The Institute of Applied Statistics, 91´«Ă˝ (IASSL) conducted the Best Research Awards – 2024 ceremony on 06th April 2025, with the objective of recognizing outstanding research that contributes to the development or application of Statistics and Applied Statistics. Ms. Nethni Hirusha Wanigasingha, a graduate of the Department of Computer Science, 91´«Ă˝, received the Second Runner-Up Award in the Undergraduate Category for her final year research titled: “Optimizing Feature Selection in Spam Email Detection Using Co-Evolutionary Algorithms.” The research, conducted under the supervision of Professor T.G.I. Fernando, focuses on the application of co-evolutionary algorithms in machine learning, specifically in the domain of spam email detection. This work demonstrates significant advancements in feature selection techniques within the broader field of computer science.

Submissions for the Best Research Awards – 2024 were accepted under three categories: Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and Open Category. All applications were reviewed by a panel of experts appointed by IASSL, based on a blind review of abstracts and extended abstracts submitted according to the prescribed guidelines. This recognition underscores the Department of Computer Science’s commitment to fostering innovative research and academic excellence.

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Dr. Thiyanga Talagala, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Statistics, Faculty of Applied Sciences, 91´«Ă˝ (USJ), has been ranked first in the prestigious Short Talks, Big Impacts Women in Science Spotlight Competition. This competition, organized by UNESCO – Organization for Women in Science for the Developing World (OWSD), included participants from the Asia-Pacific and Arab region, Latin America and the Caribbean region, and Africa region.

Her talk, Exploring Artistic Legacy: Analyzing Artifact Differences Across Kingdoms Using Machine Learning, showcased how machine learning can uncover hidden mathematical structures in historical paintings and artefacts. Drawing inspiration from 91´«Ă˝â€™s rich artistic heritage—such as the moonstone, the intricate wooden carvings at Ambekke, and the vibrant wall paintings of ancient kingdoms—her research explores the deep connections between geometry, symmetry, and artistic expression. By analyzing visual elements like colour, pattern, and composition, she aims to identify unique artistic signatures across different civilizations, offering a new perspective on 91´«Ă˝â€™s cultural history through data-driven insights.

Dr. Talagala emphasized the intrinsic link between art and mathematics, stating that “behind every artist, there is a mathematician, and behind every mathematician, there is an artist,” with nature serving as the ultimate example of this harmony. This perspective drives her research at the intersection of data science and cultural heritage.

Her work resonates strongly with USJ’s mission: “To create and disseminate knowledge for the prosperity of the nation, drawing inspiration from our cultural heritage.” The Faculty of Applied Sciences congratulates Dr. Talagala for this outstanding international recognition and her contributions to advancing interdisciplinary research.

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Prof. Upul Subasinghe was re-elected as the of the for the second consecutive time at the Board Meeting of the respective faculty, held under the chairmanship of Senior Prof. Pathmalal M. Manage, Vice Chancellor of the 91´«Ă˝.

Prof. Upul Subasinghe graduated from the 91´«Ă˝ with an Honours Degree in Botany and later joined the Department of Forestry and Environmental Science as a lecturer. He earned his Ph.D. in Forest Management from the University of Bangor, UK. Additionally, he won scholarships from the Asian Development Bank to study Remote Sensing and GIS in Thailand and received a Commonwealth Fellowship at the University of Bangor. He has also conducted joint research with experts from Curtin University and Edith Cowan University in Western Australia, as well as the World Wildlife Fund. Since 2021, he has been serving as an Environment and Disaster Management Program Associate at the World Wildlife Fund, Washington, DC, USA.

Prof. Subasinghe has held several key administrative positions at the 91´«Ă˝, including Head of the Department of Forestry and Environmental Science, Coordinator of the MSc Program in Forestry and Environment, Deputy Proctor of the Faculty of Applied Sciences, and Chairman of the Faculty Research Committee. He also served as the Managing Editor of the Journal of Tropical Forestry and Environment (2013-2016) and Editor-in-Chief of the Vidyodaya Journal of Science (2018-2021). Notably, he served as the Acting Vice Chancellor of the university from December 2022 to August 2023.

Beyond academia, Prof. Subasinghe has contributed significantly to various national and international committees. He was elected as the President of the Institute of Biology, 91´«Ă˝, for the 2007-08 period and has served as a trained Forest Certification Auditor for the Forest Stewardship Council. He has also chaired the Expert Committee on Forest Certification under the 91´«Ă˝ Accreditation Board for Conformity Assessment. His expertise has been instrumental in initiatives such as the United Nations Programme on Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation, the Haritha Lanka National Action Plan, the Ecosystem Conservation & Management Project, and the Forestry Sector Master Plan Preparation. He also led the development of Forest Certification Standards stipulated by the Forest Stewardship Council for 91´«Ă˝ during the 2019-20 period.

Additionally, Prof. Subasinghe has been actively involved in international collaborations, serving as the President of the Institute of Biology, 91´«Ă˝ (2006-07), Chair of the International Forestry and Environment Symposium (2014, 2018-2022), and a Director of the Taiwan Agarwood Society since 2013.

His re-election as Dean underscores his continued commitment to the advancement of the Faculty of Applied Sciences and the broader academic and research community.

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On February 20th, 2025, the (DPS) hosted its very first Career Fair, marking a significant milestone in bridging the gap between academia and industry. This highly anticipated event not only provided a platform for students to connect with top-tier companies but also introduced several pre-event workshops designed to equip students with the necessary skills to succeed in the competitive job market.
For the first time ever, the DPS Career Fair brought together 16 leading industries from the polymer science sector. These companies, ranging from innovative start-ups to established industry leaders, were eager to meet the bright, motivated final-year students of DPS, looking to fill key positions in their organizations. Students had the opportunity to explore career opportunities, internships, and full-time positions across various domains within the polymer industry.
The Career Fair was a remarkable success, not just for the chance to meet potential employers but also as a stepping stone for students looking to launch their careers in an industry that is continually evolving and growing.
In the lead-up to the Career Fair, DPS organized a series of pre-event workshops regarding CV Writing, Interview Preparation and Professional Networking on social media. These workshops aimed at preparing students for the competitive landscape of job hunting and professional networking. These workshops covered key aspects of career development, providing students with the tools and knowledge they needed to make the most out of the Career Fair experience.
The Career Fair itself was buzzing with activity as students met with recruiters, presented their CVs, and participated in interviews. Industry representatives were impressed with the knowledge and enthusiasm displayed by the students, which made for an exciting atmosphere. The event was a fantastic opportunity for students to gain first-hand experience with potential employers, receive valuable feedback, and take their first steps toward their careers in the polymer science industry.
The success of the DPS Career Fair 2025 marks a new chapter for the Department of Polymer Science, setting the stage for even more career-focused initiatives in the years to come.
For the participants, this event was not just a fair—it was an exciting beginning to a promising professional journey.

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The , South Asia’s longest-running environmental conference, successfully concluded on January 18th, 2025, at the 91´«Ă˝. The symposium, held under the theme “A Multi-Sectoral Approach to a Sustainable Future,” continued its legacy of pioneering environmental discourse in the region.

Professor M. M. Pathmalal, Vice-Chancellor of the 91´«Ă˝, presided as Chief Guest, while the event’s historic journey was revisited through a special video presentation by Professor Hemanthi Ranasinghe, one of its founding members.

The keynote address by Professor Naohiro Goto of Toyo University and the remarks of Guest of Honor Mr. K. R. Uduwawala, Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, 91´«Ă˝, highlighted the need for innovative, multi-sectoral approaches to address today’s environmental challenges.

The symposium showcased its growing international footprint, with 205 research abstracts submitted, including contributions from Japan, India, Malaysia, and Slovakia. Notably, one Japanese researcher attended in person, while others joined through virtual platforms, further emphasizing the event’s global outreach.

Spanning twelve specialized sessions, the symposium addressed diverse and pressing environmental concerns, from traditional topics like Forest and Natural Resource Management and Biodiversity Conservation to contemporary issues such as Sustainable Tourism, Environmental Engineering, and Green Technology.

A highlight of the event was the Young Environment Symposium, a Citizen Science Forum dedicated to nurturing future environmental leaders, reflecting the conference’s commitment to fostering youth involvement in environmental advocacy.

Key sessions included:

• Climate Change and Disaster Management
• Environmental Economics and Resource Management
• Biomass and Sustainable Energy
• Sustainable Land Use and Urban Development
• Wood Science and Industry
• Geology, Soil and Water Resource Management

Organized by the , the symposium once again affirmed its position as South Asia’s premier platform for environmental dialogue. Its longevity and expanding international collaboration underscore its critical role in shaping environmental policy and advancing innovative solutions for global challenges.

