Prof. Udayangani Kulatunga | Construction – Professor in Building Economics at University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka.
Udayangani Kulatunga is a distinguished academic with extensive expertise in the field of Building Economics. She holds the position of Professor in Building Economics at the University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, where she has been serving since December 2018. Her research interests span across areas such as performance measurement in construction research and development, technology-enhanced stakeholder collaboration, and post-disaster resettlement strategies. Udayangani is an active participant in international research collaborations and has played a pivotal role in numerous research projects and initiatives both in Sri Lanka and globally. With a career that includes significant roles in teaching, research, and program development, Udayangani is recognized for her contributions to both academia and the built environment sector.
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Education
Udayangani Kulatunga completed her PhD at the University of Salford, UK, in May 2008, with a focus on the influence of performance measurement on construction research and development. Her academic journey also includes a BSc (First Class Honours) in Quantity Surveying from the University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, which she completed in December 2002. In addition to her academic qualifications, she holds professional qualifications, including Fellowship status with the Higher Education Academy (UK) and a Postgraduate Certificate in Academic Practice from the University of Salford, UK, obtained in 2012.
Experience
Udayangani has had a distinguished academic career, with over two decades of experience in the field of Building Economics. Before becoming a Professor at the University of Moratuwa, she held various teaching and leadership positions, including Reader (Associate Professor) at the University of Salford, UK, and Senior Lecturer at both the University of Moratuwa and University of Salford. Throughout her career, she has been responsible for teaching and supervising students across a range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, particularly in Quantity Surveying, Project Management, and Disaster Resilience. Her experience extends beyond teaching, having served in leadership roles such as Director of the Centre for Disaster Risk Reduction and Programme Director for the BSc (Hons) Quantity Surveying program at the University of Salford.
Research Interests
Udayangani’s research interests are broad and impactful, with a particular focus on performance measurement within the construction industry, post-disaster recovery strategies, and the application of technology in the built environment. She has led multiple international collaborative research projects, including the ENSEMBLE project focused on resilience and social cohesion, and the TRANSCEND project aimed at supporting risk-sensitive urban development. She has also conducted studies on the professional identity crisis in Quantity Surveying and the adaptability of quantity surveyors to technological advances, exploring both the challenges and opportunities presented by these developments.
Awards
Udayangani Kulatunga has been recognized for her academic achievements and contributions to the field of Building Economics. She is a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (UK), which underscores her commitment to teaching excellence and her contribution to the development of higher education. She has also received various research grants and awards, including funding for several high-profile research projects. Additionally, her ongoing leadership in academic governance, including serving as Chairperson for the University of Moratuwa’s Research Week, demonstrates her commitment to the advancement of research in her field.
Publications
Udayangani, U. “Reforming Legal and Regulatory Structure of Public Private Partnerships in Sri Lanka,” Built Environment Project and Asset Management (Accepted for publication) 📘
Udayangani, U. “Quantity Surveyors’ Adaptability to Technology: The Last Frontiers of Job Displacement Challenge,” Built Environment Sri Lanka, 14(1) 📖
Udayangani, U. (2024) – “Competency Requirements of Quantity Surveyors for International Opportunities: Case of Fresh Graduates from Sri Lanka,” Bhúmi, The Planning Research Journal, Vol.11, Issue.01 📰
Udayangani, U. (2024) – “Reconceptualising Urban Liveability: A Quantitative Assessment of Inhabitant Needs in Colombo, Sri Lanka,” URBAN DESIGN International, pp1-17 🏙️
Udayangani, U.; Eranga, I. (2024) – “Significance of Critical Infrastructure Development in Post-Disaster Resettlement in Sri Lanka,” International Journal of Construction Management, pp1-10 🏗️
Udayangani, U. (2024) – “Application of Lean Principles for Building Refurbishment Projects in Sri Lanka,” Built Environment Project and Asset Management 🏢
Udayangani, U. (2024) – “Applicability of Electronic Document Management System (EDMS) for the Cost Management of Mega Construction Projects in Sri Lanka,” Journal of Financial Management of Property and Construction, Vol. 29 No. 2, pp. 314-330.📚
Conclusion
Professor Udayangani Kulatunga’s academic and professional journey reflects her dedication to advancing the field of Building Economics through her research, teaching, and leadership roles. Her contributions extend to significant improvements in the practice of Quantity Surveying, particularly with respect to technological integration and disaster resilience. With numerous successful research projects, publications, and awards, Udayangani is a distinguished academic whose work has greatly enriched both the academic community and the built environment sector globally.