Institute for Research & Development in Health & Social Care

Genetic Research

Our Laboratory

The Institute for Research and Development is equipped with a genetic research laboratory, which is capable of handling molecular genetic research. The laboratory was established in 2007 in collaboration with the Sri Lankan Twin Registry and King’s College London, UK. The lab was developed to support and collaborate with scientists and academics who wish to conduct their research within the country as the the Institute for Research and Development strongly oppose the export of genetic material abroad for research purposes and promotes conducting all genetic research in the locale where the genetic material was collected from. The lab is available for genetic research to all academics and personnel with keen interest in molecular genetic research.

The genetic laboratory is well equipped to perform a range of genetic and molecular biology related multidisciplinary research. We have established a unique biobank containing DNA and serum, of twins and singletons. We collaborate both nationally and internationally with well-established research institutes to carry out high quality result oriented research in the country.

Our Directive
  • Carry out research projects with national importance and policy impact.
  • Bring together academics & experts in molecular biology, biotechnology, & genetics.
  • Establishing partnerships with local & international research institutions, universities & government organizations.
  • Execute theoretical & practical education programs.
The Biobank

A National Repository of Bio-material on Twins & Higher Order Multiples

The IRD biobank is a unique repository consisting of Genomic DNA and serum of twins (both monozygotes and dizygotes) and a matching comparison sample of non-twins in the developing world. To our knowledge this is the first of its kind biobank establishment in Sri Lanka.

It was established along with the Colombo Twin and Singleton Follow-up Study (CoTaSS 2). Ethical clearance for this purpose was obtained from the ethics committees of Sri Jayawardhanepura University and Kings College London.

Consent was obtained from twins and non-twins participating in the CoTaSS 2  to store their blood for future studies. However, the samples will not be used for any specific study without obtaining fresh ethical clearance for specific projects from relevant ethics committees.

The goal of the IRD biobank is to create a national repository of bio-material on twins and higher order multiples. 3,000 plus samples of extracted DNA and serum is being stored in a large -80°C freezer, and this will continue to grow with future studies. Collected bio specimens will be used for cutting edge research which will give new insights into diseases burdening South Asia, leading to new methods of treatment and intervention in the future. Our plan is to establish capacity within the country to carry out these studies.

Our Current & Future Endeavors
  • Through the Colombo Twin and Singleton Follow-up Study (CoTaSS 2) genetic testing for zygosity determination will be used to validate a questionnaire on zygosity determination. This questionnaire was  cross-culturally adapted and translated into Sinhala, and preliminary validation was done in the CoTaSS 1 study. Read the journal article.
  • Two projects on plant genetics which includes sex determination and DNA barcoding are in the planning and grant application phase.
  • Training courses for post A\L students, undergraduates, and professionals who wish to obtain hands on training related to molecular biology and genetics have been planned. These courses will be conducted by experts in the field and will consist of lectures and practical sessions.

Meet the Team

  • Ruwini Cooray

    Research Scientist
    BSc. (Hons.) Biomedical ScienceMSc. BiotechnologyPhD (Reading)

  • Heshani Jayasuriya

    Genetics Laboratory Coordinator
    BSc. (Hons.) Biomedical ScienceMSc. Biochemistry & Molecular BiologyMSc. Biomedicine (Reading)

Our Research

Research Projects

Projects

Publications

Publications

Our Facilities

Our genetic laboratory maintains facilities and resources for the analysis and manipulation of nucleic acids and proteins.

Main Laboratory

Our main laboratory consists of dedicated;

Sterilization & Sample Preparation Section,

PCR Section,

Gel Electrophoresis Section,

Glassware Storage,

Chemical & Sample Storage Area.

Major Laboratory Equipment

Our major laboratory equipment, includes:

UV-visible Spectrophotometers Incubator
Large & Medium Gel Electrophoresis Units Freezers: -86°C, -40°C & 4°C
Blue Light Transilluminator System Analytical Balance & Electronic Balance
Multi-range Power Supply System Magnetic Stirrer
Thermal Cycler pH Meters
Ice Flakes Machine Hygrometer
Bench Top Centrifuge Dry Bath Incubator
Microcentrifuge Class II Biosafety Cabinet
Autoclave Ductless Fume Hood
DNA-analysis Software

We retain DNA-analysis software packages;

      • GelMapper
      • GeneScan®Software
      • Other related software packages
Nucleic Acid Isolation

We are fully equipped with facilities and resources for DNA extraction from various sources;

      • Plants
      • Animals
      • Tissues
      • Fluids
      • All forms of microorganisms
Nucleic Acid Quantification & Quality Analysis

Quantification & Purity Checking

Thermo Scientific NanoDrop 2000 spectrophotometer is available to measure the concentration and purity of DNA and RNA samples.

Thermo Scientific™ NanoDrop 2000 is a full-spectrum, UV-Visible spectrophotometer used to quantify and assess the purity of DNA, RNA, Protein and more. The NanoDrop 2000 is the only micro volumes spectrophotometers with patented sample retention technology that measure sample volumes as small as 0.5μL. This is the perfect instrument for almost every lab dealing with sample analysis or preparation. It is easy to use and samples can be simply pipetted directly onto the pedestal. Dilution of the samples for the quantification is not required even for highly concentrated samples (up to 15,000 ng/ µL). This can give results fast and has a less than five second measurement time. NanoDrop 2000 comes with user-friendly software packed with many features.

Gel Electrophoresis

Horizontal agarose gel electrophoresis unit is used to diagnose the DNA fragments of the PCR products and to check the integrity of the genomic DNA extracted. It is a convenient analytical method for determining the size of DNA molecules in the range of 500 to 30,000 base pairs. ENDURO™ 15.10 Horizontal Gel Box (with 10 cm × 15 cm long tray gel beds) and SIGMA-ALDRICH Maxi horizontal electrophoresis (with 20 x 20 cm long tray gel beds) units are available at our Laboratory.

Power Supplies

Power supplies provide voltage and electric readings. ENDURO™ Power Supplies are used to supply electrical power to the gel electrophoresis unit at our laboratory. They are ideal for DNA, RNA and protein electrophoresis as well as blotting. They provide a high degree of sophistication and versatility and are extremely easy to use.

Operating choices for the power supplies include constant voltage, constant amperage or constant wattage and timed or continuous operation. All operating parameters are set using the membrane keypad and displayed digitally on the backlit LCD. Safety features incorporated into the systems include automatic crossover, no load detection, sudden load change and over voltage protection. The units can be programmed to restart in the event of a power disruption. This unit features a voltage range from 2 to 300V in 1V increments. Current is adjustable in 0.01A steps to a maximum of 5A. Wattage is adjustable in 1W and steps up to 90W.

Gel Visualization & Documentation system

Safe Imager™ 2.0 Blue Light Transilluminator is used to visualize the agarose gels. The Safe Imager™ 2.0 Blue-Light Transilluminator offers a less toxic way to view gels and dramatically increase cloning efficiency by causing minimal DNA damage. The Safe Imager™ 2.0 transilluminator produces monochromatic, visible blue light that is optimal for excitation of blue light–excitable nucleic acid and protein stains.

Gel Documentation System is used for the imaging and documentation of nucleic acid and protein polyacrylamide or agarose gels typically stained with Ethidium bromide or other fluorophores such as SYBR Green. The Gel Doc system at IRD genetic laboratory is composed of a Blue light transilluminator, a hood to shield external light sources and a DSLR.

Cryogenic Sample Storage

Cryopreservation is a process used in laboratories where biological specimens such as cells, whole tissues, or any other substances which are generally susceptible to damages caused by chemical reactivity or time are preserved by cooling to sub-zero temperatures. At low-temperature conditions, any enzymatic or chemical activity which might cause damage to biological materials is effectively stopped. We maintain a cryogenic storage system for samples generated through research work at the Institute for Research and Development.

A -80°C and -20°C freezers are available for storing human whole blood samples, extracted DNA samples and tissue samples, chemicals, and reagents used in different applications. Currently, the ultra-low freezers (-80°C ± 10°C) (capacity 815L and 400L) are used for biobanking and normal freezers (-40°C ± 5°C) are used for temporary sample storage and chemical storage purposes.

