Meet Sri Lankan Researcher — Amali Shanya Fernando
What are you currently working on or worked on before?
On my PhD project, that is based on studying the ancient DNA of early human settlers of Sri Lanka.
What encouraged you to pursue your research topic?
My MSc supervisor approached me with this PhD project.
What is the name of your current institute?
Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology & Biotechnology.
Where do you find your best inspiration for your work?
Not a place, but every time I meet someone who is inspired by science, I get inspired too.
Can you share with us some of your publications?
Yes, you can find them on my Researchgate profile.
What’s one of your biggest personal achievements so far?
The opportunity to work on the first ancient DNA study in Sri Lanka.
What lessons would you share with a budding researcher?
Follow your passion, don’t get disheartened by the failures. Turn the failures as lessons and keep going forward.
What motivated you to be a researcher?
I’ve always wanted to pursue a career in research. Specifically, research related to humans.
If there is a chance, will you help build research in Sri Lanka?
Yes, absolutely.
According to your opinion, what are the changes that the Sri Lankan education system needs to do, in order to meet the requirement of the international industry and academia?
The education system needs a lot of revision. A lot of practical knowledge needs to be included. I feel students should be encouraged to follow their passion and not grades. Introducing career guide counselling from a school level will definitely have a huge positive impact.
