Overview
Background
Dr. Akila Wijerathna-Yapa is an interdisciplinary Biotechnology scientist and Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Frazer Institute, University of Queensland, with over 12 years of expertise spanning Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Bioinformatics. Holding a PhD in Biochemistry from The University of Western Australia, an MSc in Molecular Biology from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, an MBA from the University of Staffordshire, and B.Sc. (Hons.) Sp. Biotechnology from The Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, he brings a rare combination of deep scientific expertise and strategic project management insight to the life sciences.
Dr. Wijerathna-Yapa's research is defined by his ability to integrate advanced technologies—including mass spectrometry-based proteomics, peptidomics, metabolomics, lipidomics, NMR spectroscopy, and transcriptomics—to unravel molecular complexities and translate multi-omics data into actionable insights. His work spans molecular biology, cell culture bioprocess optimisation, clinical biomarker discovery, and spatial biology, with postdoctoral experience at The University of Queensland and Dalhousie University, and collaborative partnerships with leading research institutions across Sri Lanka, China, Israel, Australia, and Canada.
With a strong foundation in advanced statistical data analysis and a proven track record in project management and scientific communication, Dr. Wijerathna-Yapa bridges the gap between scientific discovery and practical innovation. He has authored over 25 peer-reviewed publications and has been recognised with prestigious international awards including the Australian Government Global Talent Independent visa and fellowships from the Higher Education Academy (FHEA, UKPSF). He is passionate about leveraging interdisciplinary knowledge to drive transformative advancements in biotechnology and life sciences.
Availability
- Dr Akila Wijerathna Yapa is:
- Available for supervision
Fields of research
Qualifications
- Bachelor (Honours) of Agricultural Biotechnology, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka
- Masters (Research) of Plant Cell and Molecular Biology, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem
- Doctor of Philosophy of Biochemistry, The University of Western Australia
- Masters (Coursework) of Business Administration, Staffordshire University
- Fellow, The Higher Education Academy (UKPSF), The Higher Education Academy (UKPSF)
- Associate Fellow, The University of Western Australia Academy Fellowship Scheme, The University of Western Australia Academy Fellowship Scheme
Works
Search Professor Akila Wijerathna Yapa’s works on UQ eSpace
2012
Other Outputs
Application of biotechnology in intra cellular pathogen diagnostic of coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) in Sri Lanka
Wijerathna, Y.M.A.M. (2012). Application of biotechnology in intra cellular pathogen diagnostic of coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) in Sri Lanka. Makandura, Sri Lanka: Wayamba University of Sri Lanka.
2012
Journal Article
Assessment of inter and intra cultivar genetic and phenotypic variation in grain quality characteristics of Sri Lankan traditional aromatic rice (Oryza Sativa L.).
Wijerathna, Y.M.A.M., Kottearachchi, N.S. and Attanayaka, D.P.S.T.G. (2012). Assessment of inter and intra cultivar genetic and phenotypic variation in grain quality characteristics of Sri Lankan traditional aromatic rice (Oryza Sativa L.).. Tropical Agriculturist, 160, 123-133.
2011
Conference Publication
Sri Lankan fragrant rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties are associated with decreased salt tolerance
Wijerathna, Y.M.A.M., Kottearchchi, N.S. , Gimhani, D.R. and Sirisena, D.N. (2011). Sri Lankan fragrant rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties are associated with decreased salt tolerance. 11th agricultural research symposium, Makandura, Sri Lanka, 20- 21 September 2011. Makandura, Sri Lanka: Wayamba University of Sri Lanka.
Supervision
Availability
- Dr Akila Wijerathna Yapa is:
- Available for supervision
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Media
Enquiries
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