PCR Facilities

A contamination free area is available to carry out PCR, along with one PCR machine. We use the Applied Biosystems 2720 Thermal Cycler in the our genetics laboratory for PCR-based applications.

The Applied Biosystems 2720 Thermal Cycler is an automated instrument, specifically designed for the amplification of nucleic acids using the GeneAmp Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) process.

The instrument has an integrated 96-well sample block, which houses an internal Peltier heating / cooling unit.

The sample block is made of aluminum to provide optimal thermal transfer rate.

Platinum sensors provide:

      • Wide temperature range: 4°C to 99.9°C
      • Accuracy: ±0.25°C from 35°C to 99.9°C
      • Long term stability and high reliability

The sample block accommodates several different types of MicroAmpR disposable tubes and plates, which must be used in order to create a sealed chamber.

Biological Safety Cabinets

Class II Biological safety cabinets with UV light are used for preparing PCR products and sequencing samples.

This is used to obtain the optimum control over product quality while reducing the potential for exposure of both product and personnel to airborne biological or particulate chemical agents in low to moderate risk-hazard research and product operations.

It is designed to meet IEC 61010-1 Safety/Protection Standards ISO 9001 Quality Certified Manufacturing Environment. This provides efficient laminar air flow to keep contaminants from entering the work area or the laboratory.

Certificate Course

Practical Skills in Molecular Biology & Genetics

The certificate program on Practical Skills in Molecular Biology and Genetics is designed to provide students a thorough knowledge of core concepts and practice of molecular biology and genetics for eventual services in the rapidly expanding areas of biomedical sciences and life sciences.

Our program also prepares students who are making career changes to areas that require additional exposure to molecular biology and genetics and offers a program of study to individuals seeking preparation for BSc., MSc., and PhD.

This certificate course is registered at the Tertiary and Vocational Education Committee of Sri Lanka (TVEC) and set to provide a warranty of excellence in laboratory techniques with participants becoming highly competent at the bench over the course of this program.

This course consists of 120 hours of laboratory sessions to give the participant the base knowledge required, along with the essential skills, to design and perform molecular biology experiments with confidence. Facilitators are often researchers, scientists and university lecturers who have pioneered the technique.

Testimonials

"What an excellent course it was. To be honest I thought that it was going to be another tick in the box type course that I was going to find quite boring! However your instructors were excellent, the course was interesting and enjoyable and I could obtain a lot of practical skills in molecular biology laboratory techniques. I would go as far as to say it was the best training course that I have ever attended. I really enjoyed the sample collection and DNA extraction modules and the experience I have gained through them was immense. Overall a really enjoyable and educational experience."


2nd Year Student
BSc. Biomedical Science
Deakin University, Australia

Ms. Mithurshi Shankaran

"I decided to register for this course after much research and review of other such types of training courses provided by various other institutes in the country. I felt, even before attending the course, that I had made the right decision. That feeling was fully justified after completing the 2 month course taught by a friendly team of lecturers at IRD. Their teaching style was engaging and superbly informative as the entire class was able to interact with the tutors through the online student forum even after the classroom sessions. I would recommend this course to both novice and experienced professionals who are interested in this field."


2nd Year Student
BSc. Biomedical Science
Deakin University, Australia

Ms. Pershanga Perinpanayagam

"A thorough course that enables the student to learn at their own pace, have access to their instructor when needed via online student forum, and have additional practical sessions so that they can get extra skills in what they have learned. I did get tons of useful experience from the course and the instructors were great. Overall, I thought the course was great !!"


2nd Year Student
BSc. Biomedical Science
Deakin University, Australia

Ms. Amanda Perera

"An excellent course. I think it was very useful for someone like me who seeks hands-on training in practicals. Good balance between theory and practical experience. Well presented and good fun! Very warm and friendly atmosphere. The training sessions were very enjoyable. The tutors were very knowledgeable and well experienced. I would recommend this course to anyone who is looking for experience and knowledge in molecular biology. Good work !! Keep it up guys !!"


2nd Year Student
BSc. Biomedical Science
Deakin University, Australia

Ms. Ravindi Madanayaka

"This certificate course on practical skills in molecular biology and genetics gave more exposure towards the practical aspects of molecular life science. I had hands on experience in basic genetic equipment and helped me in developing my skills. The trainers and lecturers were friendly and patient thus providing a good enthusiastic environment. I had a real good experience in learning and also this had widened my knowledge on both theoretical and practical skills."


