Research At KIU
“KIU places research at the forefront of innovation, with a dedicated team of researchers committed to tackling pressing challenges and breaking barriers to unleash new possibilities. Our research excellence embodies the potential of young researchers at our institution, fostering collaborative efforts across multiple disciplines to better serve our communities and address society’s challenges.
Join us on a journey of discovery as we explore our research endeavors, passionate researchers, and the transformative impact of our work!”
OUR RESEARCH THEMES
HUMAN HEALTH
Empowering tomorrow's leaders to enhance human health and well-being.
BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS
Nurturing visionaries and innovators in the business and economics
BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES
Uncovering the mysteries of the biological world.
LANGUAGE AND LITERATURE
Unravelling the artistry of words and culture in a dynamic academic environment.
PSYCHOLOGY
Investigating the science of the human mind.
COMPUTER SCIENCE AND INFORMATICS
Fueling the digital revolution to shape the future of technology and innovation.
Why Research At KIU?
KIU’s vibrant research community promotes collaboration, innovation, and creative solutions to global challenges. We excel in various research strengths that set us apart as an esteemed institution dedicated to groundbreaking technological advancements:
State-of-the-Art laboratories
Well-equipped modern laboratories excel in various research areas.
Access to libraries and archives
Extensive libraries and valuable collections enhance our research capabilities.
Field research resources
Strong relationships with external organizations provide access to unique research sites.
Tech transfer and incubation centers
A network of industry and business connections supports technology transfer and innovation.
Funding opportunities
Affiliations with institutions and organizations provide research grants and funding opportunities.
Research workshops
Interactive workshops foster knowledge and collaboration among our researchers.
Explore Our Panel Of Researches
Meet the exceptional minds behind our groundbreaking research and discover the stories that define their passion for discovery and the profound impact they have on our institution and the world:
AKILA RANDIKA JAYAMAHA
CHIEF GROWTH OFFICER / DEAN OF THE FACULTY OF NURSING
- Ph.D. (reading) (University of Leicester, UK)
- MSc in Epidemiology (University of Peradeniya, SL),
- MSc in Nursing Education (KIU, SL),
- BSc. (Hons) in Nursing (University of Ruhuna, SL)
“Exploring the complexities within the healthcare sector, paving the way for impactful solutions in the pursuit of a prosperous nation”
CAROLINE ANASTASIA FERNANDO
TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER MANAGER / LECTURER
- BSc. (Hons) Medical Laboratory Sciences (General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University, SL)
- MPhil. (Reading) (University of Sri Jayewardenepura, SL)
“I strive to unlock the Genetic Code to break free from addiction and create a path to recovery”
ANTONETTE MELIZA FABIOLA FERNANDO
JUNIOR RESEARCH SCIENTIST
- MSc (Reading) (University of Kelaniya, SL),
- BSc. (Hons) Biotechnology (University of Northumbria, UK),
- Advanced Diploma in Pharmaceutical Sciences (PATHE Academy, SL)
“By investigating advanced technological interventions, I strive to gain insights into how my research reverberates and shapes our understanding of genetic intricacies”
I. TANIA DESHANI PERERA
RESEARCH ASSISTANT
- BSc. (Hons) Biomedical Science (KIU, SL)
“Exploring the neurobehavioral and toxicological dimensions of drug interactions through zebrafish, I aim to shed light on addiction pathways, contributing to groundbreaking research in substance use and behavioural science”
W. PIUMI PRABODHA WICKRAMARATHNA
RESEARCH ASSISTANT
- B.Sc. (Hons) in Applied Sciences (Genetics & Molecular Biology) (University of Sri Jayewardenepura, SL)
“Exploring and studying the environmental sciences and using sustainable methods to protect the environment are my lofty goals”
E. A. I. JAYAKODY
RESEARCH ASSISTANT
- BSc. (Hons) Animal Science and Fisheries (University of Peradeniya, SL)
“With a passion for sustainable agricultural practices and animal welfare, I strive to contribute to innovations that enhance both food security and the well-being of animals in a rapidly evolving world”
Explore the research impacts
led by our Faculty Deans
RESEARCH NEWS
Finding the link between personality and substance use
The study aimed to explore the relationship between personality traits and substance use among Advanced Level students in the Western Province of Sri Lanka. The research findings revealed that 36.5% of these students reported using substances, with a significant number of them initiating substance use at the age of 17. Specifically, 21.1% of participants used tobacco products, 27.3% consumed alcoholic beverages, and 11.8% used cannabis, all of which were prevalent in the Western Province.
In analyzing the results of the Big Five Personality Inventory, the study identified a statistically significant association between the personality trait of openness and substance use among Advanced Level students in the Western Province. These significant findings were presented through three abstracts published in the Saegis International Research Symposium 2023, the Young Scientists Conference on Multidisciplinary Research, and the upcoming International Conference of Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka. In conclusion, the study highlights that the period during Advanced Level education is particularly vulnerable to substance use initiation. Moreover, it underscores the dynamic influence of personality on the initiation and continuation of substance use. Recognizing the link between personality traits and substance use provides valuable insights for the development of prevention and intervention strategies. Tailored interventions that address an individual’s specific personality traits and motivations for substance use may prove more effective in mitigating substance abuse among this demographic.
Discover our newly developed rehabilitation program for termination of substance abuse
This research project, titled “Factors associated with relapses of substance use disorder after a residential rehabilitation program and development of best practice rehabilitation intervention for drug addiction,” addresses the significant societal problem of drug addiction and rehabilitation in Sri Lanka. Substance abuse, also known as substance use disorder (SUD), refers to the harmful use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol and illicit drugs. The research project involved three phases, focusing on assessing relapse rates
identifying contributing factors, and developing the “SECOND WIND” mobile and web application for ongoing aftercare support. This digital aftercare application has received official licensing under the National Dangerous Drugs Control Board (NDDCB) in Sri Lanka, responsible for drug abuse prevention and rehabilitation. The project has also disseminated its research findings through workshops and awareness initiatives, reaching various stakeholders, including experts, government officials, and the civilian community.
Key Research Findings