Uva Wellassa University has entered into a five-year research agreement with the Helmholtz-Zentrum für Umweltforschung GmbH – UFZ, Germany, to investigate how hyper-diverse tropical rainforests maintain their exceptional species richness. The project has secured Euro 50,000 in funding and was approved by the Sri Lankan Cabinet at its meeting on 7 September 2026.

The project, SpatioCoexistence, aims to develop a spatially-explicit coexistence framework using Sri Lanka’s lowland rainforests as a model system. Researchers will monitor the 25-hectare Sinharaja Forest Dynamics Plot, integrate spatial data with mechanistic models, and examine how dispersal limitation, microhabitat heterogeneity, and competition interact to sustain diversity.

This project will not only advance fundamental ecological theory but also provide a predictive tool for conservation by identifying the spatial thresholds and landscape configurations needed to sustain biodiversity in one of the world’s most threatened forest types.

The project is led by Principal Investigator Senior Professor Sisira Ediriweera (Faculty of Applied Sciences, Uva Wellassa University) and Dr. habil. Thorsten Wiegand (Department of Ecological Modelling, UFZ, Germany). Mr Janith Piumal serves as a Research Assistant.

The Staff Development Centre (SDC) of Uva Wellassa University successfully conducted a practical workshop on SLASA and HRS software for Library and Administrative staff.

The session was conducted by Mr. Harsha Balasooriya, Senior Assistant Librarian, The Open University of Sri Lanka, and Developer of SLASA and HRS. The workshop focused on the practical application of SLASA for annual library stocktaking, including stock verification, identification of missing and misplaced items, shelving accuracy, and collection management.

A total of 34 participants took part in the programme and engaged in hands-on training on the stocktaking workflow. The participants were also introduced to HRS software as a tool for enhancing routine library technical work and operational efficiency.

The programme received positive feedback from participants and university officials, with interest expressed in further training and continued technical support for the effective implementation of these systems.

The workshop was organized by the Staff Development Centre, Uva Wellassa University in Collaboration with UWU Library, as part of its continuing efforts to enhance the professional and technological competencies of university staff. The valuable contributions and active involvement of the SDC staff and the Library staff played a significant role in ensuring the smooth and successful conduct of the workshop.

QUALIFICATIONS:

Candidates who have a,

1. B.B.M. or B.Sc. Special degree or equivalent in the relevant field with a First Class or Second Class (Upper Division) Honors from a recognized University/ HEI

OR

2. B.B.M. or B.Sc. Special degree or equivalent in the relevant field with a Second Class (Lower Division) Honors from a recognized University/ HEI

OR

3. (a) A Degree with specialization in the relevant field without Honours or any other degree with at least Second Class Honours,AND

[*One credit considered per course unit/module should be in accordance with the Sri Lanka Qualifications Framework (SLQF)]

SALARY SCALE:

Rs. 85,305/- per month and allowance applicable to the post.

NOTES:

Candidates are required to make a presentation before the Selection Committee in order to prove their teaching ability as Temporary Lecturers. (UGC Cir. 935)

METHOD OF RECRUITMENT:

The candidates are invited to present at Interview with the following documents and copies of them.

1. National Identity Card
2. All relevant Academic / Professional Certificates (originals and copies)
3. Curriculum Vitae and Reference Letters
4. Research Publications (If any)

DEADLINE TO SUBMIT APPLICATIONS: 30th September 2026.

Applications should be e- mail to dts@uwu.ac.lk For more details, Contact Head, Department of Tourism Studies, Uva Wellassa University (T.P. 055-2226167) All the appointments are for a period of one year. Uva Wellassa University reserves the right to select the candidates.