New postgraduate programs Offered through the Department of Chemistry, USJ

New Admissions for 2025

Applications are invited for the Master of Science in Industrial Organic Chemistry (MSc Indus Org Chem, SLQF 10) / Master of Industrial Organic Chemistry (MIndusOrgChem, SLQF 9) / Postgraduate Diploma in Industrial Organic Chemistry (PGDip Indus Org Chem, SLQF 8) offered by the Department of Chemistry, USJ. These new postgraduate programs have been designed to provide necessary scientific knowledge and practical skills in the fields of organic chemistry / industrial organic chemistry for graduates / government / industrial employees who are engaged in, or seeking career opportunities in industries, academic institutes, research institutes and scientific services in both government and private sectors. The MSc in Industrial Organic Chemistry Degree consists of 25 credits of coursework, 4 credits of practical classes, industrial visits, seminars, workshops and case studies. In addition, this program provides an opportunity to carry out one-year full-time industrial-related research (30 credits) at national as well as international levels. The Master of Industrial Organic Chemistry is a one-year degree program without a research component. The Postgraduate Diploma consists of 25 credits of coursework, 4 credits of practical classes, industrial visits and seminars.

Minimum Admission Requirements:

To be eligible for admission to this program an applicant must possess one of the following qualifications;

• BSc Special or Honours degree (SLQF 6) in Chemistry
• BSc General Degree (SLQF 5) with Chemistry as a subject
• BSc Special or Honours Degree (SLQF 6) with Chemistry as a subject
• BSc Degree (SLQF 5 or 6) in Chemical Engineering / Food Science or Agriculture / Pharmacy and Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT) with Chemistry as a subject / relevant subject area
• BSc Honours in Fisheries and Marine Sciences or Marine and Freshwater Sciences (SLQF 6) with Chemistry as a subject / relevant subject area
• Equivalent qualification recognized by the University Grants Commission
• Equivalent qualification accepted by the University Senate, 91´«Ă˝

For More Details:

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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.

The post Department of Chemistry, USJ Shines at SLAAS Inter-University Undergraduate Poster & Quiz Competition 2024 appeared first on USJ - 91´«Ă˝.

Offered through the Department of Chemistry, USJ

New Admissions for 2024

Chemical analysis plays a vital role in all aspects of life. There is an increasing demand for qualified analytical chemists throughout the world. The MSc/PG Diploma program in Industrial Analytical Chemistry introduces analytical chemistry skills that are required in different industrial disciplines including chemical, pharmaceutical, bio-analytical, forensic, food and environmental monitoring applications.

The practice of analytical chemistry has now become an integral and essential component in many diverse spheres such as Food and Beverage industry, Pharmaceutical industry, Health care and medical technology, Environmental control, Electrochemical technology, Agriculture, etc. Many of the underlying principles of Analytical Chemistry can be seen routinely in analysis in many areas such as quality control, research and development work, manufacturing processes, and in industry, university, and other research laboratories.

The objective of the M.Sc./Diploma program in Industrial Analytical Chemistry is to deliver the analytical chemistry skills involved in different industrial disciplines for young graduates as well as for working professionals.

The program comprises a broad range of modules covering all the major analytical techniques, complemented by studies in transferable and professional skills, with the option to study aspects of medicinal and pharmaceutical chemistry if desired.

Study areas include research methods, separation techniques, mass spectrometry and associated techniques, spectroscopy and structural analysis, sensors, pharmacokinetics and drug metabolism, drug targets, drug design and drug synthesis and innovations in analytical science.

For More Details:

The post MSc /PG Diploma in Industrial Analytical Chemistry – 2024 appeared first on USJ - 91´«Ă˝.

91´«Ă˝ participated at the Annual Inter University Debate Competition organized by the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon (IChemC), on the 27^th of April 2024, and were awarded first runner-up at the Awards Ceremony held on 21^st of June 2024 at Marino Beach Hotel Colombo.

Eight students from the Department of Chemistry participated in the competition: Minduli Perera, Devin Dharmarathne, Avishka Thathsara, Darshitha Dilshan, Keshala Gunarathna, Hashma Imnisar, Wehara Gunawardena and Aaysha Sufran.

The competition was conducted according to the league method, where each team debated with all other teams. The team from College of Chemical Sciences won the competition, while the University of Colombo emerged third. The team from the 91´«Ă˝ thanked their Lecturer in Charge, Prof. Theshini Perera for her unwavering guidance and support extended throughout the course of the practice sessions. They acknowledged the encouragement they received from the Head of the Department of Chemistry, Prof. Champa Jayaweera and the other lecturers of the department. They also expressed their immense gratitude to their past debating captains, Lasni Nishshanke, Manesha Fernando and Govini Perera for their valuable input during their practice sessions  as well as to Hirusha Liyanage.

The team also appreciated Dr. Kushan Weerasiri, Chairperson of the Inter- University Debating Committee and the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon for providing them with an opportunity to showcase their skills and engage in intellectual discussions as young scientists.

The post Chemistry Debaters of USJ Placed 1st Runner-Up at the Inter-University Chemistry Debate Competition 2024 appeared first on USJ - 91´«Ă˝.

