Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IBMBB)

Deadline Extended for Abstracts

The IBMBB, UoC is pleased to announce the 4th International Conference on Frontiers in Molecular Life Sciences (ICFMLS 2024) scheduled to be held on 26th & 27th September 2024!. The conference is centered around the main theme “Beyond the Blueprint of Life” addressing the cutting-edge advancements in Molecular Life Sciences and allied fields. This conference will bring together experts from academia, industry and innovators from around the world to explore the latest advancements and trends shaping our future. This year’s conference offers a unique platform for networking, knowledge exchange and foster collaborations across diverse fields such as Biomedical Sciences, Biotechnology, Genetics, Bioinformatics and Bio-entrepreneurship. Join us for an inspiring program of keynote speeches, panel discussions and interactive workshops designed to initiate new ideas and engage in insightful dialogs to drive forward solutions to current global challenges.

Submission Portal: https://indico.ibmbb.cmb.ac.lk/e/icfmls2024
For more info: http://www.ibmbb.cmb.ac.lk/icfmls2024/

Overnight Pirith and Morning Almsgiving - 20th Anniversary Commemoration

Call for Abstracts

The IBMBB, UoC is pleased to announce the 4th International Conference on Frontiers in Molecular Life Sciences (ICFMLS 2024) scheduled to be held on 26th & 27th September 2024!. The conference is centered around the main theme “Beyond the Blueprint of Life” addressing the cutting-edge advancements in Molecular Life Sciences and allied fields. This conference will bring together experts from academia, industry and innovators from around the world to explore the latest advancements and trends shaping our future. This year’s conference offers a unique platform for networking, knowledge exchange and foster collaborations across diverse fields such as Biomedical Sciences, Biotechnology, Genetics, Bioinformatics and Bio-entrepreneurship. Join us for an inspiring program of keynote speeches, panel discussions and interactive workshops designed to initiate new ideas and engage in insightful dialogs to drive forward solutions to current global challenges.

Submission Portal: https://indico.ibmbb.cmb.ac.lk/e/icfmls2024

For more info: http://www.ibmbb.cmb.ac.lk/icfmls2024/

Overnight Pirith and Morning Almsgiving - 20th Anniversary Commemoration

IBMBB celebrated its 20th anniversary by organizing an overnight pirith chanting ceremony that started on 27th April 2024 and morning alms giving for 15 Buddhist Priests who chanted Pirith overnight on 28th April 2024 at the IBMBB premises. The religious event was a combined effort of former as well as current staff and students of IBMBB. The objective of the program was to evoke blessings to all the staff and students of IBMBB and all future endeavors of the IBMBB.

Training course in Molecular Biological Techniques - 2024

Course is of 45 h duration and will consist of theory and practicals with hands on experience in DNA based techniques such as DNA extraction and quantification, PCR, RT-PCR, DNA probes, gel electrophoresis, restriction fragment length polymorphism and an exposure to DNA sequencing. Application of the techniques in diagnosis of pathogenic diseases, mutation detection etc will be discussed.

The course is designed for scientists, clinicians, academics, technical officers and students awaiting higher studies in biological sciences.
Number of participants is limited to 20.
Certification: A certificate will be awarded to those who successfully complete the workshop.

Course Fee: Rs. 50,000 (A non refundable advance fee of Rs. 5000 should be paid at the time of application)
Duration: 5 consecutive days
Application Deadline: 14th June 2024
Apply Now: https://service.ibmbb.cmb.ac.lk/
For more details, visit: https://www.ibmbb.cmb.ac.lk/short-training-courses/

Eye Camp - 2024
Eye inspection camp was successfully conducted by Spexbay at the IBMBB on 9th April 2024 which was organized by the Welfare Society of IBMBB. 100 individuals which included staff and students from IBMBB as well as other faculties and institutes of University Colombo got their eyes examined by qualified optometrists.

Following tests were conducted.

Eye (Refraction) Screening
Computer Vision Syndrome and Glaucoma Screening
Spectacles were also offered at a discounted rate.

Training course in Structural Bioinformatics and Computational Drug Discovery

A complete beginner level course which covers areas such as protein structure determination, visualization and modeling, molecular docking, molecular dynamic simulations, MMGBSA, ADMET, pharmacophore modeling, QSAR and many more.

