Himali Jayathilake joined the Chemistry Department of Mount Holyoke College in fall 2008 after receiving her Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry. Since then, she has taught courses in general and physical chemistry with associated laboratory components. Himali is one of the first instructors to offer the summer general chemistry courses with the associated laboratory component at Mount Holyoke College. She enjoys the close interaction with her students and works to create a rich learning experience for everyone in her courses.
In addition to teaching, Himali’s scientific research focuses on synthesis, characterization and assembly of metal nanoparticles. Some of the student independent research projects involve optimizing experimental conditions to create large arrays of two dimensional assemblies of nanoparticles and using surfactants as spacers in two dimensional assemblies of nanospheres or nanorods.
Education
- Ph.D., Wayne State University
- B.A., University of Peradeniya
