Darshana L. WeerawarnePhysics · Research · Education

Darshana L. Weerawarne

About

Biography, education, research background and interdisciplinary interests.

Profile

I am Professor in Physics at the Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka.

My research connects fundamental physics with practical engineering challenges, especially flexible and hybrid electronics, low-cost fabrication, laser-assisted materials processing and instrumentation. Earlier work in nonlinear optics and ultrafast laser propagation continues to inform my approach to experimentally grounded problem-solving.

Alongside research and teaching, I contribute to university administration, academic quality assurance and the development of learning opportunities beyond conventional campus-based programmes. I also write Sinhala poetry, exploring themes that intersect with scientific curiosity.


Education and qualifications

PhD in Physics · 2017

Binghamton University, State University of New York, USA.

MS in Physics · 2014

Binghamton University, State University of New York, USA.

BSc (Hons) in Engineering Physics · 2010

University of Colombo, Sri Lanka.

Professional teaching development

Certificate in Teaching in Higher Education (2022); SEDA teaching portfolio accreditation (2023); Chartered Physicist (2019).


Research journey

2020–present · University of Colombo

Research and teaching focused on printed electronics, sensing and applied optics; development of experimental research capacity and collaborative projects.

2017–2019 · Binghamton University

Postdoctoral research in flexible and hybrid electronics, including fabrication, monitoring and electrical/mechanical reliability.

2013–2017 · Binghamton University

Doctoral research on ultrashort laser pulse propagation and nonlinear optical interactions.

2008–2012 · University of Colombo

Earlier work in lightning-related instrumentation, sustainable computing and smart-home electronics.