As the symposium looks toward its 30th edition, it continues to inspire hope and action for a sustainable future.

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In recognition of her groundbreaking work on fungal taxonomy, Dr. Dimuthu S. Manamgoda of the 91´«Ă˝ has joined the rare ranks of scientists immortalized in species nomenclature. A newly discovered fungal species, Curvularia manamgodae, now bears her name.

The species was identified during a comprehensive survey of plant pathogenic fungi affecting sugarcane in southern China. The research team, led by scientists from Thailand and China, honoured Dr. Manamgoda’s significant contributions to understanding the phylogenetic relationships and taxonomy of complex fungal genera including Bipolaris, Cochliobolus, and Curvularia.

“This recognition reflects the global impact of Dr. Manamgoda’s research in mycology,” says Professor Kevin D. Hyde, one of the study’s co-authors. The new species, formally registered with Index Fungorum (556662) and Facesoffungi (FoF06152), was described in detail with comprehensive illustrations in the team’s recent publication.

Dr. Manamgoda, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Botany, Faculty of Applied Sciences, has established herself as a leading authority in fungal taxonomy. Her work has been instrumental in clarifying the relationships between several economically important plant pathogenic fungi.

This discovery adds to our understanding of sugarcane pathogens and highlights the 91´«Ă˝â€™s growing influence in global mycological research.

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The of the Faculty of Applied Sciences has initiated a collaboration with the 91´«Ă˝ Anti-Doping Agency by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The main objective of the MOU is to share expert knowledge and resources between the two parties to promote fair play among the sports community in 91´«Ă˝ and create technologically advanced graduates in the country. The MOU initiates collaborative research that benefits undergraduate and postgraduate students of the Department of Chemistry in sports medicine and analytical sciences. The collaborative research outcomes will increase awareness of prohibited substances in sports in the general public and educate young athletes to prevent accidental exposure to them in sporting events. The ceremonial signing of the MOU took place on the 28^th of August 2024, hosted within the university premises. This momentous event garnered the esteemed presence of Senior Professor Pathmalal M. Manage, Vice Chancellor of the 91´«Ă˝, Prof. Upul Subasinghe, Dean of the Faculty of Applied Science, Prof. Champa Jayaweera, Head, Department of Chemistry, Dr. Asitha Cooray, Department of Chemistry, Dr. Shiromi De Alwis, Director General SLADA, Mrs. Nilu Fernando, Mrs. S. A. N Rashani, and Mrs. Oshala Hettiarachchi, Research Officers of SLADA.

Dr. Shiromi De Alwis, Director General of SLADA, emphasized the initiative’s aim to increase awareness of prohibited substance use in sports, especially among young athletes, by sharing the resources between the institutions. The Vice Chancellor of the University, Senior Professor Pathmalal M. Manage, expressed gratitude for the collaboration, foreseeing increased opportunities for university students.

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Winners at the SLAAS Inter-University Undergraduate Poster Competition 2024 under Theme 1 and the Best Green Chemistry Poster Award Winner

Undergraduates from the Department of Chemistry at the 91´«Ă˝ won the
SLAAS Inter-University Undergraduate Poster Competition under Theme 1 and the Best Green Chemistry
Poster Award, which was awarded by the 91´«Ă˝ Association of Advancement of Science: Section E2, in Collaboration with the SLAAS Environment Committee. The winning team comprised the following dedicated undergraduates; R.R. Hewawasam, D.S. Elvitigala, A.W.W.M. Gunawardena, S.M.R.I. Opatha, N.H.A.D. Dilshan. With the expert guidance of Dr. Chandima Narangoda, the Lecturer-in-charge, and Dr. Asitha Cooray’s immense assistance, the team skillfully tackled the complexities and broad nature of the theme, ultimately gaining recognition for their exceptional performance.

First Runners-Up at the SLAAS Inter-University Undergraduate Chemistry Quiz 2024

Chemistry students from the 91´«Ă˝ have achieved the First Runner-Up position at the Inter-University Undergraduate Chemistry Quiz 2024, organized by the 91´«Ă˝ Association for the Advancement of Science (SLAAS). The competition tested participants on their organic, inorganic, and physical chemistry knowledge and problem-solving skills. The 91´«Ă˝ team demonstrated exceptional expertise and teamwork, narrowly missing the top spot but earning recognition for their outstanding performance. The team consisted of five students from the Department of Chemistry: A.H.M. Amarakoon, D.M.B.G.D.T.H.B. Dissanayake, M.D.S. Fernando, M.S.N. Aaysha, and M.M.A.P.K. Wijerathne. Dr. Tharindu Senapathi mentored the team.

