Meet Sri Lankan Researcher — Nadishka Jayawardena
What are you currently working on or worked on before?
I obtained my Ph.D. project from the University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand (2016–2020). My Ph.D. project involved investigating the structure and receptor interactions of an oncolytic (anti-cancer) virus called “Seneca Valley virus” (SVV) by using cryo-electron microscopy. Using this technique we were able to characterize two forms of capsids/particles, full capsids and procapsids in the SVV life cycle.
SVV procapsids were found to be antigenically similar to SVV full capsids, thereby highlighting their potential to be functionalized as nano-carriers for cancer therapeutics. Furthermore, we were able to identify anthrax toxin receptor 1 (ANTXR1), a receptor that is overexpressed in cancers as the high-affinity cellular receptor for SVV.
During this journey, one of my biggest personal achievements so far was receiving the Keith Williamson Medal for Excellence in Microscopy Research in New Zealand (2019).
What encouraged you to pursue your research topic?
I have always been intrigued by how understanding the structure of proteins could potentially reveal the function of those proteins. Though most of the viruses have earned a significant reputation for their pathogenic nature, some of the viruses have been extensively studied for their anti-cancer properties in their native state or engineered form.
Understanding the structure of such viruses and how they interact with cellular receptors holds the potential for developing potent viral strains for cancer treatments.
What inspires me the most is my work environment and the people in it. Having a great mentor and motivated lab members inspires me every day.
Can you share with us some of your publications?
Yes. You can find my publications here.
What lessons would you share with a budding researcher?
Firstly, I would strongly advise finding a project you can genuinely enjoy and a mentor with whom you can genuinely get along very well. Secondly, you should learn science not only to communicate with your peers but also to communicate with a broader, general audience. That’s where your greatest challenge lies- why should everyone care? why it matters to us?
As a researcher, I get the opportunity and freedom to design/carry out experiments to discover answers to key biological questions that could aid in therapeutic development. Knowing that someday my findings could improve the health and quality of life of a patient, motivates me to move forward with my research.
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?
Sri Lankan Science stands at a very good place in terms of providing students with fundamental knowledge. However, technology and methods are continuously developed around the world rapidly. Though it’s understandable that these technologies cannot be made available in Sri Lanka in the foreseeable future, it is imperative we educate the undergrads with the cutting-edge technology used in science around the world so that they are better prepared for the world outside our country!
