Lahiru Gunasekara

Video credits: Jethro Martin (Director/editor/cinematographer), Billy Wong (Cinematographer) from Media Productions, University of Auckland.

“One of the first countries I got to know as a child was New Zealand, because Anchor is one of the most established brands in Sri Lanka. After doing my masters I was looking for a country to pursue my PhD in, and New Zealand was the very first country that came to mind. The University of Auckland, the best university in New Zealand, had the superviser that best suited me.”

“As an international PhD student, I was at first scared to come to an unknown country, but my perception changed from the moment I landed at Auckland Airport. The people were really friendly from day one and that made me feel very welcome. It has been the same at university – on my first day, all the academics that I met were very caring and kind. Then I met a really nice group of friends who I always hang out with. So my experience as a PhD candidate has been extremely pleasant in New Zealand.”

“My research falls into the theme of circular economy, which is about taking used products back from consumers to recycle them. We live in a society where consumption is often followed by disposal, leading to environmental harm and the waste of valuable resources that could be reused. Recognising this issue, businesses are introducing take-back programmes to recover value from products that would otherwise become waste. However, many find it a challenging endeavour. Using mathematical modelling as the methodology, my research focused on optimising these take-back operations and enhancing their appeal, encouraging more businesses to be involved in such programmes.

“Auckland and New Zealand are full of amazing, beautiful places, which has highlighted for me the importance of my research. I appreciate being a part of preserving that nature for future generations.”

“I have had so many highlights. These included working with two leading businesses in New Zealand to optimise their used product take-back programmes; publishing articles in two top-ranked journals; participating in Production and Operations Management Society (POMS) 2023 in Paris; and being a panellist for several local and international academic discussions.”

“I was fortunate to have two exceptional PhD supervisers who went above and beyond from the very beginning, even welcoming me at the airport when I first arrived in New Zealand. Throughout my PhD journey, they provided invaluable insights and constructive feedback that shaped my research. Their unwavering encouragement, thoughtful guidance and commitment to academic excellence were instrumental in my development as a researcher. More than that, their optimism, generosity and kindness set a powerful example that inspired me not just academically but as a human being.”

“Choose your supervisers carefully – you'll be working together for 3-5 years. While their research area matters, it's just one factor to consider. Before applying for PhD admission, research their supervision style, expectations and approach by speaking with their current and former students. This due diligence will help ensure a more rewarding PhD journey.

“Also, remember that a PhD is not an easy journey; impostor syndrome is natural, but your perseverance will get you your doctorate at the end of the day.”