Dynamic and results-driven professional with extensive experience as a Graduate Research Assistant at the University of Connecticut. Proficient in remote sensing techniques and data analysis using R, I excel in integrating advanced instrumentation skills to enhance research outcomes. Passionate about fostering collaboration and delivering impactful presentations in academic settings. Dedicated to skill development and bringing value to dynamic teams.
Overview
3
3
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Graduate Research Assistant
University of Connecticut
Storrs, Connecticut
01.2025 - Current
Performed spatial analysis, cartography, and remote sensing techniques to solve complex problems.
Analyzed aerial photographs and other remote sensing data to create land cover maps.
Analyzed geospatial data collected from remote sensing satellites to identify areas of interest.
Managed or analyzed data obtained from remote sensing systems to assess results.
Processed remote sensing images for classification purposes.
Integrated remote sensing technology into existing GIS systems for enhanced analysis capabilities.
Analyzed data from remote sensing devices such as aerial photographs and satellite imagery.
Analyzed data gathered through remote sensing systems such as satellites or drones to detect changes in land use or surface coverings over time.
Integrated remote sensing data into existing GIS systems.
Utilized remote sensing technologies like LiDAR to generate detailed 3D representations of terrain surfaces.
Researched new technologies for use in geologic studies such as GIS applications and remote sensing techniques.
Analyzed data from remote sensing systems to identify areas of concern.
Interpreted aerial photographs, satellite images and other remote sensing data for use in GIS projects.
Provided technical support when needed during online meetings or teleconferences involving remote participants.
Facilitated virtual meetings between remote workers and office staff.Prepared materials and presentations for academic meetings.
Analyzed research data using statistical software and presented findings to team members.
Prepared reports, presentations, and articles using Microsoft Word and PowerPoint.
Conducted literature reviews and synthesized research findings in preparation for data analysis.
Organized, managed, and maintained databases for research projects.
Gathered, reviewed and summarized literature from scientific journals.
Performed laboratory tests, sample collections, and other technical tasks related to research studies.
Educated undergraduate students on laboratory protocols and activities.
Prepared and presented reports on research progress to faculty members.
Participated in weekly lab meetings to discuss ongoing work within the lab group setting.
Interpreted results from experiments or surveys and identified potential implications for further study or applications in practice.
Utilized statistical software for data analysis and interpretation (R).
Assisted with execution of data collection, specimen handling and field research.
Managed laboratory teams and delegated tasks to complete experiments.
Volunteer Research Assistant
Joint Research and Demonstration Center
Kandy, Sri Lanka
03.2023 - 12.2025
Assisted researchers with data collection and analysis for ongoing projects.
STUDY ON LEACHING OF MANGANESE INTO GROUNDWATER
Assisted on Preparation of Column experiments with soil sample from Aluth Wawe area of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka.
Analysed the samples using LFS-2002(Mn) Manganese water quality analyzer
was used to colorimetrically test the manganese content of water samples (LIHERO, Hunan).
Applicability of EDR Water Treatment Technology to CKDu Prevalence Areas in Sri Lanka
Assisted Sample collection from Padaviya, Madawachchiya Areas of Sri Lanka
Preparation of Synthetic Water for comparison between field samples
conducted the analysis of F - , Cl - , SO 4 2- , Br - , PO 4 3- -, NO 3- ; from Ion Chromatograph (CIC-
D100 Ion Chromatograph) at Joint Research and Demonstration Center for Water Technology, Sri
Lanka.
Hardness was measured followed by APHA, 2340-C, 23 rd edition standard test method and
Alkalinity is measured followed by APHA 2320-B, 23 rd editionstandard test method. pH was measured
followed by APHA 4500-H + B standard method, Electric Conductivity (EC) by APHA 2510A
Standard method, Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) by APHA 2540 C standard method and Turbidity by
APHA 2130 B standard testing method.
Sample analysis using Advanced Chemical Instruments
Contributing to the preparation of research papers, reports, and presentations
A COMPREHENSIVE STUDY ON APPLICABILITY AND OPTIMIZING ED DOMESTIC TREATMENT PLANTS FOR GROUNDWATER REVITALIZATION IN THE CKDu-AFFECTED DRY ZONE OF SRI LANKA
The 14th International Conference on Sustainable Built Environment -2023
ISO /IEC 17025: 2017 Document preparation
Conducting Laboratory Demonstration sessions
Training and supervising undergraduate / junior researchers, as well as assisting with their development within the research environment
Graduate Student Technician
University of Connecticut
Storrs, Connecticut
05.2025 - 08.2025
Assisted in troubleshooting technical issues for faculty and students.
Trained new students on basic equipment usage and safety protocols.
Developed user documentation regarding system operations, maintenance procedures, and protocols.
Provided technical assistance to students with inquiries related to their Georeferencing Procedure.
