Industrial Biotechnology Section

Who we are

Modern industrial biotechnology, also known as “White biotechnology” uses natural, emulated, or engineered biological systems and processes to produce goods and services in an economical, eco-friendly, sustainable, and resource-efficient way for the benefit of humanity. The Industrial Biotechnology Section of the SLBTA is dedicated to promote industrial biotechnology among students, industrialists, academia, research professionals and the general public. It serves as a platform for the collaboration of professionals to foster the development and commercialization of biotechnological solutions that address national and global challenges. Thus, the committee’s scope of work encompasses promoting industrial biotechnology, bioentrepreneurship, facilitating innovation and research, encouraging collaboration, advocating for policy support, building capacity and skills, and showcasing potential and success stories in industrial biotechnology. By focusing on these key areas, the Industrial Biotechnology Section aims to leverage biotechnology as a pivotal tool towards a more competitive, sustainable economy in Sri Lanka.

Objectives

  1. To support the awareness, popularization, and training in industrial biotechnology across the country.
  2. To bridge the gap between academic, research, and industrial communities engaged in biotechnology.
  3. To promote biotechnology entrepreneurship and a biotechnology-based economy.
  4. To empower the younger generation to engage in biotechnology-based industries and innovations.

Committee Members

Dr. Dhanushka Udayanga

President

Senior Lecturer, Department of Biosystems Technology, 
University of Sri Jayewardenepura

Prof Priyanga Wijesinghe

Vice-president

Professor in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Department of Botany, University of Peradeniya

 Dr Sumudu Mapa

Secretary

Senior Lecturer, Department of Biosystems Technology, University of Sri Jayewardenepura

Ms. Sudeepa Ranasinghe

Rapporteur

Research Scientist,
Research National Aquatic Resource Agency

Prof. Amila Henagamage

Committee Member

Professor,
Faculty of Applied Science,
Uva Wellassa University

Dr. Aruna Manipura

Committee Member

Senior Lecturer, Department of Biosystems Technology, 
University of Sri Jayewardenepura

Dr. Chathura Wijerathne

Committee Member

Professor in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Department of Botany, University of Peradeniya

Ms. Amali Ranasinghe

Committee Member

Senior Lecturer, Department of Biosystems Technology, University of Sri Jayewardenepura

Mr. Ramodh Jayawardhana

Committee Member

Research Scientist,
Research National Aquatic Resource Agency

Prof. Pamoda Ratnaweera

Committee Member

Professor,
Faculty of Applied Science,
Uva Wellassa University

Mr. Kalinda Dasanayake

Committee Member

Senior Lecturer, Department of Biosystems Technology, 
University of Sri Jayewardenepura

Mr. Madhawa Jinasena

Committee Member

Professor in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry, Department of Botany, University of Peradeniya

Ms. Thilangi Kasthuriarachchi

Committee Member

Senior Lecturer, Department of Biosystems Technology, University of Sri Jayewardenepura

Ms. Rashmi Mohotti

Committee Member

Research Scientist,
Research National Aquatic Resource Agency

Prof. Nadeesh Adassooriya

Committee Member

Professor,
Faculty of Applied Science,
Uva Wellassa University

Projects and Initiatives

BioIndustry Portal: – a project to develop a Sri Lankan Biotechnology Industry Database and a communication platform for industry and academia

This project aims to create a comprehensive database of the biotechnology industries in Sri Lanka and establish an interactive platform to facilitate communication and collaboration between industry stakeholders and academic researchers. By bridging the gap between academia and industry, the BioIndustry Portal will foster innovation, drive economic growth, and enhance the development of biotechnology in Sri Lanka. This platform will be available to collaborate with any other organizations work towards similar goals.

BioBiz Bootcamp: A workshop for a selected team of Biotechnology, Bioprocess undergraduates/Postgraduates on Biotech Entrepreneurship and startups

This workshop aims to equip selected set of biotechnology and bioprocess students with essential entrepreneurial skills and knowledge for launching biotech startups. Through hands-on training, mentorship, and networking opportunities, participants will gain insights into the biotech industry’s business aspects, fostering innovation and entrepreneurial success.

BioCollab Initiative: An awareness session aims to bridge the gap between academic research and industry practices, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange for young academics and students

This awareness session seeks to connect academic research with industry practices, promoting collaboration and knowledge exchange among young academics and students. By fostering partnerships, the BioCollab Initiative aims to enhance practical applications of research and drive innovation in the biotechnology sector. This project may include workshops, seminars, webinars and online podcasts.

Connect with us

Monthly meeting schedule Every second Saturday of the month @ 4.00 pm onwards

President: Dr Dhanushka Udayanga

Phone: +94711776435 Email: dudayanga@sjp.ac.lk

Secretary: Dr Sumudu Mapa

Phone: +94 76 412 1983 Email: sumudu.mapa@sjp.ac.lk