Shehani Rathnayaka
Brighton,United Kingdom
Summary
Innovative Postgraduate Researcher specialising in Aquatic Environment research, focusing on microbial and nutrient removal analysis to improve wastewater treatment. Experienced in research methodologies and data analysis, with a strong record of managing projects and collaborating with diverse teams to present findings effectively.
Overview
2
2
years of professional experience
Work History
Postgraduate Researcher
University of Brighton
Brighton
10.2025 - Current
- Conducted research in Aquatic Environment at University of Brighton, developing technical skills in environmental monitoring, water quality analysis, and spatial data interpretation. Experienced in laboratory-based wastewater analysis and environmental data handling. Skilled in ArcGIS, R Studio, and technical reporting, with academic knowledge of UK environmental assessment frameworks.
- Investigated influence of biological treatment configurations (activated sludge vs. trickling filter) and tertiary treatment on stage-specific removal of viruses, fecal indicator bacteria, and nutrients during Spring and Summer.
- Microbial and nutrient Removal analysis in Tertiary Treatment of Biological wastewater treatment Plants in South England (UK)
- Supervisor: Dr Diogo Da Silva (Senior Lecturer University of Brighton)
Laboratory Assistant
National Water Supply & Drainage Board
Kurunegala, Sri Lanka
05.2024 - 11.2024
- Daily testing procedures (including Physical, Chemical and microbiological analysis of wastewater) and Microscopic Analysis.
- Demonstrated foundational knowledge of laboratory quality parameters and parameter testing processes to support accurate analysis.
- Prepared and labelled reagents and chemicals for laboratory use while adhering to laboratory safety procedures.
- Documented processes and practices for ISO 9001 (17025) standards related to quality management and SS standards in laboratory and treatment plant.
- Participated in an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for a new septic tank project, assisting with data collection and environmental evaluation.
- Water Reclamation Section - North Western Sewage Treatment Plant, Sri Lanka
Education
MSc by Research - Aquatic Environment
University of Brighton
Brighton, United Kingdom07-2026
Bachelor of Science (Hons) - Mineral Resources and Technology Specialization in Water Sciences and Technology
Uva wellassa university of Sri Lanka
Badulla, Sri Lanka01-2024
Diploma in AutoCAD -
ICBT Campus
Kandy, Sri Lanka01-2020
Diploma in English -
English Language Academy
Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka01-2018
G.C.E. Advanced Level Examination - Biological Science
Ananda Balika National School
Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka01-2017
G.C.E. Ordinary Level Examination -
Ananda Balika National School
Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka01-2014
Skills
- Environmental monitoring
- Water quality analysis
- Wastewater assessment
- Environmental data analysis
- Data analysis
- Data collection
- Laboratory equipment operation
- Laboratory safety
- Quality documentation
- Regulatory compliance
Accomplishments
- Dean's List for Outstanding Academic Performance, Semester II 100 Level, Semester I & II 200 Level, Semester II 300 Level, Semester I & II 400 Level
Research Interest
- Wastewater Microbiology
- Viral Indicator (somatic Coliphages)
- Water Quality
- Wastewater Treatment
- Microbial Ecology
- Water Reuse
- Antimicrobial Resistance in Aquatic Environments
Academic Referees
- Dr Diogo Gomas Da Silva (Senior Lecturer, University Of Brighton, Brighton) D.TrajanoGomesDaSilva2@brighton.ac.uk
- Dr Titus Cooray ( Senior Lecturer, Uva Wellassa University, Sri Lanka) titus@uwu.ac.lk
Timeline
Postgraduate Researcher
University of Brighton
10.2025 - Current
Laboratory Assistant
National Water Supply & Drainage Board
05.2024 - 11.2024
MSc by Research - Aquatic Environment
University of Brighton
Bachelor of Science (Hons) - Mineral Resources and Technology Specialization in Water Sciences and Technology
Uva wellassa university of Sri Lanka
Diploma in AutoCAD -
ICBT Campus
Diploma in English -
English Language Academy
G.C.E. Advanced Level Examination - Biological Science
Ananda Balika National School
G.C.E. Ordinary Level Examination -
Ananda Balika National School