| University of Colombo | SRI LANKA
Prof. Chandana Jayaratne is a distinguished Sri Lankan physicist and academic affiliated with the University of Colombo. He served as the Head of the Department of Physics (2020–2025) and is the Founder and Director of the Astronomy and Space Science Unit, continuing as an advisor after March 2026. His academic contributions span atmospheric physics, lightning physics, astronomy, and space science, with a strong emphasis on postgraduate education and research capacity building.
Leadership & Administrative Roles
Prof. Jayaratne has held several prominent leadership positions, including:
- Chairman of the Arthur C Clarke Institute for Modern Technologies (2022–2024; 2025–present)
- Chairman, Indo-Lanka Research Projects Evaluation Committee, Ministry of Science & Technology (Sri Lanka)
- Director, Colombo Science and Technology Cell
- Director, Student Affairs & Senior Student Counsellor, University of Colombo (1999–2003)
- General President (2018) of the Sri Lanka Association for the Advancement of Science
He has also contributed as a council member to multiple national scientific bodies including NRC, SLSI, NIE, and ACCIMT.
Research Contributions & Grants
Prof. Jayaratne has led and secured numerous national and international research grants focusing on atmospheric science, geomagnetism, astronomy, space science instrumentation, and STEM education. Key initiatives include:
- Establishment of Sri Lanka’s first MSc program in Atmospheric Physics and Dynamical Meteorology
- Has produced nearly 30 PhD, MPhil and MSc postgraduate students supervised by him
- Development of geomagnetic and astronomical observation infrastructure
- Leadership in interdisciplinary projects such as the COVID-19 tracking app “SWARAKSHA”
His grant portfolio spans funding from organizations such as the International Programme on Physical Sciences (Sweden), ADB, NRC, and NSF, totaling several million rupees in research investments.
Publications & Innovations
- Journal Publications: 200+ peer-reviewed articles
- Patents: 4
- Editor-in-Chief of the Journal of SLAAS
His research has significantly advanced knowledge in atmospheric electricity, lightning protection, and space science applications in South Asia.
Scientific Engagement & Outreach
Prof. Jayaratne has played a pivotal role in nurturing young scientific talent:
- National Coordinator – Sri Lankan Olympiads on Astronomy and Astrophysics
- Country Coordinator & Board Member – International Olympiads (IOAA & IAO)
- Chairman of the SLAAS All-Island School Inventors Competition (2007–2025)
His efforts have strengthened science education, innovation culture, and international scientific collaboration.
Honours & Awards
- Recipient of the National Apex Award (2022) – a lifetime recognition for excellence in science and technology
- Over 41 national and international awards recognizing research, leadership, and educational impact
Eligibility for Iconic Scientist Award
Prof. Chandana Jayaratne is eminently eligible for the Iconic Scientist Award (Scientific Laurels) in recognition of his outstanding and sustained contributions to science, education, and national development. With over 200 peer-reviewed publications, multiple patents, and decades of pioneering work in atmospheric physics, lightning research, astronomy and space science, he has demonstrated exceptional research excellence and innovation. His leadership roles at the University of Colombo and as Chairman of the Arthur C Clarke Institute for Modern Technologies reflect his significant influence in advancing scientific institutions and policy. Furthermore, his commitment to capacity building—through establishing postgraduate programs, leading national and international astronomy Olympiads, popularising science and promoting STEM education—highlights his dedication to nurturing future generations of scientists. His numerous accolades, including the National Apex Award, underscore a lifetime of impactful achievements, making him a highly deserving recipient of the Iconic Scientist Award.