Curriculum Vitae Astronomer in Sri Lanka Colombo – Free Word Template Download with AI

Personal Information

Name: Dr. Lakshani Tharanga Mendis

Email: [email protected]

Phone: +94 11 234 5678

Address: No. 56, Galle Road, Colombo 03, Sri Lanka

Objective

A dedicated and passionate Astronomer with a strong academic background and research experience in observational astronomy. Committed to advancing astronomical knowledge in Sri Lanka Colombo by fostering local scientific initiatives, promoting public engagement, and contributing to global research efforts through collaboration with international institutions.

Education

• PhD in Astronomy, University of Edinburgh, Scotland (2018–2021)

Thesis: "Studying Exoplanetary Atmospheres Using Spectroscopic Techniques in Tropical Observatories." Focused on optimizing observational methods for equatorial regions like Sri Lanka Colombo.

• MSc in Astrophysics, University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka (2015–2017)

Research Project: "Analysis of Solar Activity Cycles in the Indian Ocean Region." Explored solar phenomena affecting satellite communications in Sri Lanka.

• BSc (Hons) in Physics, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka (2012–2015)

Graduated with distinction, specializing in theoretical and observational astronomy. Presented a paper on "The Role of Astronomy in Cultural Heritage of Sri Lanka."

Professional Experience

Senior Research Astronomer

Sri Lanka Astronomical Society (SLAS), Colombo | 2021–Present

• Led a team of 10 researchers to establish the first dedicated observatory in Sri Lanka Colombo for real-time monitoring of meteor showers and satellite trajectories.
• Collaborated with NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL) on a project analyzing space debris near geostationary orbit, utilizing data from Sri Lanka's equatorial location.
• Developed educational programs for schools in Colombo, introducing astronomy to over 5,000 students through workshops and telescope demonstrations.

Research Assistant

University of Edinburgh, Scotland | 2018–2021

• Participated in the European Southern Observatory (ESO) project to study exoplanet atmospheres using the Very Large Telescope (VLT).
• Published research on "Spectral Signatures of Exoplanets" in the journal *Astronomy & Astrophysics*, highlighting challenges faced by tropical observatories.
• Organized a symposium in Colombo, Sri Lanka, titled "Astronomy for the Indian Ocean," attracting scientists from 15 countries.

Teaching Assistant

University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka | 2017–2018

• Taught undergraduate courses in astrophysics and planetary science, emphasizing the relevance of astronomy to Sri Lanka's geographical context.
• Mentored students in research projects related to solar energy applications and celestial navigation techniques used historically in Sri Lankan maritime trade.

Research Interests

• Observational Astronomy: Focused on equatorial observatories, including the design of cost-effective instruments for Sri Lanka Colombo's climate.
• Exoplanetary Science: Investigating atmospheric compositions of exoplanets using spectroscopy and machine learning algorithms.
• Cultural Astronomy: Exploring ancient Sri Lankan stargazing traditions and their alignment with modern astronomical discoveries.
• Space Weather: Studying the impact of solar flares on communication systems in South Asia, particularly in Colombo's tech sector.

Publications

• Mendis, L.T. (2022). "Optimizing Tropical Observatories for Exoplanet Research." *Journal of Astronomical Instrumentation*, 11(4), 234–250.
• Mendis, L.T. et al. (2019). "Space Debris Monitoring from Sri Lanka Colombo: A Case Study." *International Journal of Remote Sensing*, 40(18), 6789–6805.
• Mendis, L.T. (2017). "Sri Lankan Star Lore and Its Modern Relevance." *Proceedings of the Sri Lanka Astronomical Society*, 5(2), 45–60.

Awards and Recognitions

• 2021: "Outstanding Research Contribution" by the Sri Lanka Association of Scientists.
• 2019: Young Scientist Award from the International Astronomical Union (IAU), recognizing work on space debris in tropical regions.
• 2018: Best Poster Presentation at the Asia-Pacific Astronomy Conference, Colombo, for research on solar activity cycles.

Professional Memberships

• International Astronomical Union (IAU) | Member since 2018
• Sri Lanka Astronomical Society (SLAS) | President, 2022–Present
• American Astronomical Society (AAS) | Member since 2019

Technical Skills

• Proficient in data analysis using Python, IRAF, and MATLAB.
• Expertise in telescope operation and maintenance for equatorial climates.
• Familiarity with radio astronomy tools such as AIPS and CASA.
• Fluent in English, Sinhala, and Tamil (for outreach in Sri Lanka Colombo).

Language Proficiency

• English: Native speaker
• Sinhala: Fluent
• Tamil: Intermediate

References

Available upon request. Contact Dr. Lakshani Tharanga Mendis for details.