Duration: 5 consecutive days (45 Hours/ 60 Notional Hours)
Application Deadline: 26th June 2024

Apply Now: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSetfsLFiOPez0RTxnf01bh6wNi4smx2X4keXzLLBxinL8LRwA/viewform?pli=1

IBMBB 20th Anniversary - Pirith Chanting Ceremony

IBMBB is celebrating two decades of existence on the 28th of April 2024. An overnight pirith chanting ceremony on 27th of April and morning arms giving on the 28th of April have been organised at the IBMBB premises. This event will be streamed live on YouTube.

IBMBB 20th Aniversary - Pirith Chanting Ceremony

https://www.telegraphindia.com/india/genetic-link-between-lankan-tribe-indians-islands-earliest-inhabitants-spring-a-surprise/cid/2014214

Genetic link between Lankan tribe & Indians: Island's earliest inhabitants spring a surprise A team of Indian and Sri Lankan scientists has found that the Vedda share a strong genetic similarity with the Austroasiatic Munda-speaking Santhal and Juang tribes in Odisha and the Dravidian-speaking Irula, Paniya and Pallar found in Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu

IBMBB Hosts Successful Workshop Empowering Technical Officers and Laboratory Technicians-2024

The Institute of Biochemistry Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IBMBB) at the University of Colombo recently concluded a highly successful workshop aimed at enhancing the skills and knowledge of technical officers and laboratory technicians was held on 27th and 28th of March 2024. The workshop featured a comprehensive blend of theory and practical sessions, providing attendees with valuable insights on a range of laboratory equipment and techniques.

The theory components of the workshop covered essential topics such as;
• An introduction to pH meters and analytical balances
• Spectrophotometry and centrifugation techniques,
• The utility of High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC)
• Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) and its diverse applications
• Uses of micro-pipettes and microscopes.

Through these sessions, participants gained a deeper understanding of the principles behind these instruments and their applications in various research settings. Complementing the theoretical knowledge, the practical components of the workshop offered hands-on experience and demonstrations, allowing participants to familiarize themselves with the operation and maintenance of key laboratory equipment. Demonstrations included ELISA/Micro-plate Readers, providing insights into techniques crucial for biochemical analysis. Moreover, participants had the opportunity for a lab visit and practical exposure, where they engaged in activities focusing on pH meters, centrifuges, spectrophotometers, PCR machines, and HPLC systems.

A total of 12 enthusiastic participants registered for the program, eager to expand their expertise and refine their laboratory skills. The workshop provided them with an invaluable platform to enhance their proficiency in handling sophisticated laboratory equipment, thereby equipping them with the necessary tools to excel in their respective roles. Overall, the workshop organized by IBMBB emerged as a resounding success, reaffirming its commitment to excellence in scientific education and training. By equipping technical officers and laboratory technicians with the requisite knowledge and skills, IBMBB continues to contribute significantly to the advancement of research and development in the field of biochemistry, molecular biology, and biotechnology.

Eye Camp

Date: 09.04.2024
Time: 9.00 am to 3.00 pm
Venue: IBMBB Premises

Multi-Omic Data Integration in Systems Medicine

Guest Lecture by :Dr. David Gomez-Cabrero, Associate Professor, Bioscience, King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Saudi Arabia

Date and Time: 27th March @ 12.00 pm
Venue: IBMBB Auditorium

Join Zoom Meeting
https://learn.zoom.us/j/97079773201?pwd=ZWVxRTdLcDR0SVdsWHVSeURTQzV0Zz09

Meeting ID: 970 7977 3201
Passcode: IBMbb@23

Training Course in Cell Culture Techniques

The Training Course in Cell Culture Techniques for the year of 2024 was successfully organized and conducted by the Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Colombo at the institute's facilities from February 26 to March 1, 2024. Seventeen participants comprised of young scientists, clinicians, medical officers, academic and science graduates attended the training course. Several practical aspects of fundamental cell culture techniques were covered in the training course which included safety precautions, media preparation, cell counting and viability determination, growth of adherent and suspension cells, maintenance of cells, freezing and thawing of human cell lines, apoptosis detection using light and fluorescence microscopy and DNA fragmentation, cytotoxicity determination, cell-based assays to screen anti-cancer drugs or substances, isolation and maintenance of primary cells, DNA and RNA extraction from cultured cells, and an overview of stem cells. The training course was a great opportunity for the participants to broaden their knowledge and gain hands-on experience in the field of animal cell culture.

