Associate Professor of Statistics · Appalachian State University
I am a statistician, educator, and researcher whose work centers on data science, analytics, statistical modeling, and applied statistical methods. I enjoy connecting statistical theory and computation with real-world problems and helping students develop the skills to make sense of data.
I am an Associate Professor in the Department of Mathematical Sciences at Appalachian State University. I joined Appalachian State in 2017 and was promoted to Associate Professor in 2024.
I received my Ph.D. in Mathematics from the Department of Mathematics at Southern Illinois University Carbondale in August 2017.
My academic work combines research, teaching, statistical computing, and interdisciplinary collaboration. I am particularly interested in problems where modern data-analytic methods can be used to improve prediction, inference, and decision-making.
My research interests broadly fall within data science and analytics, with particular interests in statistical modeling, predictive methods, variable selection, bootstrap methods, and machine learning.
I teach courses in statistics, statistical learning, regression, probability, and data analysis. I enjoy helping students connect statistical ideas with computation and meaningful applications.
I value interdisciplinary collaboration, student mentorship, curriculum development, and service that strengthens statistics and data science education.
Outside of academic work, I enjoy spending time with my family and exploring the outdoors together. Camping, biking, hiking, visiting waterfalls, and discovering new places in the Blue Ridge Mountains are some of the ways I enjoy stepping away from work and spending time with my family.
I am originally from Sri Lanka, which remains an important part of my background and identity. I enjoy returning when possible and sharing its culture, places, and traditions with my family.