Bhagya Gunasekera

Bhagya Gunasekera is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Illinois, part of the College of Liberal Arts & Sciences. He holds a Ph.D. in Clinical Bioanalytical Chemistry from Cleveland State University (2014) and an M.S. in Analytical Chemistry from the University of Colombo (2008). Prior to academia, he worked in biomedical research at the University of Georgia’s Regenerative Bioscience Center (2014–2015) and in roles at Holcim Cements Group and the IUCN. His research focuses on enzyme-based nitric oxide (NO) release systems for medical devices, neuroregeneration, and biomaterials. He has taught at Cleveland State University (2015–2017) and served as Treasurer of the Cleveland ACS Section.

Education:

• B.S. Biology, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka (2003)
• M.S. Analytical Chemistry, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka (2008)
• Ph.D. Clinical Bioanalytical Chemistry, Cleveland State University (2014)

Research Interests: Dr. Gunasekera’s work bridges biochemistry and materials science, emphasizing NO-releasing thin films for medical implants, neuroregenerative hydrogels, and sustainable waste management. His NO-based systems aim to combat thrombosis and enhance biocompatibility of devices. He advocates STEM education equity and mentorship, particularly for underrepresented groups.

Teaching & Advocacy: His teaching philosophy emphasizes analogies to simplify complex concepts, fostering engagement in STEM. He actively promotes STEM recruitment and retention, addressing knowledge gaps through pedagogical innovation. He encourages critical thinking in students, emphasizing experimental intuition over rigid protocols.

Grants & Labs: While specific grants are not listed, his research aligns with NIH-funded areas in biomedical materials and neuroregeneration. He collaborates on projects involving enzyme immobilization and biomaterials design.

Labs/Teams: Collaborates with interdisciplinary teams in biomedical engineering and chemistry, focusing on translational research for clinical applications.