Archive

Innovation to Bloom 2026 celebrated the successful commercialization of a university developed seven-plant cosmetic ingredient through a landmark academia industry partnership. A significant milestone in university-led innovation and industry collaboration was celebrated at Innovation to Bloom 2026, held on 8 June at the Senate Hall. The event celebrated the successful development of a novel seven-plant cosmetic ingredient by a research team led by Professor P A Nimal Punyasiri of the Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology & Biotechnology (IBMBB), together with co-investigators Professor Kanchana Abeysekara and Professor Kaushalya Abeysekara.This research was funded by National Research Council of Sri Lanka. The event also celebrated the successful collaboration with the commercial partner, Nature’s Beauty Creations Ltd., the manufacturer of the renowned Nature’s Secrets brand, which played a pivotal role in translating the research innovation into a market-ready cosmetic ingredient. The event highlighted the successful transformation of cutting-edge university research into a commercially viable innovation with significant market potential, reinforcing the importance of academia–industry partnerships in driving innovation, value addition, and sustainable economic growth in Sri Lanka.

IBMBB Student Welfare Society Celebrates Vesak with Lantern Decoration and Ice Cream Dansal To mark the Vesak Festival, the Student Welfare Society of IBMBB organised a Vesak Lantern Decoration activity and an Ice Cream Dansal on 26th May 2026.The event brought students together to celebrate the spirit of Vesak through creativity, teamwork, and sharing. Students enthusiastically participated in decorating Vesak lanterns, creating a festive atmosphere across the institute. The Ice Cream Dansal provided a wonderful opportunity for everyone to come together, enjoy refreshments, and share in the joy of the occasion.The enthusiastic participation of students made the event a memorable celebration, highlighting the values of unity, kindness, and community that Vesak inspires. Thank you to all the students and staff who contributed to making this event a success and for helping create a warm and joyful Vesak celebration at IBMBB.

Remembering Vidya Jyothi Professor E H Karunanayake on his 1st Deaths Anniversary Colleagues and former students of late Prof Eric Karunanayake, Founder and first Director of IBMBB held a bana programme (live suthra deshana) at the Buddhist Channel to invoke merit on Prof Karunanayake on the occasion of his first death anniversary. Dharma deshana was delivered by venerable Mirahawatte Pannasiri Thero, chief prelate of the Gnanarama Meditation Centre, Thalawathugoda and Lankarama Viharaya in Dubai and Sanganayake for United Arab Emirates. Youtube A thambili gilanpasa pooja was also held at the International Institute of Theravada, Karuvalagaswewa, Anamaduwa. May all the merit we accrued aid late Prof Karunanayaka to have a happy and short sansaric journey and reach ultimate liberation of Nirvana

IBMBB Undergraduate Open Day 2026 The Undergraduate Open Day 2026 organized by the Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Undergraduate (IBMBB) was successfully held on 6th May 2026 at the IBMBB premises, welcoming 52 participants interested in exploring the institute’s academic opportunities. The event was specially organized for prospective students seeking information about the Undergraduate Program in Molecular Biology and Bioentrepreneurship. This event also provided participants with the opportunity to interact with academics and gain insight into the institute’s facilities and student experience.

22nd Anniversary Bana Programe The IBMBB organized a bana programe to commemorate the 22nd anniversary of the IBMBB on 28th April 2026. The programme was a moment to honor the journey and achievements of the institute and invoke blessings on departed former staff members, including Founder Director and Emeritus Professor Eric Karunanayake, Former Director Prof Shiroma Handunnetti, Former BoM member and acting director Prof Rezvi Sheriff, former BOM member Emeritus Professor Ira Thabrew , Mrs Nalini Jayasekera as well as students who are no longer with us.

