Kasun Godagedara's experience in Laboratory Research at the University of Helsinki - job shadowing visit.

On April 7-11, 2025, Kasun Godagedara, Research Fellow from OH-Boost team, participated in a five-day job shadowing experience at the Viral Zoonoses Research Unit, University of Helsinki. This visit focused on laboratory research within the context of infectious diseases, offering hands-on exposure to high-level biosafety environments and state-of-the-art laboratory practices. The unit, part of the Emerging Infections Research Group, specializes in zoonotic viruses and operates Biosafety Level 3 (BSL-3) laboratories, ensuring safe handling of high-risk pathogens.

Key Learning Outcomes

The job shadowing was designed to advance key competencies in laboratory research:

• In-depth understanding of experimental design and lab-based workflows

• Mastery of laboratory techniques including RNA extraction and qPCR

• Application of rigorous biosafety and cleanroom protocols in BSL-3 settings

• Familiarity with quality assurance and equipment maintenance procedures

• Development of data analysis and bioinformatics interpretation skills

• Strengthened communication and teamwork in a lab setting

• Insights into international laboratory standards and collaborative research models
  
  

Key Highlights

The structured programme included daily interactions with lab professionals at different career stages:

• Prof. Ravi Kant introduced the unit’s research, spanning virus-host interactions and diagnostics, supported by international collaborations such as with the University of Nairobi.

• Dr. Ilja Weinstein presented his bioinformatics work, including the “lazypipe” system for viral metagenomic analysis, leading to a planned collaboration on fecal extracellular vesicles.

• PhD candidate Griphin Ochola showcased sample processing workflows from Kenyan field sites to molecular analysis, emphasizing precise technique and strict BSL-3 safety.

• Lab Manager Simo Miettinen shared practical knowledge of laboratory infrastructure, equipment coordination, training, and logistical planning.

• Dr. Eda Altan Tarakci concluded the visit with a guided review of biosafety practices and her global perspective on virology lab research.
  
  

Knowledge Transfer

Kasun’s experience has significantly enriched our understanding of laboratory operations in virological research. The exposure to highly specialized equipment, safety protocols, and international lab management strategies will inform improvements in our own lab environment. This visit not only reinforced technical proficiency but also established a foundation for ongoing scientific collaboration and knowledge sharing in the field of laboratory-based infectious disease research.