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Dr. C L Ranatunga (Lal Ranatunga as many of us know) has been graduated, and obtained his BSc (special) in Physics, from the Department of Physics, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, in 1983.

After graduation, he worked in the ceramic industry for a few years, and then joined the Department of Physics, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, as an Assistant Lecturer, in May 1990. Starting from the level of Assistant Lecturer, he gradually excelled himself and his qualifications to build up his career as an academic staff member and got promoted up to the Senior Lecturer (I) level. In this path of building his career, he accomplished his postgraduate degree (MPhil.), from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, under the guidance of Prof. P. C. B. Fernando. For his doctoral degree, he produced the thesis titled “An experimental investigation on minimizing the damage inflicted on tomatoes due to post-harvest handling and transport vibrations”. He obtained his PhD in Physics, from the University of Colombo.

As an academic staff member of the Department of Physics, he taught many undergraduate courses, including, Industrial Physics, Nuclear Physics, Modern Physics, Physical Optics are few of them. Additionally, he served as the Senior Treasurer of the Physics Society, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, for several terms.

In addition to academic-related activities, he undertook many community service activities, such as the few listed below.

• President of Vidujaya Science Teachers Association (VSTA) (2011/2012)
• Assistant Secretary of the Institute of Physics Sri Lanka (IPSL)
• Fellow member of the Institute of Physics Sri Lanka (IPSL)
• Secretary of the Section E1, Sri Lanka Association for Advancement of Science (SLAAS)
• Setter Panel member of the Advanced Level (A/L)” Science for Technology “examination question paper.
• Senior Consultant for the Faculty of Technology, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka.

After a long 31 years of service, at the age of 65, Dr. Ranatunga retired from this academic service to the Department of Physics, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, in May 2021.

On this day of his eternal rest, the 18th Jan. 2024, all his colleagues and past students are recollecting his energetic life and the attractive teaching style.

May he attain the supreme bliss of Nibbana !!!!

Department of Physics, University of Sri Jayewardenepura

Chamini Shammi Pathiraja is currently a fifth-year graduate student pursuing her Ph.D. in Physics at the University of Houston in Texas, USA. She previously completed her undergraduate studies at the University of Sri Jayawardenepura from 2014 to 2017, achieving a first-class degree in Physics. Notably, she received the Prof. P.C.B. Fernando Gold Medal for her outstanding academic performance.

During her fourth year as an undergraduate student, Chamini had the opportunity to participate in the CERN undergraduate summer program, marking a significant milestone in her academic journey. Following her successful completion of her bachelor’s degree with honors, she embarked on her Ph.D. studies at the University of Houston in 2019.

Chamini’s research focuses on “Spectroscopy Studies of the Electronic Structure in Two-dimensional Magnetic Materials Chromium Trihalides CrX3 (X= Cl, Br, and I).” Her dedication to advancing scientific knowledge led her to participate in the graduate internship program at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.

Beyond her academic pursuits, Chamini has undertaken research experiments at various synchrotron radiation facilities worldwide. Her global research experiences have broadened her perspective, allowing her to contribute valuable insights to the field of physics.

Recently, Chamini had the honor of being a guest speaker, delivering a compelling research talk. Her accomplishments, both in academia and in international research collaborations, underscore her commitment to advancing the frontiers of physics.

In a landmark event that brought together the brightest minds in electronic and embedded systems, the University of Sri Jayewardenepura hosted the first Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Electronic and Embedded Society on December 7, 2023. The Physics Lecture Theatre set the stage for an evening filled with insightful discussions, exciting announcements, and future outlooks.

Distinguished figures such as Prof. N. G. S. S. Gamage, the Head of the Department, and Dr. A.R. Kumarasinghe, our esteemed patron, graced the occasion, adding an air of significance to the proceedings. The AGM served as a platform to discuss prospects and introduce the newly appointed committee that will steer society towards greater heights.

One of the notable highlights of the evening was the warm welcome extended to Dr. Indika Wanniarachchi, who assumed the role of the society’s senior treasurer. His appointment marks a promising transition, and the society eagerly anticipates his valuable contributions to financial leadership.

The newly appointed committee was introduced amid an atmosphere of excitement and enthusiasm. Members were encouraged to embrace their roles and work collaboratively towards fostering curiosity, engagement, and camaraderie within the Electronic and Embedded community at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura.

Beyond the formalities of the AGM, the society took a moment to reaffirm its core objectives. The Electronic and Embedded Society remains dedicated to promoting excellence in electronic and embedded systems. This commitment translates into fostering a collaborative learning environment, organizing workshops and seminars to enhance technical skills, and providing a platform for innovative projects and research.

As the society embarks on this new chapter, it is poised to continue contributing significantly to the academic atmosphere of the university. The AGM catalyzed inspiring growth, making lasting contributions to the field, and leading the Electronic and Embedded Society to greater accomplishments.

The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Physics Society at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, held on November 16, 2023, was a momentous occasion graced by the presence of our esteemed patron, Dr. A.R. Kumarasinghe, and the Head of the Department (HoD), Prof. N. G. S. Gamage. The event unfolded within the walls of the Physics Lecture Theatre, providing a fitting backdrop for discussions on society’s achievements and future prospects.

The Physics Society extends sincere gratitude to Dr. Wasanthi De Silva, the outgoing senior treasurer, for her dedicated service and contributions to the society. As we bid farewell to her, we warmly welcome Prof. Duleepa Pitigala as the new senior treasurer. His appointment marks a promising transition, and we anticipate his valuable contributions to society’s financial leadership.

To the newly appointed committee, may this chapter be one of inspiration and unity. Led by Prof. Duleepa Pitigala, we have full confidence in your ability to guide the society with diligence and innovation. May your collaborative efforts foster curiosity, engagement, and camaraderie within the physics community at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura. As you assume your roles, may you encounter exciting opportunities for growth, make lasting contributions to the academic atmosphere, and lead the Physics Society to greater heights. Best wishes for a successful and fulfilling tenure ahead!