Associate Professor: School of Science
“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven” — Matthew 5:16
Growing up in a family surrounded by educators, Dr. Deshani Fernando was inspired from a young age to share knowledge and teach. Her passion for chemistry began to flourish during high school, thanks to an inspiring teacher. While many classmates found the subject challenging, it became a fascinating area of study for her. This interest led to the completion of a B.Sc. in Chemistry from the University of Kelaniya, Sri Lanka, in 2009.
After earning her undergraduate degree, Dr. Fernando worked as a Teaching Assistant at the University of Kelaniya from 2009 to 2010. During this time, she conducted analytical and physical chemistry laboratory classes for undergraduate students. In 2010, she joined the Sri Lanka Institute of Nanotechnology (SLINTEC) as a research scientist. Here, she participated in material chemistry research projects, advancing lab-scale research to the pilot plant level and gaining expertise in various analytical chemistry techniques. Additionally, she trained and guided new scientists and interns at SLINTEC.
In pursuit of a career as a chemistry professor, Dr. Fernando began a new journey at Oklahoma State University (OSU) in 2012 as a Graduate Teaching and Research Assistant in Chemistry. This role provided a solid foundation as an instructor, involving the conduction of chemistry laboratory classes, discussions, and tutoring sessions. As a Graduate Research Assistant, she mentored both undergraduate and graduate students in their research endeavors. Her doctoral research focused on the synthesis of nanoparticles, surface functionalization, characterization, property analysis, and cellular studies with cancer cells. This work culminated in the publication of three peer-reviewed research articles in reputable international journals and more than ten presentations at regional and national conferences.
Upon completing her Ph.D. in 2017, Dr. Fernando served as an Adjunct Professor of Chemistry at Oklahoma City Community College (OCCC) from January 2018 to December 2018. At OCCC, she taught General Chemistry I and the Survey of General, Organic, and Biochemistry courses to a diverse student body, gaining valuable experience. The teaching techniques honed as a graduate teaching assistant at OSU proved invaluable in this role.
While working as an Adjunct Professor at OCCC, Dr. Fernando also began a position as an Associate Professor of Chemistry at Mid-America Christian University (MACU). At MACU, she developed courses in General Chemistry (I & II), Organic Chemistry (I & II), and Principles of Biochemistry. Currently, Dr. Fernando serves as an advisor for biology students at MACU, guiding them to success in their studies and future career goals.