BSc. Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Microbiology
University of Mysore, India

Ms. Keerthika Vivekananthan

"The certificate course was informative and well organized. The staff was friendly and offered great advice to students not only to improve knowledge and skills on molecular biology but also to achieve future career goals and to step forward in higher studies with confidence.
Hands-on experiences are a critical part of career exploration and skill building. I was able to become more familiar with the equipment and techniques since it provided us with ample opportunities to get hands-on experience with proper guidance.
I appreciate the individual attention given throughout the course which made the training highly effective.
The technical and professional training provided by the program instructors at IRD allowed me to apply for my Master’s degree without any hesitation.
I would definitely recommend this course to anyone interested in getting hands-on experiences on molecular biology techniques."


Ms. Udari Jayasinghe

"The certificate course on practical skills in molecular biology and genetics was informative and it allowed me to gain more hands-on experience with the equipment and the techniques used in molecular biology. The individual attention that I got from the instructors helped me gain more confidence as I improved my skills. The instructors were also very knowledgeable and approachable. I would strongly recommend this course for anyone interested in getting hands-on experiences on molecular biology techniques."


BSc. Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Microbiology
University of Mysore, India

Ms. Nethmi Perera

"The Certificate Course on Practical Skills in Molecular Biology and Genetics was indeed a great opportunity for me to explore the modern molecular techniques and theoretical aspects which further paved the way for me to decide to pursue my career in Molecular Biology. The course was conducted very methodically and each one of us was able to obtain hands-on experience with these techniques. The friendly team of lecturers and lab assistants gave us individual attention and made us feel free to work in the laboratory environments. The presentation session which was held as a part of our evaluation gave us great exposure to a formal presentation.
Thus I would definitely recommend this course for anyone planning to work in the field of molecular biology. I wish IRD and the team at IRD Genetics Lab all the very best!"


BSc. Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Microbiology
University of Mysore, India

Ms. Suvini Karunaratne
The Course

This course is designed for post-A/L students, undergraduates, graduates, & researchers who wish to develop their laboratory skills towards pursuing a scientific career in molecular genetics, or a related discipline.

Objectives

This certificate program aims to:

      • Provide a thorough understanding of the principles related to the subject.
      • Develop our students’ competence at laboratory work & their independence as researchers.
      • Promote research activity, & teaching in genetics and molecular biology.

Benefits

On completion of this program, our student will:

      • Gain a comprehensive understanding on principles & practices regarding key areas in molecular genetics.
      • Acquire improved practical skills in performing laboratory experiments.
      • Develop a variety for technical skills that will benefit their future learning, and employment.
      • Broaden their subject knowledge.
      • Understand the effective planning, execution, and reporting of scientific research.

Program Structure

The certificate course duration is 8-12 weeks (2-3 months).

During this two month period, our student is required to participate in all course units and laboratory practical units.

Batch Timings

Sundays: 09.30 am to 05.00 pm

Mondays & Tuesdays: 09.30 am to 05.00 pm

Modules

Introduction to Molecular Biology & Genetics

  1. Overview of the Course
  1. Principles of Molecular Biology & Genetics
  1. Introduction to Cell Biology
  1. Discussion

Good Laboratory Practice & Quality Standards

  1. Introduction to Good Laboratory Practice
  1. Risk Assessment
  1. Health & Safety
  1. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
  1. Safety Signs & Labeling
  1. Quality Standards

Lab Management

  1. Principles of Lab Management
  1. Equipment Maintenance
  1. Policy Development
  1. Inventory Management
  1. Placing of Orders & Procurement
  1. Documentation & Database Management

Stock Solutions & Reagent Preparation

  1. Introduction to Stock Solutions
  1. Reagent Preparation (8 Reagents)
  1. Molarity & Normality
  1. pH Adjustments
  1. Serial Dilutions
  1. Sterilization Techniques

