Jefferson Lab photo by Lindsay Cunningham
Jayendrika Tiskumara Earns 40 Under 40 Award from Old Dominion University
NEWPORT NEWS, VA—Born into a family with strong science roots, Jayendrika Tiskumara always knew she had a deep love for science. What she didn't know was how that love, along with her passion and perseverance, would lead her to the U.S. Department of Energy's Thomas Jefferson National Accelerator Facility.
Tiskumara began her academic journey in her native country of Sri Lanka, studying physics as an undergraduate. Limited research opportunities in materials science prompted her to move to the United States in 2014 to pursue a Ph.D. at Old Dominion University (ODU), where she studied alongside her sister.
Established in partnership with Jefferson Lab, the Center for Accelerator Science at ODU opened the door for Tiskumara to delve into the study of superconducting radiofrequency (SRF) accelerating structures. These structures are the core components that power particle accelerators, enabling them to achieve high energies and intensities.
The center provides diverse research opportunities for outstanding students to advance the sciences and technologies of particle accelerators and light sources for use in basic science, applied science and industry. Participants have the unique opportunity to access facilities and equipment at a national lab and the university.
During her graduate studies, Tiskumara explored thin films and superconducting materials for SRF cavities. This hands-on experience shaped and guided her professional path from research and development to practical application.
Beyond her academic achievements, Tiskumara actively engaged with the campus community, participating in international student groups and championing diversity in STEM.
Her efforts and contributions to diversity in the classroom and within the ODU community led to her being named a “John R. Broderick Diversity Champion Award” recipient in 2017.
As a minority in STEM and an international student, Tiskumara is a strong advocate for mentorship and inclusion in academic and professional environments.
"Mentorship is so important and I see it everywhere at Jefferson Lab," she said. “My supervisors and colleagues are always willing to help with information and ideas and find ways to assist with my work when needed."
The diverse and collaborative environment at Jefferson Lab nurtured her professional growth. It allowed her the opportunity to communicate with many different people and made her more comfortable asking for help, an experience that drove her desire to join Jefferson Lab as an RF engineer in 2023.
As a member of the Low-level RF (LLRF) team in the RF Group, Tiskumara is responsible for ensuring the proper operation of the electron accelerator. This role requires deep knowledge of accelerator physics, RF engineering and SRF technology. Additionally, she is developing tools to diagnose electron beam instabilities. Her work on this project was presented during the IPAC'24 - 15th International Particle Accelerator Conference.
"JLab is a very diverse workplace, with researchers and staff from all over the world. You will always hear different languages being spoken around the lab,“ she said. "I didn't see this much diversity in Sri Lanka."
In 2024, the ODU Alumni Association named Tiskumara one of its 40 Under 40 Recognition Program Class of 2024, spotlighting her as a trailblazer in the field who serves with passion and innovation.
Tiskumara advises anyone considering a career in STEM to not be afraid.
"Get involved and learn from everyone you can," she said.
Contact Michelle Alvarez, Jefferson Lab Communications Office, malvarez@jlab.org