The Institute of Environmental Professionals Sri Lanka (IEPSL), in collaboration with the Ocean University of Sri Lanka and with the support of the Youth Environmental Professionals Forum Sri Lanka (YEPF), conducted an interactive knowledge-sharing session titled “Research Excellence, Scientific Publishing and Emerging Technologies“.
The event was held on 3 August 2026, from 9.00 a.m. to 11.00 a.m., at the Ocean University of Sri Lanka. It brought together students, academic staff, researchers and environmental professionals for a discussion on research excellence, marine and environmental science, scientific publishing, multidisciplinary fieldwork and emerging technologies.
The session was led by Dr. Douglas Bearham, an Experimental Scientist from the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), Australia. Drawing on his international experience, he shared practical insights from marine and environmental research projects, explained the scientific publishing process and discussed the use of Artificial Intelligence in modern research. The interactive exchange encouraged participants to consider how innovation, collaboration and effective scientific communication could support evidence-based solutions to local and global environmental challenges.
Following the main session, Mr. Chehara Harith, an IEPSL student member from the Department of Oceanography at the Ocean University of Sri Lanka, delivered a brief presentation on IEPSL. He highlighted the importance of joining a professional institute and explained the membership, networking, mentoring, professional development and knowledge-sharing opportunities available to students and young environmental professionals.
The programme strengthened connections among academia, research organisations and professional bodies while encouraging students to engage more actively in Sri Lanka’s environmental sector.
IEPSL sincerely thanks Dr. Douglas Bearham for sharing his expertise and inspiring future environmental and marine science professionals. The Institute also thanks Mrs. Ranithri Bearham for her support and participation.
IEPSL expresses its gratitude to Mr. Prasad Jayaweera, CEnvP, whose initiative and professional connection with Dr. Bearham made the session possible, and acknowledges Mr. Asela Iddawela, President of IEPSL, for his guidance and continued support for professional development and knowledge-sharing initiatives.
The Institute also recognises the efforts of Dr. Udayagee Kumarasinghe, Chairperson of the Academic and Examination Committee; Dr. Kasunthi Amarasekara, Secretary of the Committee; and Ms. Shamali Rathnasri, Committee Member, for coordinating the event.
IEPSL extends its appreciation to the Vice Chancellor of the Ocean University of Sri Lanka, the Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Management, and the university’s academic staff and students for their support, facilitation and active participation.
Through initiatives of this nature, IEPSL continues to inspire, connect and empower the next generation of environmental professionals while promoting research excellence and sustainable development.
