Meet Sri Lankan Researcher — Prabhani Ranaweera
What are you currently working on or worked on before?
I am currently working on designing and development bulletproof armour subjected to high-velocity projectile impacts at the Centre for Advanced Structural Engineering, The University of Sydney.
Specifically, I am interested in developing a robust composite metallic system with less areal density and superior ballistic performance along with minimum behind armour blunt trauma which can replace existing ceramic and monolithic steel armour. Hence, my research will pave the way for passenger safety, thus opening new pathways to address Human Security issues.
You can read up all about my work and publications here: link 1, Link 2.
What encouraged you to pursue your research topic?
Optimization of designing metal armours providing protection against high-velocity dynamic impacts such as projectile impacts has been of interest in civil and military applications for a long time. This study area was a challenging aspect, with all the finite research that has been done and this motivated me to take the risk and place my research interest in the said area since I wanted to contribute to an untapped area in Civil Engineering.
Where do you find your best inspiration for your work?
I find the best inspiration from my research supervisor and my fellow research colleagues. Also, innovative research in my field of study also inspires me to do something better and novel.
What’s one of your biggest personal achievements so far?
My biggest academic achievement so far is receiving a full scholarship to pursue my PhD at the University of Sydney which is one of the top universities in the world.
What lessons would you share with a budding researcher?
The main lesson I would like to share is that research is not a constant success, but it is also not a constant failure. So, be patient and keep updated because the academic world is always changing.
What motivated you to be a researcher?
Since my school days, I found myself inquisitive in nature who is in a competition with myself eager to be innovative. This was the main reason to pursue the study area I am currently working on as well. Further, I always wanted to do something beneficial for society and that reason also motivated me to be a researcher.
According to your opinion, what are the changes that the Sri Lankan education system needs to do, in order to meet the requirement of the international industry and academia?
I think Sri Lanka should properly acknowledge students who would like to do innovations and should provide the necessary means. For that it is essential to revisit policy formulations on Education, thus bringing in both institutional and attitudinal change. Only then, can the Sri Lankan youth can compete with and enjoy the benefits of Global Development. Given the chance I would absolutely support the development of research careers in Sri Lanka.
