Chamira Dilanka Fernando 31st Lorne Cancer Conference 2019

Chamira Dilanka Fernando

Dilanka Fernando is currently reading for his PhD in Biochemistry at Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Australia. His research focuses on STAT3, a transcription factor and signalling molecule which is crucial for cellular homeostasis, metabolism, development, and also implicated in a vast majority of human cancers. From using cutting edge techniques such as protein mass spectrometry and biochemical approaches, he has elucidated novel functional roles associated with STAT3 and how they contribute to tumour vulnerability. He is the recipient of many accolades including Scholar-in-Training Award from American Association for Cancer Research, Winner in 3-Minute Thesis Competitions, and Full-PhD Scholarship Awardee from Monash University, Australia. Dilanka obtained his Master’s Degree in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from University of Colombo, and his Bachelor’s Degree from Institute of Chemistry Ceylon, Sri Lanka. He has published several scientific papers in a wide range of disciplines including Biochemistry, Food Science/Nutrition and Medicinal Chemistry. Dilanka has functioned as a Lecturer for Biochemistry, Graduate Teaching Assistant/Demonstrator for chemistry undergraduates and also a co-supervisor for several undergraduate research projects. Dilanka plans seeking for Postdoctoral positions after his PhD to gain further experiences in mass-spectrometric approaches to understand disease biology.