In a notable recognition of scientific excellence, several distinguished scientists from Sri Lanka have secured spots in the prestigious Asian Scientist 100 list for 2023. This esteemed roster, curated by Asian Scientist Magazine, features trailblazing individuals whose contributions span various scientific disciplines.
Among the notable Sri Lankan scientists included in the list are Chathuranga Ranasinghe from the University of Colombo, Ashani Savinda Ranathunga from the University of Moratuwa, Dr. Asha DeVos, Dr. Rohan Pethiyagoda, and Prof. Chandana Jayaratne. Each scientist has garnered attention for their remarkable achievements and groundbreaking work.
Chathuranga Ranasinghe, recognized for his expertise in sports medicine, was honored with the 7th Sheikh Fahad Hiroshima-Asia Sports Medicine and Science Award in 2022—an accolade presented every four years to a distinguished medical expert in Asia.
Ashani Savinda Ranathunga stands out for her innovative contributions, earning her the 2022 OWSD-Elsevier Foundation Award. Her work involves transforming industrial and agricultural waste into value-added products, utilized as raw materials for eco-friendly construction and development projects.
Dr. Asha DeVos, a marine biologist and the founder of Oceanswell, Sri Lanka’s premier marine conservation research and education organization, is celebrated as the first Sri Lankan to obtain a PhD in marine mammal research. Notably, she is also the first National Geographic explorer from the country. Dr. DeVos’s accolades include the Maxwell-Hanrahan Award in Field Biology, Vanithabhimana Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Global Teacher Prize.
Rohan Pethiyagoda, a distinguished figure in zoology, secured the 2022 Linnean Medal—the first Sri Lankan to receive this prestigious award. His consistent contributions to biodiversity conservation in Sri Lanka were acknowledged through this honor.
Prof. Chandana Jayaratne, recognized for his consistent professional excellence in science and technology, was conferred the National Apex Award 2022 by the Sri Lankan President.
The Asian Scientist 100 list, now in its eighth edition, serves as a platform to acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of outstanding researchers in the Asian region. To be featured on this distinguished list, scientists must have received national or international recognition in the preceding year, demonstrating significant contributions to research, discovery, or leadership in academia or industry. The inclusion of these accomplished Sri Lankan scientists underscores their impactful contributions to the global scientific community.
