Dr. Pahalagedara is a strategic innovation leader and a researcher with over 14 years of experience in academic & industrial R&D. 

He obtained his PhD from University of Connecticut, USA and BSc (Hons) special degree in Chemistry from University of Peradeniya. 

Dr. Pahalagedara has experience in developing novel technologies in the areas of energy, materials science and sustainability and has worked with world renowned companies such as Exonn Mobil, Corning Incorporated and the US Department of Energy during his postgraduate studies.

 Dr. Pahalagedara has a proven track record in scientific R&D with over 1300 citations and is an inventor of two US patents. 

He is also an expert in strategizing business models to create an innovation eco-system integrating science, technology and commercialization. Before joining SLTC Research University Dr. Pahalagedara worked as a Senior Manager at Sri Lanka Institute of Nanotechnology (SLINTEC). 

He currently serves as the Dean, Faculty of Postgraduate and Research of Sri Lanka Technology Campus and as a member of the Board of Study of the Postgraduate Institute of Science at University of Peradeniya.