DR. Chiththaka Chaturanga Devapriya Bandara Imihami Mudiyanselage
Helmholtz-Zentrum – Potsdam – Deutsches GeoForschungsZentrum (GFZ)
I am a scientist passionate about microscopy and driven by curiosity, collaboration, and a desire to explore the unseen world at the nano–bio interface. My expertise spans advanced imaging techniques, with a research focus at the intersection of microbiology, materials science, and surface chemistry. I investigate how microorganisms interact with complex nanostructures — unlocking insights that support real-world solutions for challenges like antimicrobial resistance and infection control.
Trained in globally renowned laboratories across Sri Lanka, Australia, Germany, and the UK, I bring a cross-cultural, collaborative mindset to scientific innovation. I have secured over €250,000 in research funding and specialise in high-resolution microscopy, with a focus on developing correlative imaging workflows that span multiple modalities and length scales.
Currently based in Germany, I lead cryo-microscopy method development at the Helmholtz Centre for Geosciences, while maintaining active collaborations through prestigious Marie Skłodowska-Curie and UKRI Fellowships. My interdisciplinary background in chemistry, molecular biology, and nanotechnology allows me to quickly adapt, lead diverse research initiatives, and mentor early-career scientists.
One of my most impactful contributions is the characterisation of bacteria-killing nanostructures on dragonfly wings — pioneering the development of chemical-free antimicrobial surfaces inspired by nature. This work has been widely cited and featured in media for its innovation and societal relevance.