Department of Biotechnology

Department Overview

Biotechnology is a broad scientific discipline focused on biological technologies that improve human health and the environment. The subject covers the principles and applications of utilizing organisms, cells, or biological processes to create new products and technologies. These methods are applied in sectors such as food manufacturing, healthcare, agriculture, energy production, industrial manufacturing, and the remediation of polluted environments.

History and Facilities

The Department of Biotechnology was established in 2001 within the Faculty of Agriculture and Plantation Management. The department’s biotechnology laboratory, also founded in 2001, has expanded from minimal initial facilities into a well-equipped space for practical sessions and research in molecular biology, microbiology, and plant tissue culture. The first group of fifteen specialization students graduated from the faculty in 2006.

Academic Expertise

The department is guided by eight permanent academic staff members, all of whom hold PhDs. Their areas of expertise include molecular biology, genetics and plant breeding, genetic engineering, microbiology, biochemistry, plant tissue culture, natural products chemistry, fungal genomics, fish immunology, and bioinformatics. Departmental operations are additionally supported by five academic support staff and five non-academic staff members.

Graduate and Postgraduate Success

Over the past twenty-five years, the department has produced 337 specialized graduates. Currently, 74 undergraduate students are specializing in the discipline. The department also maintains a focus on postgraduate education through research studies. To date, three PhD and four MPhil degrees have been completed.

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Vision of the Department:

To be an acclaimed and recognized academic department for biotechnology education in Sri Lanka and the region.

Mission of the Department:

Empowering students with knowledge, skills, attitudes and values to provide skilful biotechnology professionals and technologies through innovative education programmes to serve the global society.

Head’s Message

Dr. (Ms.) Priyanwada Warakagoda

Department of Biotechnology

Welcome to the Department of Biotechnology of the Faculty of Agriculture and Plantation Management, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka.
Since its establishment, the Department of Biotechnology has been committed to advancing excellence in biotechnology education, research, innovation, and community engagement. Our vision is to be recognized as a leading center for biotechnology education and research in Sri Lanka and beyond, contributing meaningfully to sustainable agricultural development, scientific advancement, and national prosperity.
The Department plays a pivotal role in undergraduate and postgraduate education by contributing to the B.Sc. Agriculture and B.Sc. Biosystems Technology degree programmes. Our academic offerings provide students with a strong foundation in biotechnology-related disciplines, while fostering critical thinking, innovation, and practical skills required to address emerging challenges in agriculture and the life sciences.
Research and innovation remain at the heart of our mission. Our academic staff actively engage in multidisciplinary and collaborative research with national and international partners, generating knowledge and technologies that support sustainable agriculture, environmental conservation, food security, and bio-based industries. The Department has steadily expanded its research portfolio through competitive grants, scholarly publications, technology development initiatives, and outreach programmes that directly benefit farming communities, entrepreneurs, and industry stakeholders.
A significant milestone in our journey has been the establishment of modern biotechnology facilities and specialized research laboratories, strengthening our capacity to deliver high-quality research, training, and extension services. Through initiatives such as plant tissue culture, agricultural biotechnology services, and entrepreneurship-oriented training programmes, we strive to bridge the gap between scientific innovation and practical application.
As we continue to grow, our commitment remains focused on nurturing future biotechnology professionals, advancing impactful research, and fostering partnerships that contribute to national and global development goals.
I warmly invite you to explore our department, learn about our academic programmes, research activities, facilities, staff, students, and outreach initiatives, and discover the many opportunities available through biotechnology at Wayamba University of Sri Lanka.

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