Astrophysicist, 10th President of the California Institute of Technology, Former Provost & Chief Academic Officer at Johns Hopkins University & Awarded the Rockefeller Foundation Bellagio Center Residency
Ray Jayawardhana’s Biography:
Ray Jayawardhana is an internationally respected astrophysicist, science communicator and academic leader whose career has been defined by advancing humanity’s understanding of the universe. Best known for his pioneering research into the formation of stars, planetary systems and worlds beyond our solar system, he has combined scientific excellence with a rare ability to make complex ideas accessible to broad audiences. His work has helped shape modern astronomy while inspiring public curiosity about discovery and innovation. As the incoming President of the California Institute of Technology, one of the world’s leading science and engineering institutions, Ray brings a unique perspective on leadership, exploration and the future of research, making him a highly sought-after keynote speaker for organisations seeking insight into science, education and innovation.
Ray’s academic journey began at Yale University, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Astronomy and Physics. He continued his studies at Harvard University, completing a PhD in Astronomy with research focused on circumstellar dust and protostars. Early in his career, he co-led the team that discovered the dusty debris disk surrounding the young star HR 4796, a breakthrough that contributed significantly to understanding planetary system formation. He later became a Canada Research Chair in Observational Astrophysics at the University of Toronto and progressed into senior academic leadership roles. His appointments as Dean of Science at York University, Harold Tanner Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Cornell University and Provost and Chief Academic Officer at Johns Hopkins University demonstrated his ability to lead major institutions through periods of growth and transformation before his selection to lead Caltech.
Throughout his career, Ray has been recognised with some of the most prestigious honours in science and science communication. He received the Vainu Bappu Gold Medal from the Astronomical Society of India, the Rutherford Memorial Medal in Physics from the Royal Society of Canada, a Guggenheim Fellowship in the Natural Sciences and Canada’s Top 40 Under 40 award. His achievements in public engagement earned him the Dwight Nicholson Medal for Outreach from the American Physical Society and the Carl Sagan Medal from the American Astronomical Society. He was also awarded a Rockefeller Foundation Bellagio Center Residency, recognising both his academic accomplishments and creative contributions to public understanding of science.
Why Hire Ray Jayawardhana?
Ray is also an acclaimed author whose book ‘Strange New Worlds: The Search for Alien Planets and Life Beyond Our Solar System’ received international praise and won the Science Writers & Communicators of Canada Book Award. His ability to connect cutting edge research with compelling storytelling makes him an exceptional keynote speaker. Audiences benefit from first hand insights into scientific discovery, leadership, innovation and the search for knowledge. Drawing on experience leading world class universities and communicating science to global audiences, Ray delivers thought provoking presentations that inspire curiosity, encourage forward thinking and demonstrate how exploration and evidence based decision making can drive progress in every field.
Ray Jayawardhana’s Career Highlights:
Here are some of the key milestones that define Ray Jayawardhana’s remarkable career:
- 2026 – Appointed as the 10th President of the California Institute of Technology (Caltech), making history as the school’s next institutional leader
- 2023 – Appointed Provost and Chief Academic Officer at Johns Hopkins University
- 2023 – Awarded the prestigious Rockefeller Foundation Bellagio Center Residency for academic and creative achievement
- 2020 – Awarded the Carl Sagan Medal by the American Astronomical Society for outstanding public communication in planetary science
- 2018 – Appointed the Harold Tanner Dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Cornell University
- 2018 – Received the Dwight Nicholson Medal for Outreach from the American Physical Society
- 2014 – Appointed Dean of Science at York University in Canada
- 2014 – Awarded a prestigious Guggenheim Fellowship in the Natural Sciences category
- 2013 – Awarded the Rutherford Memorial Medal in Physics by the Royal Society of Canada
- 2013 – Won the Science Writers & Communicators of Canada Book Award for his writing
- 2011 – Published his internationally acclaimed popular science book, ‘Strange New Worlds: The Search for Alien Planets and Life Beyond Our Solar System’
Videos
Ray Jayawardhana’s Official Keynote Speaking Videos & Showreel:
Testimonials
“Ray Jayawardhana is an inspiring keynote speaker who combines groundbreaking expertise in astrophysics with extensive experience leading some of the world’s most prestigious academic institutions. His engaging storytelling, insights into innovation and discovery, and ability to make complex scientific ideas accessible leave audiences motivated to think bigger, embrace curiosity and navigate change with confidence.” – David Simms
Speaking Topics
Ray Jayawardhana‘s Official Keynote Topics:
- The Exoplanet Revolution: Tracking the rapid shift from knowing only our solar system to discovering thousands of planets orbiting other stars
- The Planet-Hunting Toolkit: Explaining the ingenious methods used by astronomers, including measuring stellar wobbles, observing transits, and utilising direct imaging via space telescopes
- The Hunt for Earth Twins: Discussing the parameters of the “Goldilocks zone” and the atmospheric biosignatures that could soon confirm extraterrestrial life
How Much Does Ray Jayawardhana Cost to Hire?
How Much Does it Cost to Hire Ray Jayawardhana?
Ray Jayawardhana’s speaking fees typically reflect her exceptional career and international demand. Engagements vary depending on location, format, and duration; keynote appearances, conferences, and international events may command higher fees due to travel and preparation requirements.