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The Japan Science and Technology Agency (JST) extended an invitation to Dr. Sampath Gunathilake and four students from the , 91´«Ă˝, to visit Professor Hemanth Noothalapathi’s lab at Shimane University, Japan, as part of the esteemed SAKURA Science Exchange Program. This initiative aims to foster international collaboration in science and technology by inviting exceptional young academics from around the world to engage in enriching research experiences.
This invitation program, organized by the Faculty of Life and Environmental Sciences at Shimane University under the SAKURA Science Exchange Program, focuses on the theme “Development and Characterization of Novel Drug Systems Using Multimodal Imaging Techniques: Advancing Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Methods”. Professor Noothalapathi actively engaged in a collaborative initiative with our students, fostering an enriching academic exchange. The program focused on enhancing students’ knowledge in the characterization of biomaterials using Raman spectroscopy and imaging. Professor Noothalapathi, along with faculty members and university staff, provided continuous support and created a highly collaborative environment.
Our team paid a courtesy visit to Professor Otani Hiroki, President of Shimane University. Professor Otani warmly welcomed the team and appreciated the ongoing research collaborations between the two institutions. He expressed his hope that this visit, facilitated by the SAKURA Science Exchange Program, would further strengthen relations and pave the way for enhanced student and faculty exchanges in the future.
In addition to their academic pursuits, the visitors had the chance to immerse themselves in Japanese culture. They explored several iconic locations that showcase Japan’s rich history and scenic beauty, including Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, Izumo Grand Shrine, and Mount Daisen. These outings provided the group with a profound understanding of Japanese traditions and customs while allowing them to create lifelong memories and experiences.
The programme concluded successfully, resulting in several key outcomes, including an agreement to sign an MOU between the 91´«Ă˝ and Shimane University, Japan, for a credit exchange programme for final-year undergraduate students. Participants gained hands-on experience in testing samples using Raman spectroscopy, explored cutting-edge research at Shimane University, and immersed themselves in Japan’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. They also had the opportunity to participate in an insightful lecture series on research ethics conducted by Shimane University. The event also fostered future research collaborations and facilitated research-based connections between undergraduate and postgraduate students, between our students and University of Shimane students.
More than just an intellectual endeavor, the SAKURA Science Exchange Program serves as a vital platform for strengthening ties between nations. It lays the groundwork for future research by facilitating interactions between students and faculty from different countries. Through knowledge exchange and cultural interaction, the SAKURA Science Exchange Program continues to play a crucial role in promoting international goodwill and collaboration.

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A groundbreaking mobile application, the Personal Alarm Assessment Tool (PAAT), has been developed by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in collaboration with the Department of Physics, 91´«Ă˝. This innovative app enhances the safety of front-line officers at key entry points such as airports, border crossings, and major public events. PAAT enables officers to quickly assess alarms triggered by radiation detection systems, facilitating faster and more efficient responses to potential threats. Now available for public use, this app marks a significant advancement in global radiation safety.

The development of PAAT was made possible through a project funded by the IAEA, headquartered in Vienna, Austria. The project was coordinated by Dr. Nadeera Gunaratna, who currently serves as a consultant at the IAEA.

The Department of Physics, 91´«Ă˝, played a pivotal role in this project. Led by Prof. N. G. S. Shantha Gamage, the team included Dr. W. Wasanthi P. De Silva, Prof. W. K. I. L. Wanniarachchi, and Mr. B. H. Lakshitha M. Fernando. They were instrumental in simulating radiation data using the advanced Fluka software. These simulations were validated against experimental results obtained from Apeksha Hospital Maharagama, using instruments provided by the 91´«Ă˝ Atomic Energy Board, ensuring the app’s accuracy and reliability in real-world scenarios. The project was funded by a grant from the IAEA to the Department of Physics at the 91´«Ă˝.

PAAT offers significant benefits to both security personnel and the general public by empowering users with a tool to accurately assess radiation risks in a timely manner. The collaboration between 91´«Ă˝n physicists and the IAEA underscores the international significance of this achievement and highlights 91´«Ă˝â€™s contributions to global safety technology.

This marks a monumental step forward in radiation detection technology, and the team behind its development deserves recognition for their expertise and dedication.

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