Thanuka Ranatunga is a chemistry graduate from the University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka, where he earned a B.Sc. Honors degree in Chemistry. His final-year undergraduate research project, titled “Photocatalytic Food Packaging Based on Graphene Oxide (GO) Incorporated Iron Titanate Derived from Natural Ilmenite,” was supervised by Prof. Nilwala Kottegoda, Dr. Imalka Munaweera, and Prof. Dilushan R. Jayasundara. 

In Fall 2024, Thanuka began his Ph.D. studies in Physical Chemistry at Temple University, USA. At the end of 2024, he joined Dr. Eric Borguet’s research group, where his research focuses on photocatalysis, metal oxide nanomaterials, porous materials, and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). His current work investigates how defect engineering, particularly in WO₃-based photocatalysts, influences photocatalytic performance, charge-carrier dynamics, and catalytic behavior. Through this research, he aims to understand how structural and electronic changes in nanomaterials affect their ability to drive light-induced chemical reactions.

In parallel, Thanuka’s research explores MOF–guest interactions under isolated gas environments using ultra-high vacuum systems, with a particular focus on understanding structure–property relationships in MOFs. His work aims to guide the design of faster and more efficient catalytic systems for cutting-edge applications, including CO₂ capture and conversion. To investigate these processes, he uses advanced surface-science techniques such as temperature-programmed infrared spectroscopy (TP-IR) and temperature-programmed desorption mass spectrometry (TPD-MS).
Thanuka also investigates photocatalysis and dark photocatalysis using metal oxide nanomaterials, aiming to harness light as a free energy source to drive chemical transformations and to develop strategies for storing that energy for use even in the absence of light. This dual approach integrates fundamental materials design with innovative energy applications.

Overall, Thanuka’s research lies at the intersection of catalysis, materials science, nanomaterials, surface chemistry, porous materials, and energy conversion. He is especially interested in understanding catalytic mechanisms and developing innovative materials for photocatalytic, environmental, and energy-related applications.