Sample Collection & Preservation

  1. Introduction to Sample Collection
  1. Sample Transportation
  1. Types of Samples
  1. Sample Preservation
  1. Purposes of Sampling
  1. Certification
  1. Field Sample Collection & Labeling

DNA Extraction from Different Sources

  1. DNA Extraction Principles
  1. Blood DNA Extraction; Commercial Kit
  1. Manual Kits vs. Commercial Kits
  1. Silica Column Based Kits
  1. Plant DNA Extraction; Manual Kit
  1. Extraction Protocol Optimization

DNA Quantification & Quality Analysis

  1. Introduction to Spectrophotometry
  1. Interpretation of Results
  1. Setting Up of Spectrophotometer
  1. Quality Analysis
  1. NanoDrop Spectrophotometer
  1. Troubleshooting

Agarose Gel-Electrophoresis

  1. Introduction to Gel Electrophoresis
  1. Loading Dyes
  1. Components of Agarose Gel Electrophoresis
  1. DNA Ladders (Mass vs. Size)
  1. Setting Up the Gel Electrophoresis Apparatus
  1. Nucleic Acid Visualization
  1. Gel Casting
  1. Interpretation of Results
  1. Nucleic Acid Staining Dyes
  1. Applications & Troubleshooting

Polymerase Chain Reaction ( PCR )

  1. DNA Replication
  1. PCR Variants
  1. Introduction to PCR
  1. Interpretation of PCR Results
  1. Components of a PCR
  1. Applications & Troubleshooting
  1. Setting Up the PCR

DNA Sequencing (Demonstration)

  1. Introduction to DNA Sequencing
  1. ABI Prism 310 Genetic Analyzer Demonstration
  1. Methods of DNA Sequencing
  1. Interpretation of Results
  1. Sanger Sequencing

Application of Bioinformatics

  1. Introduction to Bioinformatics
  1. Sequence Aligning & Blasting
  1. Biological Databases
  1. Sequence Analysis
  1. NCBI
  1. Primer Designing

Research Methodology & Research Proposal Writing

  1. Introduction to Research
  1. Grant Application Process
  1. Types of Research
  1. Research Journals & Publications
  1. Literature Survey
  1. Referencing Methods
  1. Research Proposal Writing
  1. Research Ethics

Basic Skills for Young Academics

  1. CV Writing
  1. Workplace Etiquette
  1. Facing Job Interviews
  1. Email Etiquette

Career Guidance

Evaluation Criteria

Student performance will be evaluated through a combination of following elements:

      1. Assignments,
      2. Laboratory Reports,
      3. Presentation,
      4. Viva Voce Examination,
      5. End of Course Practical Examination.

Grades will be assigned based on our students’ performance.

The course coordinator will announce the method of evaluation at course commencement.

Grade Scheme

Score Grade Score  Grade Score  Grade Score  Grade
> 90  A+ 75 – 79 B+ 60 – 64 C+ 45 – 49 D+
85 – 89 A 70 – 74 B 55 – 59 C 40 – 44 D
80 – 84 A− 65 – 69 B− 50 – 54 C− < 40 E

Re-sitting & Repeat Examinations

A student who obtains a grade below “C” may re-sit the final examination on a subsequent examination date for the purpose of improving their grade. However, the best grade obtainable in this instance is “B+”.

Attendance

Attendance at all laboratory sessions is compulsory; unless a student has a valid reason (documented evidence is required). In order to sit the final examination, a minimum attendance of 80% is required.

TVEC Accredition

The Institute for Research & Development in Health & Social Care, is registered as an academic institute with the Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission, Sri Lanka under the program “Registration of Training Institutes Providing Tertiary Education or Vocational Training”. The TVEC is a government institute responsible for policy formulation, planning, quality assurance, coordination, and development of tertiary & vocational education in the country.

The registration certifies that our training program meets the standards specified by government. Subsequent guidance given by the TVEC will ensure the internal and external improvement in efficiency our training programs. All laboratory training programs offered by the Institute for Research & Development in Health & Social Care are registered separately, in order to obtain the ‘certificate level’ accredition.

Our TVEC Registration

Registration

Prerequisite

High school-level knowledge of biology & chemistry.

Application

Apply for the course by sending us your short CV via genetics@ird.lk.

