This Is Me
​“Research is not only about discovering knowledge, but about honoring the voices and experiences that shape our world.”
I am Sithuni Mimasha, a PhD student in Geospatial and Environmental Analysis in the Department of Geography at Virginia Tech, USA. My research focuses on Indigenous Peoples, with an emphasis on understanding their landscapes, knowledge systems, and lived experiences through geospatial and environmental approaches. Through my work, I aim to contribute to research that is ethical, inclusive, and grounded in respect for Indigenous communities.
My Academic Journey
“Working across disciplines allows me to bridge theory, practice, and lived experience in both research and teaching.”
I hold a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Technology and Management from the University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, where I specialized in Agricultural Economics and Business Management. This training provided me with a strong foundation in economic systems, resource management, and development-oriented thinking.
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I later earned a Master of Science in Geography from Virginia Tech, where I further developed my interests in spatial analysis, environmental studies, and human–environment relationships.
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My long-term career goal is to pursue a career in academia, with a focus on research and teaching, contributing to interdisciplinary scholarship and inclusive education.
My Teaching Experience
I have experience teaching and supporting graduate and undergraduate students across geography, sustainability, and human–environment interactions, with a strong emphasis on inclusive, engaging, and applied learning.
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In Fall 2025, I served as a Co-Instructor for the graduate-level course Qualitative Methods and Ethics in Geography at Virginia Tech. In this role, I contributed to course instruction, facilitated class discussions on ethical research practices, and supported student training in qualitative research methodologies.
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In addition to my role as Co-Instructor, I have served as a Graduate Teaching Assistant for several undergraduate courses in the Department of Geography at Virginia Tech. I supported Practicing Sustainability (GEOG 4444) by leading weekly grading and assessment for classes of more than 25 students, assisting with assignments and project-based learning activities. I also worked as a teaching assistant for Geography of Wine (GEOG 4054), where I supported instruction, managed grading for over 120 students, and assisted with student communication and course logistics. In addition, I assisted with Introduction to Human Geography (GEOG 1004), contributing to grading and student support for large enrollment courses.
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Previously, I served as a Lecturer at the University of Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, where I taught undergraduate courses between 2021 and 2022. My responsibilities included preparing and delivering lectures, developing teaching and assessment materials, and evaluating student performance. The courses I taught covered topics such as Socio-Economic Aspects of Natural Resource Management, Development Economics, Project Analysis, Quantitative Techniques, and Entrepreneurship.​
My Teaching Philosophy
Student-Centered Learning
"I design learning experiences that place students’ voices, curiosity, and growth at the center of the classroom".
Active Engagement
“I encourage learning through discussion, participation, and real-world application rather than passive instruction.”
Respectful Classrooms
“I strive to create classroom spaces grounded in respect, inclusion, and mutual understanding.”