His research interests are advanced optical and laser-based diagnostics for gas turbine combustion and propulsion applications, as well as reacting and non-reacting flow studies. He has published nearly 50 peer-reviewed journal articles in these areas. Prior to joining Texas A&M, he was a senior research scientist and contractor at the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL-WPAFB), and completed a postdoctoral term at the Combustion Research Facility at Sandia National Laboratories, CA. Kulatilaka is active in numerous professional organizations, including ASME (fellow), AIAA (associate fellow), OSA (senior member), The Combustion Institute (board member–CSS), APS and American Society for Engineering Education (ASEE). He has received several awards for outstanding technical contributions and service.