MPhil Studentship

Deadline:- 22nd September 2025

MPhil Studentship
Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, University of Peradeniya

Project Title: Comparative Analysis of Machine Learning and Numerical Weather Prediction Models for Enhanced Local Weather Forecasting and Water Resource Management in Sri Lanka

Duration: Two years, Full-time (Rs. 70,000/= monthly stipend as per NRC-approved rates).

Nature of Work : The selected research student will contribute to a cutting-edge project focusing on advancing weather forecasting and hydrological modeling in Sri Lanka.

The research involves:
• Developing and evaluating integrated approaches that combine atmospheric models with hydrological models for improved rainfall and river discharge predictions.
• Exploring the role of machine learning in enhancing the accuracy and reliability of forecasting systems.
• Applying data-driven techniques to assess long-term changes in rainfall and water resources under future climate scenarios.
The work will involve both computational modeling and data-driven analysis, integrating physical process-based models with advanced machine learning approaches.

The student will gain expertise in weather prediction, hydrological modeling, climate downscaling, and AI-based forecasting methods, while contributing to disaster preparedness, agricultural planning, and sustainable water resource management in Sri Lanka.

Qualifications: This postgraduate studentship, leading to the Degree of Master of Philosophy (MPhil), is open to candidates with a strong background in:

• A strong undergraduate academic record with a minimum of Second Class (Upper Division) is essential.
• Research experience and publications (Journal/Conference/Book Chapter) will be considered an added advantage.
• Prior exposure to hydrological or weather modeling, programming , or machine learning techniques will also be beneficial.
Applications : Interested candidates should submit A curriculum vitae (CV), Certified true copies of academic transcripts and degree certificates, Copies of any publications (if available)

via the following link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeBaGWThgOr1uKy1-cCvJcb7CusHtoLvtKJb4pm_oEhqC4oiw/viewform?usp=send_form

Application Form
Deadline: 22nd September 2025
Only short-listed candidates will be invited for interviews. Final selection will be based on the decision of the interview panel.

Principal Investigator:
Dr. Panduka Neluwala
Co-Investigators:
Dr. Gouri De Silva, Department of Civil Engineering
Dr. Damayanthi Herath, Department of Computer Engineering

Contact
For further inquiries, please contact:
Dr. Panduka Neluwala (Principal Investigator – NRC IDG Grant)
Email: pandukaneluwala@eng.pdn.ac.lk