13^th Annual Scientific Sessions & International Conference – 2025/26

Theme: “Ethics, Collaboration & Popularization: Shaping the Future of Animal Research”

Date: 24^th and 25^th January 2026

The 13th Scientific Sessions and International Conference of the Sri Lanka Association for Laboratory Animal Science (SLALAS) was successfully held on 24th–25th January 2026 at the Renuka City Hotel, Colombo.

Organized under the theme “Ethics, Collaboration and Popularization: Shaping the Future of Animal Research,” the conference brought together local and international experts, researchers, academics, and students to strengthen scientific dialogue and promote responsible laboratory animal science. The event was graced by Prof. Neelika Malavige of the Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, who served as the Chief Guest and Keynote Speaker, while Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa, Honorable Minister of Health and Mass Media, attended as the Guest of Honour.

Day 1 featured engaging keynote lectures, student research presentations, and insightful discussions on contemporary issues in laboratory animal science, animal welfare, research methodologies, and ethical practices. The scientific sessions were further enriched by eminent speakers including Prof. Vir Vikram (CT University, Punjab), Prof. Ashoka Dangolla (University of Peradeniya), and Dr. Kalpani Rathnayake (CINEC Campus, Malabe).

Day 2 continued the momentum with inspiring scientific exchange and strengthened collaboration. The sessions once again provided a valuable platform to explore current and emerging topics in laboratory animal science, ethical research practices, animal welfare standards, and innovative methodologies. Guest speeches were delivered by Dr. Vijay Pal Singh, President of the Laboratory Animal Science Association (LASA), India; Prof. Pooja Gupta from the All-India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi; Prof. Marcial Frajblat, General Secretariat of ICLAS; Prof. Kavindra Wijesundara from the University of Peradeniya; Prof. Mangala Gunathilake; and Dr. Sachini Amarasekara from the University of Colombo. Their contributions highlighted both global and regional perspectives on strengthening ethical standards, enhancing scientific rigor, and building national capacity in laboratory animal science.

A special highlight of the conference was the recognition of excellence through the Onkoseek Bio Awards for Best Poster Presentation and Best Oral Presentation, alongside the prestigious Dr. Shamni Jayasekara Award for Best Oral Presentation.

Overall, the 13th SLALAS Scientific Sessions and International Conference successfully fostered knowledge sharing, professional networking, and collaborative partnerships, reinforcing Sri Lanka’s commitment to advancing ethical and high-quality animal research.

Full photo albums – https://www.facebook.com/slalasci

Conference program click here