Welcome to the Department of Zoology!

Established in the 1930s the Department of Zoology is one of the oldest of such entities in the University System of Sri Lanka. It has progressed from its inception to a department that is currently offering a range of courses that are at the cutting-edge of research and development in the country.

\ Molecular Biology and Immunology We have fully equipped labs that facilitate immunological & molecular biological applications that regulate the outcome of human diseases including dengue and malaria. Evolutionary Biology - Ongoing research involves molecular systematics of insects and birds shedding light on factors that drive speciation. Research looks at the genetic basis of Sri Lankan endemic species. Physiology - Prof. W. D. Ratnasooriya, who is a leading researcher in Asia, working on bioactivity & health benefits of natural products (e.g. herbal compounds, tea, rice), and on aspects of mammalian reproductive physiology and pharmacology. Ecotoxicology - Many research projects monitoring the levels of environmental contaminants (agrochemicals & heavy metals) and their impact on humans, fish and other aquatic fauna and on the ecosystems at large. We offer a Post graduate Diploma on Ecotoxicology and Environmental Management.

Conservation Biology - Research undertaken covers applied ecological, behavioural and genetic aspects of bats, small mammals, amphibians and reptiles that facilitate conservation efforts in the country. Many projects and field sessions provide hands-on training and impart knowledge on managing wildlife-related issues. We offer a Diploma in Biodiversity Management. Ornithology - Prof. Sarath Kotagama spearheads many projects that deal with biology, ecology, behavior and conservation of birds. FOGSL, Department of Zoology, which is the local affiliate of Bird Life International, offers students hands on experience in bird ringing and outreach activities. Environmental Science Expertise lies in areas of environmental impacts and monitoring. Other areas of expertise are Wetland and Landscape Ecology, Limnology and Ecotourism. We offer a M.Sc. in Environment Science. Climate Change - We have expertise in Climate Change Science: areas of research involves the carbon cycle, air pollution monitoring and modeling green house gas emissions in Sri Lanka and developing adaptation plans and policies. We offer a Post graduate Diploma in Climate Change and Pollution Management.

Our courses are designed to Take on a multidisciplinary

approach and hence will give students a wide range of basic and applied knowledge and skills Provide an opportunity to participate in field practical sessions and residential workshops Allow students to engage in a research project of their own choice Provide training for students that would enable them to obtain scholarships for foreign and local Ph.D degrees Expose students to local and foreign expertise. Provide opportunities for on -the job training Increase employment opportunities in a wide range of fields such of biotechnology, molecular biology and immunology, conservation biology and management and policy.

Some topics in the curriculum

First Year Evolution & Biogeography Animal Behaviour

Soft Skills
We offer numerous opportunities to develop a range of soft skills through field projects, on the job training, presentations, report writing and interactive discussions embedded into the curriculum

Course Topics

Second Year Biosystematics Environmental Management Third Year General Biological Psychology Disaster Risk Management Environment & Industry Landscape Ecology Public Policy & Social Movement Ornamental Fisheries & Aquaculture Fourth Year General (4G) Ecotourism Business Accounting Project Development Environmental Journalism Entrepreneurship Development On-site Training projects Third Year Special Some general degree courses and Ecotoxicology Molecular Biology Conservation Biology Environmental Economics Sustainable Development Genetics & Genomics Conservation Genetics Climate change Fourth Year Special Aquaculture Molecular Immunology Ornithology Entomology Environmental Education & Journalism Wildlife Management Project development Molecular Medicine

Department of Zoology University of Colombo

Come explore, learn and experience the

New streams offered

From this year the Department will introduce courses under the themes Business and Environment (4G) and Immunology and Integrative Molecular Biology (special stream). This will give the students a rich learning experience in diverse applied fields.

Science of the

Fascinating world of animals and the environment

Climate Change Research Station

The Department in collaboration with Dilmah Conservation (a member of the Dilmah Group of companies) will have in place, a research station in the picturesque hills of Nawalapitiya. This will provide students with residential facilities to study the effects of climate change and other related phenomena.

issues.

BEEZ Base for Enthusiasts of

Environmental Science & Zoology

You would have the opportunity to be members of BEEZ, which will facilitate and promote awareness, interaction and exchange of knowledge between

2 scientists and the community.