Ensure that you use the phrase “Certificate Course” as the subject line of your email.

This will help your application standout during the identification process.

Prospective Student Registration Details

Please fill and submit the registration form for this course.

Further information; please contact us on 011 5 662 895.

Registration Form
Enrollment

Course Fee Structure

Candidates selected for the course, are required to make payments before course commencement.

The tuition fee covers charges for;

Registration,

Tuition,

Examinations,

Certificates.

Payments are to be made in accordance with the following fee structure.

Student Fee
Domestic LKR 50,000.00
Foreign: Package A* USD 300.00
Foreign: Package B* USD 400.00
*Note:

Package A: Tuition Fee Only

Package B: Tuition fee, Breakfast & Lunch

Repeat or Re-sit Examinations:

Payment is required in order to resit the final examination;

Student Fee
Domestic LKR 1500.00
Foreign USD 10.00
Certificate Duplication:

Payment is required per duplicate of the certificate;

Student Fee
Domestic LKR 500.00
Foreign USD 10.00

Payment

Mode of Payment Details
In Person

Your payments can be made at the IRD Office.

No. 393/3, Lily Avenue,

Off Robert Gunawardane Mawatha,

Battaramulla 10120,

Sri Lanka.
Bank Deposit

Attach the bank deposit slip to your application form.

Account Name: Institute for Research & Development

Account Type: Current Account

Account Number: 0004153763

Branch: Battaramulla

Bank: Bank of Ceylon
Cheques

Drawn in favor of:

“Institute For Research & Development”

Crossed:

“A/C Payee Only”

Terms & Conditions

  1. Tuition fee must be paid in full (and received by us) on/ before the date of commencement of the course. You will not be able to attend course sessions until we have received the full payment.
  2. Set up an installment payment plan by contacting the course coordinator. The tuition fee can be paid in two installments: 50% of the total tuition fee at the registration & next 50% at the beginning of the second month.
  3. The tuition fees must be received in cleared funds in accordance with the payment methods set out by us.
  4. We are not liable for any payment (made by you) that does not reach our correct account due to entering our details incorrectly.
  5. We are not liable if your bank declines or refuses payment. It is your responsibility to check that payment has been made successfully.
  6. There will be no refunds given due to any reason and under any circumstance once the payment has been made.
  7. We are committed to assisting you in your studies wherever possible.  If you are experiencing unforeseen financial difficulties in paying your tuition fees you must contact the finance team for support and advice as soon as possible.
  8. We may modify the terms or the policies at any time and it is your responsibility to check their content. Please review the terms and policies regularly to ensure that you are aware of any changes made.

Working with Us

We welcome highly motivated and career driven researchers to contribute to our work and enhance their practical and critical thinking skills in relation to Molecular Biology & Genetics.

We encourage budding scientists to come forward with their research ideas so that we can help them develop and carry out their research projects.

Facilities For Private Hire

Lab Space for Your Research

1,500 ft2 laboratory space comes with administrative areas, bench tops, fume hoods, bio-safety cabinets, washing areas and chemical storage to meet your research needs. We offer the resources, time, space, reagents and supervision according to your need to support you to carry out your research at our laboratory facility at an affordable rate.

Ultra-low Freezer Facility for Rent

Our ultra-low freezers are ideally suitable for the storage of products at freezing temperatures to meet your industrial requirements. This facility is coupled with an advanced power backup system and secured by a 24 hour electricity supply. This is now available for external scientists as 50 L, 100 L, 200 L, and 400 L cubicle spaces for monthly, quarterly and annual payment plans at affordable rates. We are happy to advice you on the right choice of your ultra-low freezer requirements.

Liquid Nitrogen Plant DNA Extraction

Includes initial training for Liquid Nitrogen-based plant DNA extraction by laboratory technical staff, along with support & close supervision from laboratory research staff throughout the process. Contact us for quotation.

-20°C Freezer Storage Facility

Contact us for a quotation – genetics@ird.lk

Internships

Each year, we welcome local and international students to register for our laboratory internship program which encourages students to pursue careers in molecular biology and genetics, by providing laboratory research experience.

Selected students will have the opportunity of supporting the IRD mission, under staff researcher guidance, by participating in research.

