ICHD – 2026 – Workshop

Workshop on Structural Biology and Protein Crystallography: A Bioinformatics Approach

The ICHD-2026 committee is pleased to announce a hands-on, in-person workshop on Structural Biology and Protein Crystallography Using Bioinformatics Tools, conducted by Dr Velupillai Srikannathasan.

This workshop is designed to introduce participants to modern structural biology techniques through a computational (“dry lab”) approach. Participants will learn how researchers determine and analyse three-dimensional protein structures using freely available international databases and software tools.

Dr. Velupillai Srikannathasan is an experienced scientist in structural biology and drug discovery, currently associated with Arctoris, UK. His research spans medicinal chemistry, crystallography, immunogenicity, and therapeutic development, with significant contributions to antibacterial, oncology, and epigenetics research. He has authored numerous scientific publications and actively collaborates on innovative approaches to accelerate the discovery and development of next-generation therapeutics.

Dr Velupillai Srikannathasan

Researcher at University of Oxford

PhD in Biomolecular Sciences
BSc Biochemistry

Learning Outcomes

Participants will gain practical experience in:

  • Accessing and downloading protein structures from the Protein Data Bank (PDB)
  • Understanding crystallographic data and electron density maps
  • Protein structure visualisation and analysis
  • Structure refinement and validation using computational tools
  • Investigating protein–ligand and drug–target interactions
  • Interpreting structural information for biomedical and pharmaceutical research

Recommended Software

Participants are encouraged to install the following free software before the workshop:

  • PyMOL (Educational/Open-Source Version)
  • Coot – for model building and electron density interpretation
  • Phenix or CCP4 (CCP4i2) – for structure refinement and crystallographic analysis

Installation instructions and download links will be provided to registered participants prior to the workshop.

Eligibility

The workshop is open to:

  • Academic staff
  • Undergraduate and postgraduate students

This workshop welcomes participants from across the academic community who are interested in enhancing their knowledge, developing new skills, and engaging in collaborative learning and discussion within the subject area.

Registration

Limited places are available:

  • 20 places for staff members
  • 40 places for students

Registration Fees

  • For Staff : LKR 2,000
  • For Student : LKR 500

* Registration will be confirmed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Certificate

A Certificate of Participation will be awarded to all participants who successfully complete the workshop.

Participants will receive the certificate upon fulfilling the workshop requirements. The certificate provides evidence of active involvement and can be used to support academic and professional development activities.

Why Attend?

Structural biology has become an essential component of modern biomedical and pharmaceutical research. This workshop provides a unique opportunity to gain practical skills in protein structure analysis, molecular visualisation, and drug-binding studies without requiring access to specialised crystallography facilities. The knowledge and skills acquired will be valuable for research projects, postgraduate studies, and future careers in life sciences and healthcare research.

Reach Us!

+94 (0) 77 051 7208 (Convener)

+94 (0) 71 229 9005 (Secretary)

ichd@univ.jfn.ac.lk