Top of page

Student/Staff Portal
Global Site Navigation

School of Science

Local Section Navigation
You are here: Main Content
  • A photo of Malmee Gangathilaka

    Malmee Gangathilaka

Related Contents

  • See Also
  • ORCiD profile
    https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9261-0062
  • ORCiD profile
  • LinkedIn profile
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/malmee-gangathilaka-05a2741aa
  • LinkedIn profile

Malmee Gangathilaka

Overview of thesis

Microbial mats can be defined as communities of microorganisms that succeed on sediment in diverse ecosystems, mainly formed by cyanobacteria due to their unique qualities. Coastal regions that are affected by tides undergoes significant fluctuations in its moisture levels, salt content, and temperature. Cyanobacteria are resilient in the face of challenging conditions, such as prolonged periods without water and drastic changes in salinity and temperature. In intertidal coastal areas the cyanobacterial mats play important roles in the environment. They carry out important tasks such as producing food through photosynthesis, recycling nutrients, storing carbon, and serving as places where various creatures like invertebrates, fish, and birds find food, reproduce, and raise their young.

My PhD study aims to explore the ecological purposes, importance, and activities of cyanobacterial mats in intertidal coastal ecosystems. Additionally, it will examine the external factors that impact the productivity and overall operation of these mats within the ecosystem. The results of this research will offer valuable insights for shaping upcoming coastal development projects and conservation of coastal ecology. The primary focus of the project will be on the Pilbara coast of Western Australia.

The below are all optional. Please keep it brief.

Qualifications

  • Masters of Science (Sustainability and Environmental modelling), University of Dundee. Scotland (2022 to 2023)
  • B.Sc. (Special) Degree in Applied Biology, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Sri Lanka (2013 to 2017)

Research

Research Interests

  • Marine microbiology
  • Microbial ecology
  • Marine and coastal conservation

Past Research employment history

  • 2019-2022: Research assistant, National Institute of Fundamental Studies (NIFS), Sri Lanka
  • 2018 March - 2018 August: Project assistant at National Herbarium, Royal Botanical Garden, Sri Lanka

Past Teaching

  • 2017-2018: Temporary Demonstrator at Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Sri Lanaka

Scholarships and Awards

  • DVCR WAMSI Mardi Research Scholarship

Supervisors

  • Principal Supervisor: A/Prof Kathryn MCMAHON
  • Associate Supervisor: Dr Shannon DEE
  • Co-Principal Supervisor: Prof Glenn HYNDES

Contact

Konara Mudiyanselage Shashikala Malmee Gangathilaka
PhD Student
Centre for Marine Ecosystems Research
School of Science
Skip to top of page