The Department of Zoology is pleased to announce the appointment of Senior Professor Dinithi Peiris as the new Head of the Department of Zoology. The Department of Zoology warmly welcomes Snr. Prof. Dinithi Peiris to her new role and looks forward to her leadership in guiding the department toward continued academic excellence and growth.
Snr. Prof. Dinithi Peiris assumes duties following the completion of the three-year tenure of Prof. Kamal Ranatunga, who served the department with dedication and leadership. Your commitment, wisdom, and guidance have greatly contributed to the growth and strength of the department. The department extends its sincere appreciation and gratitude to Prof. Kaml Ranatunga for his valuable leadership and contributions during his tenure.
As a senior academic with extensive experience in teaching, research, and academic administration, Snr. Prof. Dinithi Peiris is expected to guide the department toward further academic excellence, research advancement and new heights.
Dr. Varuni Gunathilake, Senior Lecturer in Zoology at the University of Sri Jayewardenepura,
also the President of the Sri Lanka Association of Laboratory Animal Science (SLALAS) has
been honored with the Youth Progress Award 2025, jointly presented by the Asia Federation of
Laboratory Animal Science Associations (AFLAS) and the International Council for Laboratory
Animal Science (ICLAS). This prestigious international recognition celebrates Dr. Gunathilake’s
outstanding contributions and commitment to the advancement of laboratory animal science,
ethical research practices, and capacity building in Sri Lanka. Her leadership in promoting
responsible animal-based research, scientific innovation, and education has significantly
strengthened the field at both national and regional levels. This award stands as a well-deserved
recognition of her dedicated service in Sri Lanka and impactful contributions at the international
level.
Zoologists’ Association of University of Sri Jayewardenepura had the opportunity to be engaged in the Amphibian Conservation Workshop was organized by the HerpLab of University of Sri Jayewardenepura and funded by the Ocean Park Conservation Foundation, which was held on 26th and 27th of August,2025 at the Sinharaja World heritage rainforest.
Participants had the opportunity to experience the combination of field exploration, hands-on learning, and meaningful discussions on the conservation of Sri Lanka’s remarkable amphibian diversity. From identifying species in their natural habitats to engaging in insightful sessions on research and conservation strategies, every moment enriched our understanding of these vital yet vulnerable creatures.
A special appreciation is dedicated to Prof. Ranathunga, Dr. Nayana Wijayathilaka, Dr. Kelum Manamendra Arachchi, Dr. Sonali Premarathne, Miss. Helani Samarasinghe, Mr. Himasha Adhikari, Mr. Champika Bandara, Miss. Ishini Hapuarachchi and Miss. Dinithi Tharuka for their invaluable guidance, knowledge sharing, and inspiration throughout the program.
