Blog

Professor Hemanth Noothalapati, a well-known researcher from Shimane University, Japan, visited the Department of Polymer Science on March 18, 2024, at the department’s invitation. His fields of interest include analytical chemistry, Raman spectroscopy, data analysis, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. During his visit, he delivered a talk on the scientific applications of Raman spectroscopy and engaged in knowledge-sharing sessions related to this field. In addition, he interacted with research presentations given by selected students from the Department of Polymer Science for their application to the Sakura Science Exchange Program at Shimane University.

Professor Hemanth also met with the Dean of the Faculty of Science to discuss potential research collaborations. Furthermore, he had the opportunity to meet with the Vice Chancellor of the university to explore opportunities for research collaboration between the two universities. These discussions proved fruitful, leading to successful outcomes.

In an effort to foster academic collaboration and explore new opportunities for polymer science graduates, Prof. Manit Nithitanakul, Associate Dean (Academic Affairs) of The Petroleum & Petrochemical College at Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok, Thailand, recently paid a visit to the Department of Polymer Science.

During his visit, Prof. Nithitanakul engaged in discussions with the Vice Chancellor of the university, the academic staff members and students of the Department of Polymer Science. The primary focus of the meeting was to explore potential collaborations that could enhance the academic and research endeavors of both institutions.

One significant outcome of the discussions was the exploration of postgraduate opportunities for graduates from the Department of Polymer Science at the Petroleum & Petrochemical College. Prof. Nithitanakul elaborated on the various programs and research initiatives available at Chulalongkorn University, aiming to provide polymer science graduates with a platform to further their education and research in a global academic setting.

Prof. Nithitanakul expressed enthusiasm about the prospect of a strengthened partnership between the Department of Polymer Science and the Petroleum & Petrochemical College. As both entities work towards fostering innovation and excellence in polymer science, this collaborative venture is poised to make a significant impact on the academic and research landscape of both institutions.

In a resounding testament to excellence, the Department of Polymer Science proudly celebrates the exceptional achievements of its talented students. Their unwavering dedication and innovative ideas highlight the department’s commitment to fostering brilliance and innovation in the realm of polymer science. We proudly present the remarkable accomplishments of these outstanding individuals whose groundbreaking work continues to push the frontiers of scientific exploration.

These extraordinary achievements underscore not only the exceptional capabilities of these students but also the Department of Polymer Science’s unwavering dedication to nurturing and empowering future leaders in the field. As students continue to chart new territories and contribute significantly to scientific knowledge in polymer science, their remarkable accomplishments bring pride to the Department of Polymer Science and reinforce its commitment to advancing the boundaries of scientific understanding in this dynamic field.

Two of our first-year students following the PST/CHE/PHY Combination, Thisal Vitharana and Rukshika Fernando have won the first place at an innovation competition organized by the European Union and Dilmah, held on 15th December 2023. The competition was named ‘Sustainable Climate Action Challenge 2023’. Our students invented a smart recycling bin that can identify plastics and segregate them into different compartments. They have given the name ‘EcoSort’ to their invention and it has obtained very good comments from the judges and audience.

Our students got only six weeks to prepare a ‘Prototype’ and to come up with a business plan for the product. Our two first year students have succeeded beyond expectations by lifting the name of Faculty of Applied Sciences, USJ to the top, competing with participants from other universities comprising final year students. Dr. Dhammika Weerathunga from the Department of Polymer Science and Mr. Dhanushka Dharmasiri from the Department of Physics mentored the students. Mr. M. Priyantha, Technical Officer at the Department of Physics helped them to realize the prototype.