Fernando, Dr. Lakma

Dr. Lakma Fernando holds a Ph.D. in Engineering with an emphasis in Applied Physics from Mississippi State University, where her doctoral research focused on halo nuclei interactions using effective field theory (EFT). She also earned her M.S. in Physics from Mississippi State and her B.S. in Physics, with minors in Mathematics and Electronics, from the University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka. Her postdoctoral work involved designing a polarimeter to observe cosmic gamma rays in the 100 MeV–1 GeV range, advancing research with implications for understanding gamma-ray emission mechanisms in astrophysical phenomena and probing fundamental physics questions. Dr. Fernando’s earlier research applied EFT to study low-energy nuclear interactions, contributing valuable insights into elemental abundances in nature and electromagnetic form factors of halo nuclei.

An experienced educator, Dr. Fernando has taught and assisted in physics and electronics courses and laboratories at both Mississippi State University and the University of Kelaniya. She has been recognized with honors such as the Bagley College Fellowship and a gold medal for best physics student in her undergraduate program. Dedicated to professional growth, she has completed the Preparing Future Faculty program and participated in the American Physical Society’s professional development workshops. Dr. Fernando has published in peer-reviewed journals, presented at national and international conferences, and continues to combine her passion for teaching, research, and mentoring with a commitment to advancing knowledge in physics and astrophysics.