New postgraduate programs Offered through the Department of Chemistry, USJ

New Admissions for 2024

Applications are invited for the Master of Science in Industrial Organic Chemistry (MSc Indus Org Chem, SLQF 10) / Master of Industrial Organic Chemistry (MIndusOrgChem, SLQF 9) / Postgraduate Diploma in Industrial Organic Chemistry (PGDip Indus Org Chem, SLQF 8) offered by the Department of Chemistry, USJ. These new postgraduate programs have been designed to provide necessary scientific knowledge and practical skills in the fields of organic chemistry / industrial organic chemistry for graduates / government / industrial employees who are engaged in, or seeking career opportunities in industries, academic institutes, research institutes and scientific services in both government and private sectors. The MSc in Industrial Organic Chemistry Degree consists of 25 credits of coursework, 4 credits of practical classes, industrial visits, seminars, workshops and case studies. In addition, this program provides an opportunity to carry out one-year full-time industrial-related research (30 credits) at national as well as international levels. The Master of Industrial Organic Chemistry is a one-year degree program without a research component. The Postgraduate Diploma consists of 25 credits of coursework, 4 credits of practical classes, industrial visits and seminars.

Minimum Admission Requirements:

To be eligible for admission to this program an applicant must possess one of the following qualifications;

• BSc Special or Honours degree (SLQF 6) in Chemistry
• BSc General Degree (SLQF 5) with Chemistry as a subject
• BSc Special or Honours Degree (SLQF 6) with Chemistry as a subject
• BSc Degree (SLQF 5 or 6) in Chemical Engineering / Food Science or Agriculture / Pharmacy and Medical Laboratory Technology (MLT) with Chemistry as a subject / relevant subject area
• BSc Honours in Fisheries and Marine Sciences or Marine and Freshwater Sciences (SLQF 6) with Chemistry as a subject / relevant subject area
• Equivalent qualification recognized by the University Grants Commission
• Equivalent qualification accepted by the University Senate, 91´«Ă˝

Library subscription Rs. 5,000.00
Library deposit Rs. 5,000.00 (refundable)
Registration fee Rs 5,000.00
Laboratory deposit Rs. 5,000.00 (refundable)
Examination fee Rs 1,500.00
(Course fee can be paid in two installments, 60% of the course fee at the registration and the balance within 6 months of the 1st year.)

In addition, following fee should be payable at the time of registration.

Application fee           Rs 2,000.00
Library subscription   Rs. 5,000.00
Registration fee          Rs. 5,000.00
Library deposit           Rs. 5,000.00 (refundable)
Examination fee         Rs 1,500.00
Laboratory deposit     Rs. 5,000.00 (refundable)

Course fee can be paid in two installments, 60% of the course fee at the registration and the balance within 6 months of the 1st year.

Application Closing Date: 10^th January 2023

(Inauguration will be held on January 2024)

How to apply?

1. Click on the “Apply Now” button below or go to “” page.
2. Select the Course “PGD/Master/MSc in Industrial Analytical Chemistry” and login with your email & NIC/passport number
3. Enter your details and click on Submit.
4. You will see “You have successfully submitted your Application” on a new web page. DownloadĚýłŮłó±đĚýapplication & Bank pay slip from this page.
   You can pay the application fee online via Visa or Master Card in LKR from this page by clicking the Ěýľ±ł¦´Ç˛Ô.
5. You can pay the application fee of Rs. 2,000/- online only at this stage. If not, you have to visit to a People’s bank physically and pay the application fee of Rs. 2,000/-to the following account

Account Holder: 91´«Ă˝
Bank & Branch: Peoples Bank, Gangodawila branch

• If the bank officer informed you that this account number is incorrect, please ask the officer to contact People’s bank, Gangodawila branch.
• People’s bank account contains 15 digits normally. But in this account contains only 12 digits. So, you cannot use Cash Deposit Machines or bank applications to pay.

6. Login again by repeating the above 1^st & 2^nd steps again.
7. Click on the “N±đłćłŮ” Button at the bottom. (If necessary, you are allowed to edit your details)
8. You need to upload the following documents
   • Color Photograph (3.0cm width x 4.0cm height with plain sky-blue background) – .jpgĚý´Ç°ůĚý.pngĚý´Úľ±±ô±đ
   • Scanned copy of Birth Certificate – .pdfĚý´Úľ±±ô±đ
   • Bank payment receipt or Online payment receipt- .pdfĚý´Úľ±±ô±đ
   • Scanned copies of Academic Certificates (First Degree & Masters/MPhil) – .pdfĚý´Úľ±±ô±đs
   • Scanned copy/ies of Professional Qualifications Certificate/s- .pdfĚý´Úľ±±ô±đs
   • Scanned copy/ies of Other Qualifications Certificate/s – .pdfĚý´Úľ±±ô±đ/s
   • Service letter – .pdfĚý´Úľ±±ô±đ

** no need to upload any Research Proposal / Concept paper

9. Send the downloaded application (from 4^th step above) to sachintha@sjp.ac.lk with scanned copies of Degree Certificate, Transcript, Birth Certificate, Passport size Colour photograph and payment receipt.
   Please write “Industrial Organic Chemistry – 2024” in the subject field of the email.
10. Post the printed application (from 4^th step above) along with the certified documents included in the above 8^th step through a registered post to Assistant Registrar, Faculty of Graduate Studies, 91´«Ă˝, Gangodawila, Nugegoda.
    Write “Industrial Organic Chemistry – 2024” on the top left-hand corner of the envelope.

