Ms Dinithi Sakalasuriya

I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences, earning a Second Class Upper Division and was selected for the Dean’s List in recognition of my strong academic performance. Due to this achievement, Prof. Nimanthi Jayathilaka and Prof. Kapila Seneviratne hired me as a Graduate Research Assistant in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Kelaniya.

While working as a research assistant on multiple projects spanning molecular biology, microbiology, biochemistry, and animal studies, I pursued my Master of Philosophy (MPhil) in Chemistry. During this period, I developed a novel method to distinguish used refined coconut oil from fresh refined coconut oil, addressing a major challenge in Sri Lanka where fraudulent vendors sell used refined oil as fresh to consumers. My method allows the authenticity of coconut oil to be determined within 40 minutes using only 30 µL of sample, providing a low-cost, efficient approach without requiring sophisticated instruments. The method has been submitted for patent application, and a simple test kit was developed for commercialization purposes.

Throughout my journey as a research assistant, I actively participated in multidisciplinary research projects, contributing to 10 abstracts and two full papers currently under journal review. Over more than five years of research experience in chemistry, I have specialized in areas including natural products, antioxidants, lipid oxidation, enzymatic reactions, animal handling, computational chemistry, and battery chemistry and technology.

My technical expertise spans a wide range of laboratory techniques and analytical methods, including PCR, DNA extraction, microbiology, enzymology, and various spectrophotometric analyses. I have developed advanced proficiency in chromatography techniques such as TLC, HPLC, GC, and IC, as well as in the use of Rancimat for oxidative stability studies. In the field of energy storage, I have hands-on experience with battery chemistry, including understanding electrochemical reactions, evaluating performance parameters, and exploring materials and technologies for energy storage applications.

In addition to my technical skills, I have substantial experience in chemical handling, procurement, and selecting appropriate chemicals to align with research methodologies. My roles at the University of Kelaniya have also allowed me to mentor students, support practical lab work, collaborate with leading researchers, and contribute to multidisciplinary projects that drive meaningful scientific discoveries. I am passionate about applying my knowledge and skills to advance both fundamental research and applied technology in the fields of chemistry and energy storage.