immunology. The inauguration speech was delivered by the Vice Chancellor of the University of Colombo, Senior Professor (Chair) H.D. Karunaratne, highlighting the significance of molecular life sciences in modern scientific advancements. The ceremony was attended by esteemed faculty members and the inaugural batch of students, setting the stage for an inspiring academic journey ahead.