Biochemistry

Senior Prof C. N. R. A. Alles obtained his PhD from Tokyo Medical and Dental University, Japan, in 2009, and his BVSc with Second Class Honours from the University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. He currently serves as Senior Professor and Head of the Department of Biochemistry at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya, and has previously held several key academic and administrative appointments at the University, including Director of the International Relations Office. His teaching experience spans undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes in both Sri Lanka and Japan, with particular emphasis on biochemistry, pharmacology, and laboratory techniques. His research primarily focuses on bone biology, especially the role of RelB in bone homeostasis and osteoclastogenesis, as well as the regulation of bone formation and resorption through NF-κB, TNF-α, RANKL inhibitors, and herbal extracts. Prof. Alles has authored over 40 peer-reviewed publications, delivered more than 90 presentations at international scientific forums, and has received several national and international research awards and fellowships.

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Kumudu Perera, Ph.D., M.Phil., B.V.Sc., is a Senior Professor of Biochemistry at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya. She earned her Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the University of Glasgow in 2003 and her M.Phil. in Biochemistry from the University of Peradeniya in 1999. She has over 33 years of experience in undergraduate teaching and more than two decades of involvement in postgraduate education and research supervision. She is a Commonwealth Scholar, a Commonwealth Academic Fellow, a Fellow of the College of Veterinary Surgeons, and a Member of the College of Biochemists, Sri Lanka. She has served as Head of the Department and has made significant contributions to teaching across several faculties, including Dental Sciences, Allied Health Sciences, and Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science. Her academic engagement also extends to postgraduate programmes such as M.Sc. in Clinical Biochemistry and Experimental Biotechnology at the Postgraduate Institute of Science and M.Sc. in Food and Nutrition programme at the Postgraduate Institute of Agriculture.

Dr. Irushika Fernando (VSc, PhD), is a senior lecturer, Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya. Her research interests are in natural product chemistry and herbal medicine, and identification of enzyme inhibitors from Sri Lankan flora and fauna. She has received a professional qualification from the Institute of Chemistry (Chem Part I, Sep, 1994; A-grade Passes for Organic, Inorganic, Physical and general Chemistry). Beyond her research and teaching, she is dedicated to providing academic counselling, fostering the next generation of healthcare professionals

Dr. Ruwan Prematilake (MBBS), is a Lecturer in the Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya. He is interested in Toxicology in his research work. His guidance has shaped the journey of many young doctors and his commitment to faculty sets a remarkable example

Dr. A.W.D.T. Ambagaspitiya, is a lecturer in the Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya. She completed her MBBS in 2014 with a distinction in parasitology. She has contributed meaningfully to advancing research in her field. Her commitment to research, education and institutional development is deeply appreciated by the students and the faculty community.

Dr. Lalinda Maddumabandara, is a Lecturer (Probationary) in the Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Peradeniya. He obtained his MBBS degree from the University of Peradeniya in 2020. Following internship training in Paediatrics and General Surgery at the District General Hospital, Matale, he served in cardiology, endocrinology, and critical care–related clinical settings before joining academia. He completed an MSc in Human Nutrition at the Postgraduate Institute of Medicine, University of Colombo, in 2025.
Dr. Maddumabandara contributes to undergraduate teaching in biochemistry and nutrition, and to diploma courses in allied health sciences focusing on exercise-related metabolism and sports nutrition. His research interests include the molecular and metabolic basis of human nutrition, cardiovascular nutrition, exercise metabolism and hydration, and the biochemical effects of bioactive nutrients and dietary supplementation. He has authored several publications, including reviews on cardiac imaging and omega-3 fatty acids.