The Inauguration Ceremony of the Master of Science in Molecular Life Sciences (MLS) and the Master of Science in Cellular and Molecular Immunology (CMI) The Inauguration Ceremony of the Master of Science in Molecular Life Sciences (MLS) and the Master of Science in Cellular and Molecular Immunology (CMI) programs at the Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IBMBB), University of Colombo, was successfully held on 3rd March 2026. This significant occasion marked the beginning of two pioneering postgraduate programs designed to strengthen advanced education and research in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, and Immunology, paving the way for future scientific innovation and discovery. The inaugural address was delivered by Prof. Sampath Punchihewa, Acting Vice Chancellor and Dean, Faculty of Law, University of Colombo, who emphasised the importance of molecular life sciences in addressing modern scientific challenges. Adding inspiration to the event, Prof. Nalin de Silva, Chair, Senior Professor and Head of the Department of Chemistry at the Faculty of Science, University of Colombo, delivered a motivational address, encouraging students to pursue scientific excellence and innovation. The ceremony was graced by the Prof Prasanna Galhena/Director, distinguished faculty members, staff and the inaugural cohort of students, marking the beginning of an exciting and transformative academic journey at IBMBB.

We are delighted to announce that IBMBB’s Annual Report 2024 has won the Bronze Award at the Best Annual Report Awards organized by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Sri Lanka, held at BMICH, Colombo.This recognition highlights our strong commitment to good governance, transparency, and accountability. A big salute to the IBMBB family, this success belongs to all of you!

The Training Course in Cell Culture Techniques – January 2026 The Training Course in Cell Culture Techniques – January 2026 was successfully conducted by the Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IBMBB), – University of Colombo at the institute premises from 26 th to 30 th January, 2026. Ten participants comprised of young scientists, academics and science graduates 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.

IBMBB ALUMNI We’re growing, and we want you with us! The IBMBB is officially launching its Alumni network and we want you to be a part of it! Let’s reconnect, celebrate, and build this vibrant community together. We invite all our past graduates to join the Founding Circle by becoming a member before our first AGM in January 2026. Scan the QR code and fill out the form to express your interest. We are eager to connect, communicate and collaborate as a network!

Liquid Handling Workshop ( Nichiryo Co,Ltd, Japan) Liquid Handling Workshop by Nichiryo Japan In Collaboration with Avon Pharmo Chem (Pvt) Ltd Today, our team had the privilege of participating in an intensive Liquid Handling Workshop conducted by Nichiryo Co., Ltd., Japan, the renowned manufacturer of NICHIRYO micropipettes. The session was organized locally with the support of Avon Pharmo Chem (Pvt) Ltd, the authorized agent for Nichiryo products. The workshop was led by Ms. Riko Saan from Nichiryo Japan, who served as the key resource person. She provided detailed guidance on proper pipetting techniques, best practices for accuracy and reproducibility, routine maintenance, and troubleshooting of micropipettes. Her expertise and hands-on demonstrations gave participants a deeper understanding of precision liquid handling and helped strengthen their practical skills. Participants greatly appreciated the opportunity to learn directly from a Nichiryo specialist and engage in meaningful discussions about improving laboratory workflows. We extend our sincere thanks to Ms. Riko Saan, Nichiryo Japan, and Avon Pharmo Chem (Pvt) Ltd for delivering and supporting this valuable training program

International Recognition for Staff at Humanitarian Film Making Mr.Dimantha Ranaweera (Scientific Assistant – IT), gained international recognition this year through his outstanding contributions to film and storytelling. His production, Right Choice, won the prestigious GYP Emerging Filmmaker Award (Gold) at the GYP Youth Humanitarian Film Festival in Boston, USA. This award is presented to young filmmakers who demonstrate exceptional promise in creating socially impactful and influential films that highlight humanitarian issues. Winners were selected through a rigorous evaluation process by over 100 global student judges, including university-level reviewers from Drexel University who assess each submission based on storytelling quality, humanitarian relevance, technical excellence and overall impact. The festival featured films submitted from a diverse range of countries, including the USA, China, Taiwan, Brazil, Malaysia, Iran, Ukraine and Sri Lanka. Several staff and students from IBMBB contributed contributed to the film as both actors and crew members. Right Choice was also nominated for the 2025 NanoCon International Film Festival (NIFF) in Washington, USA. NIFF is held annually in Longview, Washington, showcasing a diverse array of films and fostering a vibrant community of film makers and enthusiasts from around the world. The festival has built a strong reputation for promoting independent filmmakers, fostering creative dialogue and offering a platform where diverse cinematic voices are recognised through public screenings and jury selections.

