Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Affiliations
Accomplishments
Certification
Reference
Timeline
Generic

Ravindi Wanshanatha

Willimantic,CT

Summary

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

University of Connecticut