Q&A with Randima Bandara

“I believe this program will help me connect the dots of my life, uniting my technical, research, and business experience to create impactful healthcare innovations.”

Randima Bandara

MSc Candidate, Medical Biophysics 

What project are you working on?

I am a first-year trainee in the Master’s in Medical Biophysics program, pursuing a thesis-based degree. I am working full-time on developing an innovative solution to address a key requirement in the medical imaging field. My research focuses on enhancing ultrasound imaging -one of the most important diagnostic technologies- by making it more accessible, efficient, and user-friendly through a frugal innovation approach.

What problem(s) are you solving?

Ultrasound scanning is highly operator-dependent, often causing variability and operational challenges. To address this, we are developing a freehand, trackerless ultrasound system that makes scanning user-independent while eliminating the need for external tracking devices. The system can generate a 3D model of the scanned area, reducing cognitive load during interpretation. Our approach allows conventional ultrasound devices to be upgraded into adaptable 3D scanning platforms, suitable for low-resource settings with limited human expertise and technological infrastructure. Designed within a frugal development framework, the system delivers essential performance at a significantly reduced cost, making advanced ultrasound more accessible and user-friendly.

What brought you to this research?

With a background in Science and a Medical Physics, I have always been passionate about applying physics to healthcare innovation. Over the past decade, I have worked in the additive manufacturing industry, supporting companies, researchers, and manufacturers in achieving their innovation and digital transformation goals. My studies in marketing have enhanced my ability to translate technology into practical, market-ready solutions. I believe this program will help me connect the dots of my life, uniting my technical, research, and business experience to create impactful healthcare innovations. Although focused on Africa, I can relate, as Sri Lanka (my home country) faces similar needs.