Reviewed by Mast. Shamresh Krishnamoorthy (Student of the Science Section)
A hands-on workshop on Recombinant DNA Technology was organised on 30th April for The Faculty of Biology of TCK, by the Department of Agricultural Biology Faculty of Agriculture, University of Peradeniya. The workshop was organised with a view to enhancing the theoretical knowledge and laboratory practical skills of the participants and bridging the gap between theory at an advanced level in molecular biology, and practice.
The workshop consisted of a series of complex and interactive practical sessions utilising resources which are usually inaccessible to students. Some of them included the correct handling of micropipettes, DNA extraction from biological samples, use of Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) for DNA amplification, and use of gel electrophoresis in separating and analysing fragments of DNA. The purpose of all these practicals was to give the participants a sound foundation in laboratory techniques in genetic engineering. Furthermore, these practicals enabled the students to lead out of the resource book and visualise the text they learn in the classrooms.
Apart from the practicals, a series of lectures were provided to give an in-depth perspective into the fundamentals behind and latest applications of the techniques being taught. The attendees appreciated extremely comprehensive lectures on Gel Electrophoresis and DNA Sequencing, the use of Restriction Enzymes, DNA Probes, and DNA Libraries, Screening and Transformation methods with focus on genetic manipulation in molecular biology.
To complete the programme, the students were led on a tour of the Ahead Skills Laboratory. The Skills Lab, which is an initiative established by the university to allow students to conduct their own research and practicals, was equipped with latest state of the art technology. This allowed the students to experience and engage with the latest innovations in science as well as gain a deeper understanding into how molecular research is carried out.
We express our heartiest gratitude to the Principal, Vice-Principal and the Sectional Head of the Science Section, for availing such an awe-inspiring experience to us. We also thank the Department of Agricultural Biology, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Peradeniya, for advice and assistance provided. A Special appreciation goes to Prof. H.M.V.G. Herath, Dr. D.V Jayathilake, Dr. W.H. Jayasinghe, Dr. Yamuna Somaratne, Dr. P.A.I.U. Hemachandra, and Dr. D.N. Balagalla for their lectures and practical sessions, and for their technical and academic support throughout the day.
Further, our gratitude goes to Senior Lecturer Dr. V.N.S. Sirimalwatta, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Peradeniya, for convening the entire workshop which, only introduced us to the miracles of Genetic Technology, but also gave us an idea of what we can explore in our further studies.
