I am a researcher and a second-year PhD student in Medical Sciences at The Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, working under the guidance of Dr Hajime Murakami in the Murakami Lab. I am honoured to have received two awards to fund my PhD studies: the School of Medicine Elphinstone Award and the School of Medicine Award. My research focuses on the molecular mechanisms underlying meiotic recombination initiation. Specifically, I investigate the interplay between cohesin and chromosome axis proteins, a crucial process for accurate chromosomal recombination. My work employs advanced ChIP-seq and bioinformatics techniques.

Prior to my PhD, I completed a BSc in Genetics, Biochemistry, and Biotechnology at the University of Bangalore, India, graduating with first-class. I was then awarded a prestigious Chevening Scholarship from the UK government, a programme that supports emerging global leaders, which enabled me to complete a Master’s degree in Molecular Medicine at the University of Aberdeen. During my Master’s, I conducted notable research on WAPL, identifying its interactions with cohesin subunits to better understand the mechanisms of cohesin release.

Murakami Lab primarily investigates the initiation of meiotic recombination, focusing on the programmed formation of DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs), which are catalyzed by specific DSB proteins. Our aim is to define the molecular framework that regulates the binding of DSB proteins along meiotic chromosomes, establishing fundamental principles for robust meiotic recombination. My role is to understand the molecular mechanisms of axis proteins in initiating this process.

Our research has significant implications for medical science. When recombination fails, it can lead to an incorrect number of chromosomes or improperly assembled chromosomes being passed to sperm and eggs. This type of chromosomal abnormality is a leading cause of miscarriage and congenital syndromes, including Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, Patau syndrome (trisomy 21, 18, 13), and Turner syndrome (monosomy X). Overall, approximately 0.3% of newborns are affected by an incorrect chromosome number. Through our work, we aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of these mechanisms, which may ultimately enhance reproductive health and reduce the prevalence of chromosomal disorders.

M.Sc Molecular Medicine - University of Aberdeen 

M.Sc Experimental Biotechnology - University of Peradeniya 

B.Sc Biotechnology (Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Genetics) 

Genetics, Chromosome Biology; interested in: Meiosis, Homologous Recombination, DNA Double strand breaks

• Chevening Scholarship 2021 - UK Government’s International Awards Programme.
• College highest award (CREAM) for most deserving Person at Garden City College 
• Best outgoing Sri Lankan Student Award