Behind the Test Tube: Q&A
Lakshan Manathunga—Postdoctoral Associate
Where is home/Where did you grow up?
I’m from Sri Lanka, a beautiful tropical island just below India, blessed with warm, summer like weather throughout the year.
Why did you choose chemistry as a career?
As a child, I was fascinated by a novel about two teenagers who used their scientific knowledge to survive on an island until they were rescued. As I grew older, I became intrigued by the idea that all living matter is composed of chemical building blocks, which sparked my desire to understand the natural world at a deeper level.
What do you like to do when not in the department?
In my free time, I enjoy relaxing and spending time with my family. My wife and I are both food enthusiasts, and we're always excited to discover and try new cuisines and restaurants.
A Rochester must?
If you have kids, like I do, the Strong National Museum is a must visit. There are also countless parks and outdoor activities around Rochester to explore and enjoy.
Feast/meal of the times? Details, please!
Sri Lankan rice and curry: white rice served with extra spicy chicken curry, dhal curry, a traditional Sri Lankan salad, coconut sambol, and papadam.
A holiday that rocks? Care to tell us why?
Halloween is my favorite holiday. I love seeing my kids dress up in different costumes each year, and I always enjoy taking them trick-or-treating. It also gives me the perfect excuse to sneak a piece of candy or two from their stash!
Ask me about…
Amyloid Chemistry, Peptide Self-Assembly, Tennis. Also, ask me about Sri Lanka and its many beautiful travel destinations. I’m always happy to talk about my home country and recommend places to visit.
The goal of this initiative is to highlight the diversity of backgrounds and perspectives in the Department of Chemistry and help our community develop stronger connections and synergies. You can think of these spotlights as the beginning of a conversation that we very much hope you will continue in the corridors of Hutch and beyond.
If you wish to contribute to this initiative, please complete our questionnaire.