Seven academics from the Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology (SLIIT) have been recognised in the Stanford–Elsevier World’s Top 2% Scientists lists, highlighting the university’s contribution to internationally acclaimed research. The academics recognised in 2026 have produced pioneering research in areas such as Artificial Intelligence and Intelligent Systems, Smart Energy, Wireless Communication, IoT, Nanotechnology, Biotechnology, Advanced Materials and Structural Engineering.
Prof. Bhagya Nathali Silva of the Faculty of Computing, Prof. Charitha Jayaruk and Prof. Dhanushka Udayanga of the Faculty of Humanities and Sciences, Prof. Dushantha Jayakody, Dr. Pasindu Meddage of the Faculty of Engineering, Senior Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost, Prof. Nimal Rajapakse have been recognised for their research contributions in 2025. In addition, Prof. Nimal Rajapakse, Prof. Priyan Dias, and Prof. Dushantha Jayakody have been recognized for their career-long contributions to research in their respective fields.
Drawing on Elsevier’s Scopus database, the Stanford–Elsevier assessment uses standardised citation indicators to identify influential researchers across scientific disciplines. The 2026 edition evaluates single-year citation impact during 2025 and career-long impact up to the end of 2025. Resonating with the international scientific community, the SLIIT-based scientists are proof of SLIIT’s deliberate move to position itself as a leading research university.
Senior Deputy Vice Chancellor and Provost Prof. Nimal Rajapakse says, “Having seven of our scientists on the Stanford-Elsevier list is a proud moment for SLIIT. The list recognises researchers for the impact of their work worldwide; our scientists are competing with the best at an international level for research reputation and academic excellence. At SLIIT, a culture of research excellence is built on international collaborations, publishing pioneering work in reputed international journals, and the research facilities and infrastructure ranging from a resource rich library to advanced labs that we have invested in. Our students are also a part of this culture, working alongside our researchers and gaining exposure they could not get from the classroom alone. Today, our graduates are successful in getting competitive scholarships from leading universities due to their research record at SLIIT”
The recognition of seven SLIIT academics places individual research achievement at the centre of this wider institutional direction. Alongside industry collaboration and international engagement, it supports a model of higher education in which Sri Lankan researchers contribute to global knowledge and students learn how to carry ideas into practice.
To strengthen the real-world impact of research, SLIIT is strategically expanding its footprint in innovation and entrepreneurship. This includes its membership in the Global Alliance of Entrepreneurial Universities as the first Sri Lankan member, a US patent, and growing collaboration with global industry leaders. Together, these efforts are helping SLIIT turn research into practical solutions, creating lasting value for industry and society.
