Distinguished Speaker Series – Talk 12 – Thilani Bhagya Jayakody

The Twelfth Talk of the CUFSAA-NA Distinguished Speaker Series organized in association with the Faculty of Science, University of Colombo by Dr. Thilani Bhagya Jayakody on May 25, 2026, 10:30AM Eastern Time (May 25, 2026 8:00pm Sri Lankan Time).

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Event Date & Time: May 25, 2026, 10:30AM Eastern Time (May 25, 2026 8:00pm Sri Lankan Time)

How to Join: All talks of the Distinguished Speaker Series are FREE and delivered via Zoom Technology.

Zoom Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/86366262132?pwd=dhYEgCgdYGudroIrlaHGz2KLWOyq93.1

Meeting ID: 882 6626 2132
Passcode: 007671

Title: Evaluation and Development of Resources for Genome Editing and Genetic Engineering in Solanum tuberosum

Speaker: Thilani Bhagya Jayakody, PhD. Postdoc and BREEDOME Manager, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Aarhus University, Denmark.

Abstract:Gene editing has emerged as the most precise method used today for validating gene function and introducing traits to improve crop quality. While a powerful tool when available, its broad applicability in plants is limited by highly genotype dependent methods and inefficient editing systems. The standard method is contingent on the success of several independent steps including identifying target sequences, introducing reagents into plant cells, efficient on target editing activity, recovery of edited cells as whole plants, and the accurate evaluation of target outcomes. If at all attainable, this process is still cumbersome and can span from several months to even years to complete. Developing efficient pipelines for gene editing is an asset for studying or improving any plant species. This research project aims to address limitations to gene editing in potato (Solanum tuberosum) through evaluation and optimization of germplasm amenability, development of genomic resources, and a comprehensive analysis of on and off target editing outcomes.

Moderator: Prof. Cholani Weebadde, Plant Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing, Michigan, USA.

Additional Ways to view: You can listen to the talk via FBLive and YouTube Live as well.

CUFSAA Distinguished Speaker Series is organized by the Speaker Series subcommittee of CUFSAA-NA in association with the Faculty of Science, University of Colombo.  If you would like to contact the subcommittee please write to us at speaker-series@cufsaa.org. We are particularly interested in hearing from our members with topic and speaker suggestions. Thank you!