IBMBB Open Day 2025 The IBMBB Open Day 2025 was successfully held on 7th November 2025 at the IBMBB premises. The event provided an excellent opportunity for individuals interested in enrolling in Master’s programs, Training Programs, and the Undergraduate Program in Molecular Biology and Bioentrepreneurship to explore IBMBB’s state-of-the-art facilities. Participants had the chance to gain deeper insights into IBMBB’s academic programs, interact with experts, researchers, and current students, and experience the vibrant academic environment of the institute. The event drew over 150 participants, who engaged in discussions with IBMBB staff, researchers, and students, making the Open Day a highly informative and engaging experience for all attendees.

Foundation Stone Laying – HRIPT Center, IBMBB, UOC Celebrating a milestone and building the foundation for future innovation. FOS Media proudly brings the highlights of the Foundation Stone Laying – HRIPT Center, IBMBB, University of Colombo, organized by the Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IBMBB), University of Colombo, held on 30th October 2025 at the IBMBB Premises, University of Colombo, with the presence of Special Guest, Mr. Sunil Handunneththi. Photographed by: Harith Ayodya Edited by: Chanuka Bandara Fos Media

13th Annual Scientific Sessions of the IBMBB 2025 The Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IBMBB), University of Colombo, successfully held its 13th Annual Scientific Sessions on 24th October 2025, bringing together leading researchers, academics, and students in the fields of life sciences, biotechnology, and health sciences. The event, graced by Professor Indika Mahesh Karunatillake, Vice Chancellor of the University of Colombo, featured 16 oral and 9 poster presentations, showcasing cutting-edge research in health sciences, biotechnology, and natural product innovation. A key highlight was the Professor Stanley Wijesundera Memorial Lecture, delivered by Professor Dileep De Silva, Chair Professor of Community Dentistry at the University of Peradeniya, titled “Brains, Budgets and Beds: Aligning Health HR, Finance and Education for a Healthier Sri Lanka.” The ceremony also included the Best Teacher Awards and IBMBB Research Excellence Awards for 2023/2024, recognizing exceptional academic and research achievements. The sessions were organized under the leadership of Professor Prasanna Galhena (Director, IBMBB) and Professor Nimal Punyasiri (Chairperson), with Dr. Visula Abeysuriya serving as Secretary of the Scientific Sessions, whose coordination and commitment played a pivotal role in the event’s success. The 2025 sessions continued IBMBB’s proud legacy of fostering scientific excellence, collaboration, and innovation within Sri Lanka’s research community.

Three-day Training Session on “Animal Cell Culture Techniques” for AIBS Students Genelabs Medical (Pvt) Ltd. The three-day training session on Animal Cell Culture Techniques for AIBS students – Genelabs Medical (Pvt) Ltd was successfully organized and held in three batches from 22nd September to 2nd October 2025 (7 days), by the Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology. A total of 47 students participated in this intensive hands-on training programme. The training session was conducted under the guidance of Prof. Sameera R. Samarakoon and facilitated by Dr. Umapriyatharshini Rajagopalan, Mr. Nirmal Perera, Ms. Tasneem Muhinudeen, and Ms. Shalini Wijerathne, along with supportive staff including two technical officers. This interactive training provided a valuable platform for participants to enhance their understanding of essential principles and practical aspects of animal cell culture. The sessions covered safety precautions to maintain aseptic conditions in a cell culture laboratory, an introduction to cell culture laboratories, sterilization techniques, cell culture media preparation, visualization of cells using light microscopy, cell counting, cell viability determination, culturing and maintenance of adherent cells, cryopreservation and thawing of preserved human cell lines, detection of apoptosis using fluorescence microscopy, analysis of induced cytotoxicity, cell-based assays (SRB assay) to screen anti-cancer drugs or substances, and data analysis and interpretation of results. Overall, the training session offered an excellent opportunity for students to develop both theoretical insights and practical skills in the field of animal cell culture, equipping them with fundamental knowledge applicable to biomedical research.