Natural Sciences: Wimeth Dissanayake '26

Major(s) and minor(s)

B.S. in Molecular Biology 

Pronouns

He/Him

Hometown

ÂÒÂ×Ç¿¼é, NY

Areas of interest/focus in research

Cellular Differentiation and Intracellular Trafficking

Labs / departments / offsite programs where research was conducted

Yeh Lab at the Center for Musculoskeletal Research, ÂÒÂ×Ç¿¼é Medical Center

Von Blume Lab at the Department of Cell Biology, Yale Medical School

About me...

Hello. I am a Junior majoring in Molecular Genetics from ÂÒÂ×Ç¿¼é, NY. I joined the Yeh lab in the summer before my first year, and my research has been based on using two-photon intravital imaging to look into the bone marrow in living mice. I am interested in the cellular mechanism of differentiation and how the microenvironment surrounding a cell can influence its behavior.

Currently, I am working on developing a model for hematopoietic disorders through low-dose irradiation to preserve the local microenvironment. Over the summer I looked into the mechanisms by which Neutrophils, a major immune cell in the body, produce granules during their differentiation.

How has your experience as a researcher influenced your career objectives?

I initially was more interested in working on genetic and bioengineering problems; however, my research has pushed me to look into problems more dealing with the cell and its development. As well I have become much more interested in immunology thanks to my exposure to it in research.

Campus organizations, programs, activities, clubs, awards/distinctions

I am the Editor-in-Chief at the Journal of Undergraduate Research, a Biol 217L and Biol 204 TA, and the Community Outreach Coordinator of UR Splash. I also am a RIG recipient and have presented abstracts at some local and national conferences.

Fun Fact: when I'm not doing research you can usually find me...

On the 5th floor of Hutchinson Hall

Areas where I may be particularly helpful

  • Research Conference or Presentation advice.
  • Publication advice.
  • Emailing and writing applications for research positions.

What advice do you have for prospective or new researchers?

It is important to, as an early researcher, to get a good idea of the background of your research. Even a simple investigation of the literature can give you great insight into the reasons for the work you carry out, and thereby can help with the carrying out and presentation of your research.

Email me at: wdissana@u.rochester.edu