For further details, please contact:

Dr. Upul Kumarasinghe
Course Coordinator, PG programs in Industrial Organic Chemistry
Department of Chemistry
Faculty of Applied Sciences
91´«Ă˝
Gangodawila
Nugegoda

Phone: +94 71 018 7984 | E-mail: upulk@sjp.ac.lk

Contact Faculty of Graduate Studies
Mrs. Sachintha Ranathunga: 011 288 1557 | sachintha@sjp.ac.lk

Registrar, 91´«Ă˝

The post Industrial Organic Chemistry – 2024 appeared first on USJ - 91´«Ă˝.

Mr. Damith D. Lekamge, a student of the , 91´«Ă˝, received the Prof M. U. S. Sultanbawa Award for Research in Chemistry – 2022. This esteemed award, presented by the Institute of Chemistry Ceylon (IChemC), recognizes his exceptional and significant contribution to the fields of Science, Chemistry, Education, and Research in 91´«Ă˝. The award was granted for his research paper titled “Synthesis and characterization of inclusion complexes of Ageratum conyzoides L. essential oil in β-cyclodextrin,” which was presented at the 51st Annual Sessions of IChemC.

Under the guidance of Dr. Isurika Fernando, Senior Lecturer in the Department of Chemistry, 91´«Ă˝, Mr. Lekamge conducted a research project that focused on the synthesis and characterization of inclusion complexes of Ageratum conyzoides L. essential oil in β-cyclodextrin. The objective was to explore the potential applications of these complexes.

The prestigious award was presented to Mr. Lekamge at the Inaugural Ceremony of the 52nd Annual Sessions of IChemC, held on June 14, 2023, at the 91´«Ă˝ Foundation Institute (SLFI).

The post Recognizing Excellence: Mr. Damith D. Lekamge Honored with Prof. M. U. S. Sultanbawa Award for Research in Chemistry – 2022 appeared first on USJ - 91´«Ă˝.

Dr. Imalka Munaweera, from the Department of Chemistry at Faculty of Applied Sciences USJ, has been listed in the “Asian Scientist 100 (2023 edition)” of the Asian Scientist Magazine’s eighth iteration which highlights her exceptional groundbreaking scientific advancements in the field.

The “Asian Scientist 100” list features outstanding individuals from various countries, including Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, Hong Kong SAR, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Pakistan, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, 91´«Ă˝, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam representing a wide range of fields from the modern number theory to mental health.

Dr. Imalka’s remarkable work was honored with the prestigious 2021 OWSD-Elsevier Foundation Award for Early-Career Women Scientists in the Developing World. Her significant research contributions include the fabrication of diverse functionalized materials, nanoparticles, and nanocomposites, with applications ranging from drug delivery to water filtration and the reduction of post-harvest losses in fruits and vegetables.

The USJ web team and the entire university community extend heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Imalka Munaweera for her exceptional achievement and wish her continued success in her future endeavors.

The post Dr. Imalka Munaweera of Department of Chemistry, USJ Listed in Asian Scientist 100 (2023 edition) for Scientific Excellence appeared first on USJ - 91´«Ă˝.

New undergraduate research laboratory opened for undergrads of Faculty of Applied Sciences who are studying in Department of Chemistry to enhance the research scope in undergrads of the 91´«Ă˝.

The opening ceremony of the new undergraduate research laboratory took place on Friday, the 16^th of December, 2022, with the presence of Senior Prof. Sudantha Liyanage, the Vice-Chancellor of the 91´«Ă˝. With the inception of this project by Prof. Nilwala Kottegoda, the former Head of the Department of Chemistry, followed by the unwavering support from the Vice-Chancellor, the New Undergraduate Research Laboratory became a reality that can undoubtedly enhance the undergraduate research experience. The lab has a student capacity of 50 and is to cater to the undergraduate research students of the Department of Chemistry. The project coordinator, Dr. Chandima Narangoda, drove this project towards success with diligence.

The opening ceremony was presided over by Prof. Upul Subasinghe, Dean of the Faculty of Applied Sciences, Prof. Pradeep Jayaweera, Dean of the Faculty of Aquatic and Bioresources, Prof. Champa Jayaweera, Head of the Department of Chemistry, Mrs. Yashoba Abeysinghe, Assistant Registrar, Mrs. Uthpala Dissanayaka, Assistant Bursar, Mr. Asanka Karunaratne, Works Engineer, academic members of the Department of Chemistry, its non-academic staff, demonstrators and the students.

Some of the Alumni members of the Department of Chemistry funded and fundraised for this project with financial assistance and the Head of the Department of Chemistry guided this project towards succession. The Chemical Society of the Department of Chemistry assisted in organizing the opening ceremony of this new undergraduate research laboratory.

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