Training Course in Immunology Techniques

The Training Course in Immunology Techniques covers 10 hours of theory and 35 hours of practical with hands-on experience in immunological techniques. Practical components include cell isolating methods, in vitro culturing of leukocytes, cell counting methods, functional assays for immune cells, immunodiagnostic assays (ELISA, Immunochromatography, SDS-PAGE & Western Blotting, Molecular diagnosis of immunodeficiencies) and cell-based immunoassays.

Apply Now - https://forms.gle/tD5wB9cY3xPkNct37

This course is suitable for young scientists, clinicians, academics, technical officers, postgraduate students, students awaiting higher studies in biological sciences and individuals who are interested in pursuing immunological techniques in their scientific fields.

Deadline for application: 26th March 2024

This Is the Primary Registration form for the Training course in Immunology Techniques program. Once you are registered here you will receive the course payment and final registration link. Only 20 seats are available, please be kind enough to register soon.
For more details :https://www.ibmbb.cmb.ac.lk/short-training-courses/

Workshop for Technical Officers & Laboratory Technicians

Application Link: https://forms.gle/Jvjy1Np6LCnxwy7i9

This program covers 21 hours of practical and theory with hands-on experience in Laboratory Safety, pH Meters, Analytical Balances, Spectrophotometer, Centrifuges, PCR & Real-time PCR Machines, Use of Micropipettes Laminar flow / Biosafety Cabinets, Microplate / ELISA Plate Reader, Microscopes, Autoclaving Equipment and HPLC.

This programme primarily focuses on strengthening the understanding of principles, operating manuals, and resolving trouble-shooting of frequently used instruments in a standard laboratory setting and involves theory and real time practical demonstration conducted by subject and industry specialists.

This workshop is suitable for Laboratory technical officers, lab personnel and any interested parties.

A certificate will be awarded to those who successfully complete the workshop.
Course Fee: Rs.15,000
Duration: 2 consecutive days(14 hours)
Scheduled on 27th and 28th of March 2024
Course Coordinators
Prof. Nimal Punyasiri: - 077 340 8158
Ms. Anoma Jayasoma: - 077 778 8135
This is the Primary Registration form for the Workshop for Technical Officers & Laboratory Technicians program. Once you are registered here you will receive the course payment link.
Only limited seats are available please be kind enough to register soon.
Application Deadline: 15th March 2024

Staff and students of IBMBB, University of Colombo visited Nature's Beauty Creations Ltd (Nature's Secrets) on 17th February 2024. During the visit Staff and students of IBMBB had the opportunity to see the state-of-the-art modern factory, wastewater treatment plant and the Medicinal Plant Garden at the Nature's Secret premises. It was an educational and enjoyable event for our team and the students.

Training Course in Cell Culture Techniques

The Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IBMBB) is glad to inform you that the applications are being accepted for our Training Course in Cell Culture Techniques.

Apply now: https://forms.gle/75CZoYkkapWvTieFA

The course is suitable for young scientists, clinicians, academics, technical officers and postgraduate students, students awaiting higher studies in biological sciences and individuals who are interested in pursuing animal cell culture in their scientific fields.
The maximum number of participants is limited to 20.

Application Deadline Extended: 16th February 2024

More information: https://www.ibmbb.cmb.ac.lk/short-training-courses/

THE EMERGENCE OF SPECIFIC IMMUNOTHERAPY STRATEGIES,THE DEVELOPMENT (MOA)-BASED BIOASSAYS AND MICROSATELLITE INSTABILITY AS A PREDICTIVE BIOMARKER - Guest Talk

By Dr Nicholas Ng, Ph.D.,
A Scientist
General Manager of Promega Corporation
Singapore

On 23rd January 2024
At 10.00AM to 12.00PM
Venue - Conference Hall
Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology
& Biotechnology (IBMBB)
University of Colombo

Organized by AVON
Supported by Business Development Unit
IBMBB
Limited Seats - Apply now : https://forms.gle/stFMEUPwe6aayNoeA

We warmly encourage the participation of BSc, MSc, MPhil, and PhD students.

Postprandial Oxidative Stress and Inflammation- Understating a Silent Killer (Guest Lecture)

By Prof. Indika Edirisinghe, Ph.D,
Professor of Food Science and Nutrition,
Associate Director, Center for Nutrition Research,
Department of Food Science and Nutrition,
Illinois Institute of Technology.

On 18th January 2024
From 2.00pm to 3.00pm
At the Conference Hall, IBMBB
Organized by Business Development Unit
Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IBMBB)

Limited Seats - Apply now : https://forms.gle/evf2C34gu8XijAHj6

We warmly encourage the participation of all MSc, MPhil, and PhD students. This event will cover study opportunities in USA, offering valuable insights and fostering productive discussions relevant to your academic journey.

