About NIFS
About NIFS
The National Institute of Fundamental Studies is Sri Lanka's dedicated institute for fundamental research in natural sciences, social sciences, and philosophy.
Vision & Mission
Vision
To be a world-renowned centre of excellence for research in fundamental studies.
Mission
To initiate, promote, and engage in advanced research that strengthens scientific knowledge and develops human resources for national development.
Our History & Milestones
Explore the rich history of the National Institute of Fundamental Studies, marking over four decades of scientific breakthroughs, leadership, and infrastructure expansions. Scroll down to watch the history unfold.
Establishment of the Institute
The Parliament of Sri Lanka passes the Institute of Fundamental Studies (IFS) Act No. 55 of 1981, creating a dedicated national center for advanced research in natural sciences, social sciences, and philosophy.
First Director Appointed
The world-famous astrophysicist Professor Chandra Wickramasinghe is appointed as the first Director (1982–1984), initiating operations from Colombo.
Prof. Cyril Ponnamperuma Appointed
Renowned NASA chemist and exobiologist Professor Cyril Ponnamperuma becomes Director (1984–1991). He introduces a major expansion, recruiting high-caliber scientists and laying the foundation for modern research facilities.
Specialized Scientific Library
The specialized NIFS Scientific Library is established, creating a crucial repository of scientific literature, print journals, and e-databases for researchers.
Relocation to Hanthana, Kandy
To foster a scenic, quiet, and intellectually stimulating environment, the institute relocates its headquarters from Colombo to the hills of Hanthana, Kandy.
Official Opening of Hanthana Facility
In April 1988, the state-of-the-art research laboratories and headquarters at Hanthana, Kandy, are officially opened, consolidating the institute's operations.
Gift of Sam Popham's Arboretum
Notable British planter and conservationist Sam Popham gifts his unique dry-zone arboretum in Dambulla to the IFS. It becomes a permanent site for dry zone forest restoration, nature trails, and environmental education.
Prof. Chandra Dissanayake's 1st Term
Distinguished geologist Professor Chandra Dissanayake is appointed Director (1991–1996), expanding research in geology and environmental geochemistry.
Prof. Kirthi Tennakone Appointed
Renowned physicist Professor Kirthi Tennakone is appointed Director (1996–2008). Under his long leadership, the institute achieves international recognition in solid-state chemistry, dye-sensitized solar cells, and nanotechnology.
Prof. Chandra Dissanayake's 2nd Term
Professor Chandra Dissanayake is re-appointed as Director (2009–2015), strengthening research governance and national collaborations.
Renaming to NIFS (Act No. 25 of 2014)
Parliament amends the original act (Act No. 25 of 2014), renaming the institution to the National Institute of Fundamental Studies (NIFS) to codify and strengthen its national mandate.
Prof. Parakrama Karunaratne Appointed
Professor Parakrama Karunaratne serves as Director (2015–2017), driving bioenergy, microbiology, and agricultural biotechnology research.
Prof. Saman Seneweera Appointed
Professor Saman Seneweera serves as Director (2018–2021), focusing on laboratory modernization, advanced analytical instrumentation, and global collaborations.
Prof. Saluka Kodituwakku Appointed
Professor Saluka Kodituwakku serves as Director (2021–2024), expanding the institute's focus to computer science, mathematics, and statistical modeling.
Prof. Siril Wijesundara Appointed
Senior Professor Siril Wijesundara is appointed as Acting Director, guiding the current research, postgraduate mentoring, and public science outreach.