Objectives
  • Develop our intern’s ability to formulate novel research ideas in the fields of biotechnology & biomedical sciences.
  • Build our intern’s capacity & skills by providing hands-on experience in;
  1. Research proposal writing
  1. Budgeting & finance management
  1. Development & optimization of protocols
  1. Manuscript writing
  1. Development & optimization of Standard Operating Procedures
  1. Presentation delivery
  1. Grant proposal writing
  1. Research based documentation & log-keeping
  1. Resource management
  1. Analysis & interpretation of molecular biology & biomedical research data
  • Engage our intern in on-going research projects alongside laboratory researchers, in order to provide hands-on technical skills in molecular biology;
  1. DNA & RNA Extraction: Human, Plant & Animal tissue.
  1. DNA Sequence Analysis
  1. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
  1. Bioinformatics
  1. Agarose Gel Electrophoresis
  • Enhance our intern’s soft-skills in research & academics;
  1. Cover letter and CV writing
  1. Inculcate professionalism
  1. Interview skills
  1. Improve communication skills
  1. Workshops & seminar sessions
  1. Enhance capacity for teamwork
Program Structure

During the internship, our intern will engage in the disciplines of Human, Animal & Plant genetics.

Registration
Application Form

Prerequisite

        • BSc(or reading) in Biomedical Science, Biotechnology, Life Sciences or any other related field.
        • Fluent in English and possesses good academic writing skills.
        • Able to work independently and efficiently in order to meet tight deadlines.
        • Proficient with Microsoft Office (MS word, Excel & PowerPoint).
        • Familiar with Windows Operating System.
        • Knowledge in basic statistics and bioinformatics will be beneficial.
        • Prior research experience would be an added advantage.

Application

Apply for the internship by sending us your updated CV with a Cover Letter including your discipline of interest via genetics@ird.lk.

Ensure that you use the phrase “Genetics Internship” as the subject line of your email.

This will help your application standout during the identification process.

Shortlisted applicants will be notified via email for a short interview.

Further information; please contact us on 011 5 662 895.

Prospective Intern Application Details

Please fill and submit the internship application form.

Enrollment

Internship Fee Structure

We believe in making the education and training that we provide, affordable for all qualified applicants. We support students in building a solid foundation early in their career, through the affordable training provided at our state of the art laboratory, regardless of their financial circumstances.

Therefore, we have structured our internship program fees as follows;

Our internship program is completely free for all selected undergraduates from state universities who wish to gain academic credits in order to complete their degree program.

Selected Private and international university undergraduates, seeking internship placements as part of degree program fulfillment (earning academic credits) are required to pay for laboratory training according to the following scheme.

Duration (Weeks) Starting Fee (LKR) Refundable Deposit (LKR) Total Fee (LKR)
06 – 12 60,000.00 5000.00 65,000.00
14 – 20 70,000.00 5000.00 75,000.00
22 – 24 80,000.00 5000.00 85,000.00

Selected Graduates & undergraduates seeking practical experience in Molecular Biology & Genetic research are required to pay for laboratory training according to the following scheme.

Duration (Months) Fee (LKR) Refundable Deposit (LKR) Total Fee (LKR)
03 60,000.00 5000.00 65,000.00

In-Plant Training

In-plant training (also termed, industrial training) provides undergraduates with laboratory research experience in molecular biology and genetics.

Selected in-plant trainees, shall be merited with academic credit for their training at our institute, & will have the opportunity of supporting the IRD mission, under staff researcher guidance, by participating in research.

In-plant trainees work under the close observation and mentorship of a supervisor.