Training Course in Cell Culture Techniques

The Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IBMBB) is glad to inform you that the applications are being accepted for our Training Course in Cell Culture Techniques.

Apply now: https://forms.gle/75CZoYkkapWvTieFA

The course is suitable for young scientists, clinicians, academics, technical officers and postgraduate students, students awaiting higher studies in biological sciences and individuals who are interested in pursuing animal cell culture in their scientific fields.
The maximum number of participants is limited to 20.
Application Deadline Extended: 02nd January 2024

More information: https://www.ibmbb.cmb.ac.lk/short-training-courses/

A Training Course in Gene Cloning and Recombinant Protein Expression

A training course in “Gene Cloning and Recombinant Protein Expression” organized by the Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Colombo was successfully held from 20th to 24th November 2023 at the IBMBB premises. The Director of the IBMBB, Prof Prasanna Galhena welcomed the participants on the first day of the training course. The training course was resourced by Prof Jagathpriya Weerasena, Professor in Molecular Biology, IBMBB, Dr Nilupa Gunaratna, Scientific Assistant, IBMBB, Ms Thulangi, IBMBB and Ms Sandali, IBMBB. The training course was conducted for young scientists, academics, undergraduate/postgraduate students and students awaiting higher studies in biological sciences. The training course provided an opportunity to perform the latest as well as commonly used methods in modern biotechnology such as PCR amplification and cloning, preparing recombinant constructs, transformation, protein expression and purification, protein crystallization, getting structural insights of proteins using bioinformatics/ computer graphics-based exercises etc. The training course was a great opportunity for the participants to broaden their knowledge in the field of Gene Cloning and Recombinant Protein Expression. The training course concluded with an open discussion, where the participants shared their views on the training course and both its contents and organization were greatly appreciated.

First PhD in Bioinformatics from IBMBB being defended by Mr Kanchana Senanayake in the presence of his Principal Supervisor, Prof Erik Bongcam Rudloff, (Professor of Bioinformatics , Swedish University of Agriculture, Uppsala; Chairman, European Molecular Biology Network - EMBNet) who flew all the way from Sweden to Colombo to be present at the occasions and Co-Supervisor, Emeritus Prof Kamani Tennekoon.

IBMBB sincerely thank Prof Erik Bongcam Rudloff for his immense support and enthusiasm in developing the field of Bioinformatics since 2006. We missed co-supervisor, visionary Founder Director of IBMBB, Emeritus Prof Eric Karunanatake, at the occasion.

MASTER'S PROGRAM INTAKE FOR THE YEAR 2024

The application deadline has been extended.

Registrations are reopened for our Master's programs in Molecular Life Science and Cellular and Molecular Immunology until November 14, 2023. Local and international students can apply for the master's program. Special scholarships will be offered to international applicants.

For further details about the Master's programs, please visit: http://www.ibmbb.cmb.ac.lk/educ.../masters-programme-intake/

Apply online via self-registration in our Self-Service Portal (SSP): http://service.ibmbb.cmb.ac.lk/

How to register on the SSP : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F8HajiI550Q&t=1s

For further queries, send an email to [email protected]

Prevailing economic difficulties have resulted in seeking businesses & individuals looking for better prospects elsewhere. Thus the Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IBMBB) of the University remains a symbol of hope and resilience. It is actively working to uplift local businesses and improve the national economic scenario through innovative initiatives. The effort is reflected in a significant partnership between IBMBB and Fadna life science company. The collaboration has resulted in the development and introduction of innovative products, aiming to meet the diverse needs and expectations of consumers. These products, namely vernolac, satiny, ortho shield, and bio shape, were launched on August 23rd, 2022, under a licensing agreement with Fadna Life Science, showcasing the pivotal research and development led by Professor Sameera R. Samarakoon and his team at IBMBB.
Read More: https://cmb.ac.lk/royalty-transfer-partnership-between-fadna-life-science

Exploring the Wonders of IBMBB's Open Day Event in 2023

It was a day of remarkable exploration and discovery as the Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IBMBB) welcomed over 100 enthusiastic participants to the Open Day Event on October 20, 2023. This event, hosted within the IBMBB premises, offered a unique opportunity to share the marvels of biotechnology and molecular biology with the wider community.
IBMBB was honored to have the distinguished presence of the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Colombo, Senior Prof. H.D. Karunaratne, who graced the event, adding to its value and significance.

