ICAPS 2025 — Plenary Sessions
Date: Friday, 10 October 2025
Time: 10.30 a.m. (all tracks)
Venue: Faculty of Science, University of Kelaniya
Physical Sciences
Speaker: Dr Vajira Manathunga — Associate Professor, Middle Tennessee State University, USA
Topic: Applications of Large Language Models in Actuarial Science
Room: A7 201
Join via Zoom: https://tinyurl.com/Y5M6E56T
Abstract:
This presentation explores emerging applications of large language models (LLMs) within the field of actuarial science. While LLMs have rapidly become indispensable tools across a wide range of disciplines, their adoption in actuarial practice has been comparatively cautious, largely due to regulatory and professional constraints. Such conservatism, however, raises the risk that actuaries may lag behind other professions in leveraging these transformative technologies. In this talk, we illustrate several use cases where LLMs can complement and enhance established actuarial techniques. Particular attention is given to the ability of modern LLMs to process and structure unstructured text data, thereby expanding the analytical toolkit available to actuaries. These applications underscore the potential of LLMs not as replacements for traditional methods, but as powerful augmentations that can enrich actuarial practice and support innovation in the profession.
Biological Sciences
Speaker: Dr Ru Somaweera — Practice Lead for Ecology Principal Scientist, Stantec; Adjunct Associate Professor, Murdoch University; National Geographic Explorer
Topic: Beyond Discovery: Translating Science into Solutions
Room: Boardroom B1 350, Faculty of Science, UoK
Abstract: So What? Translating Science into Solutions
Science has the power to inspire wonder, but its true impact lies in shaping solutions. This talk follows five remarkable stories, each rooted in years of research and each ending in real-world change. From tracking crocodiles in Australia’s remote outback to chasing elusive sea snakes in the deep ocean, and from the ancient behaviors of reptiles to the cutting-edge promise of eDNA, these journeys show how pure science can transform into applied innovation. Blending adventure, discovery, and conservation impact, the talk highlights how knowledge becomes action, and why translating science is essential for both biodiversity and people.
Multidisciplinary Research
Speaker: Professor Dhanushka Udayanga — Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology
Topic: Cross-talks Between Biotechnology, Materials Science, and Engineering: Harnessing the Potential of Fungal Mycelium
Room: B1 343
Abstract:
Software Intensive Systems
Speaker: Dr Ajith A. Pasqual — Senior Lecturer, University of Moratuwa
Topic: Challenges in building (hard) real-time high performance software systems
Room: A8 103
Abstract: There are software systems that need to operate at nano to micro second scale for general public to have a higher quality of experience (QoE) with their daily interactions with the Internet - be they for leisure or business purposes. What makes those software systems work? What would be the consequences of not meeting the performance targets?
Today we are in an AI driven world, with generative AI coming sooner than later, where entire systems being built by AI is no longer a prediction but a reality. Building a software intensive system is not just about the expertise in software engineering but also having a deep understanding of how the hardware works to give the extra performance boost.
Another set of systems that require such hardware/software interactions are referred to as Software Defined X (SDX) where X is traditionally a field dominated by hardware such as Networking and Radio. E.g. Software Defined Networking or Software Defined Radio. Building of such systems start with deep understanding of the problem and how hardware/software interact to provide the solution. In the AI centric world such deep insights and problem solving abilities will be immensely valued for anyone working in the area of software engineering.
Enquiries: icaps@kln.ac.lk
Website: conf.kln.ac.lk/icaps
Conference Chair: Dr Upeksha Perera — +94 76 647 5556
Conference Secretary: Dr Mihiri De Silva — +94 77 900 6837
