Hemaka Bandulasena is a Reader in Chemical Engineering and Head of the Department of Chemical Engineering at Loughborough University's School of Aeronautical, Automotive, Chemical and Materials Engineering. His academic journey began with a BSc Eng (Hons) from the University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, followed by a PhD in 'Microfluidic Inference of Rheology of Complex Fluids' from the University of Sheffield in 2008. After three years as a post-doctoral researcher at Sheffield, he joined Loughborough University in 2012 as a lecturer, progressing to Senior Lecturer in 2016, Reader in 2022, and Head of Department in 2025. He previously served as Director of Doctoral Programmes from 2019-2022. BSc Eng (Hons), University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka PhD, University of Sheffield, UK (2008) ILM Level 3 Award in Coaching ILM Level 5 Award in Leadership and Management His research focuses on sustainable chemical engineering solutions, particularly in microfluidics, biofuel production, and plasma-assisted biomass processing. Key research groups include Net Zero, Biotechnology and Healthcare, and Sustainable Manufacturing and Circular Economy. His work bridges fundamental fluid dynamics with practical applications in renewable energy and waste valorization. Analysis of his 15 most recent publications (2021-2025) reveals a strong emphasis on microbubble technology for bioethanol production, plasma-based pretreatment of lignocellulosic biomass, and fundamental studies of gas-liquid interfaces. His research consistently targets process intensification for sustainable manufacturing, with recurring themes in continuous processing, thermophilic fermentation, and novel reactor design for renewable energy applications. Senior Moulton Medal (2009) - Best paper published by IChemE Hemaka Bandulasena holds multiple professional affiliations including Chartered Engineer, Fellow of the Institution of Chemical Engineers, and Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. His collaborative network spans 50+ co-authors across institutions including University of Sheffield, Stanford University, and Claude Bernard University Lyon 1. Current research focuses on biofuels and biochemicals with active laboratory work in microfluidics and plasma reactors.
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