We are delighted to announce the achievement by Dr. Ruvini Kurukulasooriya, Senior Research Scientist at the Duke-Ruhuna Collaborative Research Centre. On 12th December 2024, Dr. Kurukulasooriya was officially conferred her Doctorate in Molecular Microbiology at the convocation ceremony held at the Rabindranath Tagore Memorial Auditorium, University of Ruhuna, Matara.

Dr. Kurukulasooriya’s journey with the Duke-Ruhuna Collaborative Research Centre began in 2011 when she joined as a research coordinator. Over the years, she has made remarkable contributions to the Centre’s growth and success, overseeing its administrative operations and leading a wide array of impactful research initiatives. 

Dr. Kurukulasooriya is the first to earn a Ph.D. through the Duke-Ruhuna collaboration, marking a significant milestone in the partnership. Her doctoral research on "A ‘One Health’ Approach: The Epidemiology of Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) Isolated from humans, animals and animal product in Southern Sri Lanka" has been recognized on an international platform, with several publications on  local and international journals and conferences
This doctoral accomplishment is a testament to Dr. Kurukulasooriya’s dedication, expertise, and innovation in advancing one health research in Sri Lanka.

On behalf of the entire team at the Duke-Ruhuna Collaborative Research Centre, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Ruvini Kurukulasooriya on this well-deserved recognition of her academic and professional excellence.

Congratulations once again, Dr. Kurukulasooriya!