Maintained positive working relationship with fellow staff and management.
Assisted in daily administrative tasks to support team operations.
Organized project files and maintained accurate documentation for easy access.
Utilized document management system to organize company files, keeping up-to-date and easily accessible data.
Assistant Lecturer
Uva Wellassa University
Badulla, Sri Lanka
12.2023 - 12.2024
Assisted faculty in organizing academic events and workshops.
Coordinated scheduling and logistics for university meetings and appointments.
Managed communications between departments and external stakeholders.
Maintained accurate records for administrative processes and documentation.
Prepared materials for presentations and classroom activities as needed.
Conducted research to assist in developing course content and resources.
Assisted in preparing and delivering engaging lectures for diverse student groups.
Developed instructional materials to enhance student learning and course comprehension.
Coordinated classroom activities and facilitated discussions among students.
Supported students during office hours, addressing questions and providing guidance.
Collaborated with faculty on curriculum development and course assessments.
Administered exams and evaluated student performance consistently and fairly.
Participated in departmental meetings to discuss academic policies and initiatives.
Maintained accurate records of student attendance and performance.
Designed and implemented assessment strategies such as quizzes, exams and assignments to evaluate student progress.
Prepared lecture notes, handouts and supplemental materials for courses.
Participated in preparation, administration and grading of exams.
Collaborated with faculty members in developing course content and curriculum design.
Encouraged students' personal development through tutorial work.
Researched new teaching methods to enhance learning outcomes in the classroom setting.
Provided feedback on student work in a timely manner.
Assisted in organizing events such as seminars or colloquia related to course topics.
Attended departmental and faculty seminars, improving knowledge, and networking with confidence.
Advised undergraduate students about potential career paths within the field of study.
Organized tutorials for students to discuss topics related to the course material.
Assisted with lecture planning, preparation and research.
Developed and delivered lectures on research methodology, scientific writing and literature review to undergraduate students.
Coached students on preparing presentations for conferences or symposiums.
Provided guidance to graduate students working on their dissertations or thesis papers.
Fostered a positive and inclusive classroom environment, promoting respect, collaboration, and engagement among students.
Conducted regular assessment of student performance through assignments, tests, and examinations to monitor progress and provide timely feedback.
Education
Master of Science - Natural Resources And Environment
University of Connecticut
Storrs, CT
Skills
Remote sensing techniques (Using ENVI and GIS)
Data analysis using R
Geographic information systems(GIS)
Python for GIS
MODEFLOW
Report preparation
Statistical software
Presentation skills
Fieldwork experience
Advanced Instrumentation Skills: Ion chromatography,Gas Chromatography-Mass
Spectrometry (GC-MS),
High-Performance Liquid
Chromatography (HPLC),
Atomic Fluorescence Spectroscopy
(AFS),CHN analyzer,Particle Size Analyzer
,LIHERO Multi Parameter Water Quality Analyzer
Spectrometry :UV/VIS Spectrophotometer
Field Measurements: Turbidity meter, pH meter, Electrical Conductivity, Portable Water Quality Analyzer, Spectra vista field spectroradiometer, Leaf spectrometer
Affiliations
Gavel Club of Uva Wellassa University
2021/2022
SERGEANT AT ARMS
Toastmasters International
Accomplishments
Deans List Award 2021-2022 (Academic Excellence), Uva Wellassa University
Faculty Awards (Faculty of Applied Earth Sciences, Uva Wellassa University):
GROUP PROJECT COMPETITION-SMART
TECHNOLOGY(WINNER)
Certification
Remote Sensing and Geospatial Data Analytics
Online Graduate Certificate(Reading) - University of Connecticut (2025 - Present)
Certificate course in Geographic Information System for Environmental studies - Uva Wellassa University, Sri Lanka (2022)
Certification course on Quality Management of Standard Institute of Sri Lanka (2021)
ORIGINS - FORMATION OF THE UNIVERSE, SOLAR SYSTEM, EARTH AND LIFE (ONLINE - Coursera) - University of Copenhagen, Denmark (2020)
Reference
Dr. Chandi Witharana
Assistant Professor
Department of Natural Resources & the Environment
Phone: 860-486-2840
Fax: 860-486-5408
Email: chandi.witharana@uconn.edu
Asso.Prof. D.T.Udagedara
Associate Professor,
Department of Applied Earth Sciences,
Uva Wellassa University.
Phone: +94 552226676
Email: tharanga@uwu.ac.lk
Timeline
Graduate Student Technician
University of Connecticut
05.2025 - 08.2025
Graduate Research Assistant
University of Connecticut
01.2025 - Current
Assistant Lecturer
Uva Wellassa University
12.2023 - 12.2024
Volunteer Research Assistant
Joint Research and Demonstration Center
03.2023 - 12.2025
Master of Science - Natural Resources And Environment