Objectives
  • Develop the trainee’s ability to formulate novel research ideas in the fields of biotechnology & biomedical sciences.
  • Build the trainee’s capacity & skills by providing hands-on experience in;
  1. Research proposal writing
  1. Budgeting & finance management
  1. Development & optimization of protocols
  1. Manuscript writing
  1. Development & optimization of Standard Operating Procedures
  1. Presentation delivery
  1. Grant proposal writing
  1. Research based documentation & log-keeping
  1. Resource management
  1. Analysis & interpretation of molecular biology & biomedical research data
  • Engage the trainee in on-going research projects alongside laboratory researchers, in order to provide hands-on technical skills in molecular biology;
  1. DNA & RNA Extraction: Human, Plant & Animal tissue.
  1. DNA Sequence Analysis
  1. Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
  1. Bioinformatics
  1. Agarose Gel Electrophoresis
  • Enhance the trainee’s soft-skills in research & academics;
  1. Cover letter and CV writing
  1. Inculcate professionalism
  1. Interview skills
  1. Improve communication skills
  1. Workshops & seminar sessions
  1. Enhance capacity for teamwork
Program Structure

Through the in-plant training program, the trainee will engage in the disciplines of Human, Animal & Plant genetics.

Registration

Prerequisite

        • BSc(or reading) in Biomedical Science, Biotechnology, Life Sciences or any other related field.
        • Fluent in English and possesses good academic writing skills.
        • Able to work independently and efficiently in order to meet tight deadlines.
        • Proficient with Microsoft Office (MS word, Excel & PowerPoint).
        • Familiar with Windows Operating System.
        • Knowledge in basic statistics and bioinformatics will be beneficial.
        • Prior research experience would be an added advantage.

Application

Apply to the in-plant trainee program by sending us your updated CV with a Cover Letter including your discipline of interest via genetics@ird.lk.

Ensure that you use the phrase “Genetics In-plant Training Program” as the subject line of your email.

This will help your application standout during the identification process.

Shortlisted applicants will be notified via email for a short interview.

Further information; please contact us on 011 5 662 895.

Prospective Trainee Application Details

Please fill and submit the in-plant trainee application form.

Application Form
Enrollment

In-Plant Training Fee Structure

We believe in making the education and training that we provide, affordable for all qualified applicants. We support trainees in building a solid foundation early in their career, through the affordable training provided at our state of the art laboratory, regardless of their financial circumstances.

Therefore, we have structured our in-plant training program fees as follows;

Our in-plant training program is completely free for all selected undergraduates from state universities who wish to gain academic credits in order to complete their degree program.

Selected Private and international university undergraduates, seeking in-plant trainee placements as part of degree program fulfillment (earning academic credits) are required to pay for laboratory training according to the following scheme.

Duration (Weeks) Fee (LKR) Refundable Deposit (LKR) Total Fee (LKR)
06 – 12 60,000.00 5000.00 65,000.00
14 – 20 70,000.00 5000.00 75,000.00
22 – 24 80,000.00 5000.00 85,000.00

Selected Graduates & undergraduates seeking practical experience in Molecular Biology & Genetic research are required to pay for laboratory training according to the following scheme.

Duration (Months) Starting Fee (LKR) Refundable Deposit (LKR) Total Fee (LKR)
03 60,000.00 5000.00 65,000.00

Volunteership

A research volunteer position is awarded to individuals who are interested in performing tasks for, or providing services to, our genetics laboratory without monetary compensation.

Research volunteers have the opportunity to gain first-hand laboratory research experience conducted at the Institute for Research & Development in Health & Social Care; under the supervision of well trained staff.

A service letter will issued upon the completion of our voluntary period.

Application

Apply for the volunteership by sending us your updated CV with a Cover Letter including your discipline of interest via genetics@ird.lk.

Ensure that you use the phrase “Genetics Volunteership” as the subject line of your email.

This will help your application standout during the identification process.

Shortlisted applicants will be notified via email for a short interview.

Further information; please contact us on 011 5 662 895.

Prospective Volunteer Application Details

Please fill and submit the volunteership application form.

Application Form

TVEC Accredition

The Institute for Research & Development in Health & Social Care, is registered as an academic institute with the Tertiary and Vocational Education Commission, Sri Lanka under the program “Registration of Training Institutes Providing Tertiary Education or Vocational Training”. The TVEC is a government institute responsible for policy formulation, planning, quality assurance, coordination, and development of tertiary & vocational education in the country.

The registration certifies that our training program meets the standards specified by government. Subsequent guidance given by the TVEC will ensure the internal and external improvement in efficiency our training programs. All laboratory training programs offered by the Institute for Research & Development in Health & Social Care are registered separately, in order to obtain the ‘certificate level’ accredition.

Our TVEC Registration

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