Lumala Nelum Perera
Assistant Professor of Chemistry
Meet Professor Perera
Years at Knox: 2025 to present
Dr. Lumala Nelum Perera holds a BS. specialized in Chemistry from the University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka, and a PhD in Chemistry from New Mexico Tech. Dr. Perera brings a dynamic background that includes research experience as a research scientist at FluidiSpec and as a postdoctoral fellow at the University of Pennsylvania.
With six years of experience teaching undergraduate Chemistry, she is dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment for students. Dr. Perera is also passionate about mentoring undergraduate researchers and aims to inspire the next generation of scientists. Her research focuses on Analytical Chemistry, specializing in microfluidic-based viral detection, spectroscopy, and microplastic analysis. She develops lab-on-a-chip systems integrated with acoustic waves, electroosmosis, and advanced spectroscopic techniques to enable rapid, sensitive, and cost-effective diagnostic tools. Additionally, she investigates the separation and chemical characterization of microplastics to understand their environmental and health impacts. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges Chemistry, Biology, and Environmental Science, creating opportunities for undergraduate student education and translational research. Whether in the classroom or the lab, Dr. Perera is dedicated to creating opportunities for students to learn and empowering them to make meaningful contributions to science.