The Open Day was filled with engaging activities and insights, including:

1. Laboratory Tours: Visitors had the privilege to step inside our state-of-the-art laboratories, witnessing firsthand the groundbreaking research that occurs at IBMBB. These tours provided a unique and intimate look at the remarkable work conducted by our researchers.
2. Engaging Conversations: Our team of passionate researchers and educators engaged in thought-provoking discussions with participants. These conversations provided valuable insights into the dynamic and ever-evolving fields of biotechnology and molecular biology.
3. Academic Pathways: We presented information about our academic programs and short training courses, guiding potential participants towards their dreams of pursuing careers in these dynamic disciplines. Our educational offerings aim to empower future scientists and researchers.
4. Career Opportunities: Attendees had the opportunity to explore the diverse career prospects in the biotechnology and molecular biology sectors. The event also facilitated networking opportunities, allowing participants to connect with professionals in the field who already engaged with IBMBB.

The success of this Open Day was made possible through the unwavering support of our dedicated academic and non-academic staff. Their commitment and hard work contributed to creating an event that truly showcased the exciting opportunities available in these fields.
In addition to these enriching experiences, the Student Welfare Society of IBMBB organized a flash quiz competition for the participants, with more than 50 individuals participating. Winners were acknowledged with certificates, encouraging and celebrating their knowledge and enthusiasm.
Furthermore, the Staff Welfare Society arranged a delightful food stall, enhancing the overall experience for our participants by providing a variety of delicious refreshments.
The IBMBB Open Day Event in 2023 was a testament to the institute's commitment to fostering an environment of learning, research, and community engagement.

Training Course in Cell Culture Techniques

The Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology (IBMBB) is glad to inform you that the applications are being accepted for our Training Course in Cell Culture Techniques.
Apply now: https://forms.gle/75CZoYkkapWvTieFA

The course is suitable for young scientists, clinicians, academics, technical officers and postgraduate students, students awaiting higher studies in biological sciences and individuals who are interested in pursuing animal cell culture in their scientific fields.
The maximum number of participants is limited to 20.
Application Deadline: 15th December 2023
More information: https://www.ibmbb.cmb.ac.lk/short-training-courses/

Google Forms: Sign-in Access Google Forms with a personal Google account or Google Workspace account (for business use).

Training Course in Gene Cloning and Recombinant Protein Expression

20th to 24th November 2023 , University of Colombo

Apply Online : https://forms.gle/Fv8m39pctE43NTzz7

Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Colombo conducts a Training Course in Gene Cloning and Recombinant Protein Expression from 20th to 24th November 2023. This 45 hr course consists of theory and practical with hands-on experiences in genetic engineering.

This is suitable for young scientists, academics, undergraduate and postgraduate students, technical officers, students awaiting for higher studies in biological sciences (After A/L) and individuals who are interested in molecular biology and biotechnology.

The maximum number of participants is limited to 20.

Deadline for application : 10th November 2023

For more details, visit : http://www.ibmbb.cmb.ac.lk/short-training-courses/

Its Happening Today !!! Join us at Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biotechnology (IBMBB) Open Day 2023 !!!

Explore cutting-edge research, engage with our experts, visit our labs, find your interested paths and discover the future of Molecular Biology and Immunology. Don't miss out on a wonderful opportunity.

Flash Quiz Competition

Are you a biology undergraduate with a competitive spirit? Then don't miss out on the Flash Quiz Competition on October 20th, 2023 at the Conference Hall, IBMBB! This competition is open to all biology undergraduates, regardless of their background. Test your knowledge of biology and compete against other students for a chance to win prizes and certificates.

To register, please visit the following Google Form by October 18th: https://forms.gle/Drb2hCUpeekSuPkHA

For more details, please contact Mr. Avinash (President, SWS) - 0773168906 or Mr. Mishal Faizan (Scientific Assistant, BDU) at 07777330634.

Don't miss out on this exciting opportunity to challenge yourself and learn from others!

Join us at Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biotechnology (IBMBB) Open Day 2023 !!! Register through the below google form link
https://forms.gle/EWBYW9VzaBQuWq1U8

Explore cutting-edge research, engage with our experts, visit our labs, find your interested paths and discover the future of Molecular Biology and Immunology. Don't miss out on a wonderful opportunity.

IBMBB Open Day 2023 - Registration Form Pre registration form for IBMBB Open Day 2023 which will be held on 20th October 2023, At IBMBB premises