The Founding of the Genetics and Molecular Biology Unit
The Genetics and Molecular Biology Unit (GMBU) was established through the vision and initiative of Prof. B. G. D. Nissanka K. de Silva, with the valuable support and collaboration of Senior Prof. Dinithi Peiris and Prof. D. H. H. Munasinghe. Their pioneering efforts laid the academic and institutional foundation for developing Genetics and Molecular Biology as a distinct field of study within the University of Sri Jayewardenepura.
The initiative emerged in response to the rapidly expanding importance of genetics, molecular biology and biotechnology in the life sciences, as well as the growing need for graduates equipped with modern molecular and analytical skills. Recognizing this emerging need, the three founding academics played a central role in conceptualizing and establishing a dedicated academic programme in Genetics and Molecular Biology within the Faculty of Applied Sciences.
The Genetics and Molecular Biology Unit was formally established in 2018 under the Dean’s Office of the Faculty of Applied Sciences. Subsequently, the Genetics and Molecular Biology programme was initiated in 2019, marking the beginning of this new academic direction. The establishment of the Unit represented an important milestone in the development of biological sciences education at the University and provided a dedicated academic platform for teaching, research and innovation in genetics and molecular biology.
Senior Prof. B. G. D. Nissanka K. de Silva
Senior Prof. Dinithi Peiris
Dr. D. H. H. Munasinghe