Indunil K. Piyankarage, a fourth-year doctoral student in the Biochemistry program in the Department of Chemistry at Marquette University, has been awarded the Dr. John J. Eisch Fellowship. Originally from Sri Lanka, Piyankarage conducts research under the mentorship of Dr. Nicholas J. Reiter, focusing on the molecular interactions that drive Ewing sarcoma, a rare and aggressive cancer. The fellowship, established through the generosity of Professor John J. Eisch and his wife, is awarded to a graduate student whose research has been judged by faculty to be outstanding.
“My research focuses on how certain proteins interact to drive cancer growth,” Piyankarage explains. “In Ewing sarcoma, an abnormal protein called EWS-FLI1 acts like a faulty control switch, turning genes on and off in ways that promote cancer.”
Piyankarage’s research specifically examines LSD1, an enzyme involved in modifying histone proteins. While LSD1 is known to be overexpressed in Ewing sarcoma, its exact role has remained unclear. Through her work, Piyankarage and her lab has discovered that LSD1 directly interacts with the EWS-FLI1 protein and plays a role in cancer development that is independent of its usual enzymatic activity.
“These findings are important because they improve our understanding of how this cancer develops at a molecular level and may help inform more effective treatments,” she says.
Piyankarage’s interest in biochemistry and cancer research stems from a desire to understand disease at its most fundamental level. “I’ve always been fascinated by how small molecular changes inside a cell can lead to major biological consequences,” she says.
She chose Marquette for its strong balance of research opportunities and supportive academic environment. “I was particularly drawn to the collaborative and student-centered culture, as well as the opportunity to work closely with faculty on meaningful research,” she notes.
Piyankarage credits Dr. Reiter’s mentorship as instrumental to her growth as a researcher. “He has encouraged me to think independently, design my own experiments, and take ownership of my work, while also providing guidance and support when needed,” she says.
Receiving the Dr. John J. Eisch Fellowship has had a significant impact on her academic journey. The award has allowed her to focus more fully on her research, pursue complex experimental approaches, and build confidence as an independent scientist.
“It has given me the support and motivation to continue striving for excellence in my work,” she says.
Piyankarage encourages other graduate students to pursue similar opportunities. “These programs not only provide financial support but also recognize the hard work and dedication that go into research,” she says.
Outside of the lab, Piyankarage enjoys traveling, exploring new cultures and architecture, and taking nature photographs, experiences that allow her to recharge and stay inspired in her work.
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