Iromi Wanigasuriya, mentee in the 2018 MedTech-Pharma program in VIC (The University of Melbourne) Image: Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research
I am a third year PhD student at Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research (WEHI), department of Medical biology, University of Melbourne. Focus of my PhD is on epigenetics modifier SMCHD1, a protein involved in human diseases such as Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) and Bosma arhinia and micropthalimia syndrome (BAMS), a rare developmental disorder in which the nose fails to form. My research involves the use of next generation sequencing and advanced microscopy techniques.
Recently my research has been recognised in several ways including:
- Best Student Poster award at the 40th Lorne Genome Conference, Lorne, Australia, 2019
- FIG student bursary awarded at Light Microscopy Australia conference held in Brisbane, Australia, 2019
I was also a finalist in the “Under the Coverslip” imaging competition, University of Melbourne and this image is currently on public display as part of Melbourne Metro Tunnel construction project for the duration of the project.
Apart from my PhD studiesI’m currently working as a scientist mentor at Gene Technology Access Centre (GTAC) and as a teaching assistant for the Epigenetics course by University of Melbourne. I’m also quite passionate about science communication and regularly volunteer at events to promote scientific discovery and to increase the public awareness for science and research.
You can find Iromi on: