- Research area: Hydrogen production
- Institution: Cranfield University
- Supervisors: Professor Upul KG Wijayantha and Professor Ewan McAdam
- PhD student: Soorya D B K Kulathunga Mudiyansele
Project summary
This research project aims to investigate advanced, low-cost scientific approaches to address the challenges associated with seawater splitting for green hydrogen production. Specifically, it focuses on minimizing side reactions, reducing overpotential to improve efficiency, and enhancing durability to advance the technology. The project will explore techniques from analytical chemistry, materials science, electrochemistry, and physical chemistry to develop cost-effective, high-performance electrocatalysts based on non-noble metals.
Meet the researcher
Hi, I’m Soorya. I earned my undergraduate degree in Chemistry from the University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka. I then spent four years at the National Institute of Fundamental Studies, Sri Lanka, conducting research in materials chemistry, catalysis, renewable energy, and air pollution mitigation. Following that, I worked as a chemistry lecturer in the Department of Science and Technology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, at Uva Wellassa University, Sri Lanka.
This experience inspired me to pursue an MSc by Research at Cranfield University as a Brian Meredith Net Zero Scholar, where my research focused on developing non-noble metal-based electrodes for green hydrogen production via electrochemical alkaline water splitting. Upon completing my MSc research, I submitted an invention disclosure for potential IP protection.
I am enjoying pursuing my novel research project as part of the EnerHy CDT. The support from the academics and fellow research students is excellent.
Soorya was accepted to present at the Royce National PhD Conference 2026, speaking under the Electrochemical Systems theme of the Royce Institute, focused on delivering substantial advances in efficient energy storage, new energy vectors, and chemical synthesis through novel electrochemical devices and systems.
Read the news announcement to find out more.