Education
Ph.D., Applied Physics, Southern Illinois University Carbondale
M.S., Applied Physics, Southern Illinois University Carbondale
B.Sc., Physics, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
Bio
Hansika Sirikumara, Ph.D., is an assistant professor of physics and engineering, as well as an educator and researcher specializing in applied physics, computational materials science, and engineering education. She teaches a wide range of undergraduate courses at Marian University, including engineering physics, core engineering curriculum courses, and specialized subjects in computer engineering. In addition to her teaching role, she serves on several university and engineering school committees, contributing to curriculum development, program assessment, and initiatives aimed at enhancing student success and strengthening faculty collaboration.
Dr. Sirikumara earned her Bachelor of Science in Applied Physics from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura in Sri Lanka and subsequently completed both her Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy in Applied Physics at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. Since joining Marian University in 2020, she has applied her academic training and research expertise to enrich students learning across engineering disciplines, integrating computational techniques and real-world problem-solving into her courses.
Her research focuses on the design and discovery of advanced materials for electronic and energy-related applications using ab initio Density Functional Theory (DFT). Using Quantum ESPRESSO, she examines the electronic, thermal, and mechanical properties of materials at the atomic scale to better understand their performance and potential technological impact. She is also actively engaged in advancing engineering education through the development of computational teaching tools, using platforms such as Python and MATLAB to enhance modeling, simulation, and analytical skills in the classroom. Through her combined efforts in teaching, service, and research, Dr. Sirikumara contributes to the advancement of both engineering education and the broader field of computational materials science.
Courses Taught
Teaching Philosophy
Dr. Sirikumara's teaching philosophy focuses on helping students build strong STEM foundations while developing confidence, curiosity, and problem-solving skills. She creates an inclusive and welcoming classroom where students feel comfortable asking questions and sharing ideas.
By blending traditional instruction with technology-enhanced, hands-on activities, Dr. Sirikumara supports different learning styles and keeps students engaged. She uses clear examples before introducing mathematics and provides frequent assessments with opportunities to improve. Her goal is for students to leave the class motivated, prepared, and confident in their ability to succeed.
Research Interests
Dr. Sirikumara's research focuses on the computational design and fundamental understanding of advanced materials for emerging electronic and energy-related technologies.
A complementary aspect of her research involves developing computational tools and educational modules that enhance engineering teaching and learning. Using Python and MATLAB, Dr. Sirikumara creates simulations, visualization tools, and interactive exercises that help students better understand complex physical phenomena and connect theoretical concepts with real-world applications. This work bridges computational science with pedagogy, supporting clearer conceptual understanding and stronger analytical skills among engineering students.
Publications
Awards
Research Excellence 2023 award E. S. Witchger School of Engineering Marian University Indianapolis. 2023.
Research Excellence 2022 award , E. S. Witchger School of Engineering, Marian University Indianapolis. 2022.
Professional Service and Affiliations
Undergraduate Advisor in Computer Engineering and Engineering Physics (2022-present)
Elections Committee member (2022-present)
Academic Policies Committee member (2024-present)
Advisor, Society of Women in Engineering (SWE) student chapter. (September 2023 - Present)
Clare Boothe Luce Schorship Student Advisor (2023-present)
Outreach Committee member (2023-present)
Camp Director in INnovation Through Engineering Summer Camp 2023
Assistant Camp Director in INnovation Through Engineering Summer Camp 2022
