Senior Professor Ashoka Kumara

The Director is the Chief Executive Officer and the Chief Financial Officer of the NIFS, exercises general supervision over the activities of all staff and students, promotes the interests and furthers the development of the Institute.

Message

Message from the Director

The National Institute of Fundamental Studies (NIFS) is committed to advancement of fundamental research, contributing to scientific knowledge. As the only institute in the nation mandated to pursue exclusively fundamental studies, NIFS highlights the importance of the theme in fostering national development.

We endeavour to strengthen NIFS a globally recognized center of excellence in fundamental science, inculcating creativity, integrity, and innovation among our scientists and young researchers. We seek national and international collaboration and mentor students towards post-graduate education and engage in science dissemination activities.

I warmly invite researchers, students, collaborators, and stakeholders to engage with NIFS in building a scientifically advanced and sustainable future for Sri Lanka and beyond. Together, we can continue to inspire innovation, nurture young scientific talent, and contribute meaningfully to society through research and knowledge creation.

Senior Professor Ashoka KumaraDirectorNIFS
Leadership History

Past Directors of NIFS

History and biographical contributions of the Directors from our beginning in 1981.

NameTerm of OfficeBiography
Professor Saluka Kodituwakku2021 to 2024
Professor Saman Seneweera2018 to 2021
Professor Parakrama Karunaratne2015 to 2017
Professor Chandra Dissanayake2009 to 2015
Professor Kirthi Tennakone1996 to 2008
Professor Chandra Dissanayake1991 to 1996
Professor Cyril Ponnamperuma1984 to 1991
Professor Chandra Wickramasinghe1982 to 1984