Raghda is a PhD student working at the intersection of nuclear theory and dark matter (DM) direct detection research. Direct detection experiments aim to observe a signal emitted from the scattering of a DM particle off nuclei in the detector target material. As such, theoretical models require knowledge of the structure and properties of the nuclei involved. Raghda's research focuses on obtaining the nuclear form factors required for DM-nucleus elastic scattering rate calculations, as well as quantifying the uncertainties arising from nuclear structure modelling. This is completed with a focus on the spherical shell model, applied to a wide range of isotopes/nuclei of interest to direct detection searches. This research area is unique, in that it is directly applicable to DM experimental analysis, as well as to collaborations with particle theorists and nuclear experimentalists. With the support of the 2023 ANU Robert and Helen Crompton Travel Award she visited the University of Toronto for several months to collaborate with DM experimentalists on applications of the nuclear form factors to the SuperCDMS experiment, bridging experiment and theory. She has also collaborated with particle theorists at the University of Melbourne on applications to coherent elastic neutrino-nucleus scattering (CEvNS). Her future research interests include working on improved/new nuclear modelling and its impacts on elastic scattering processes; nuclear uncertainty quantification of inelastic DM-nucleus process; as well as collaborating with nuclear experimentalists on constraining observables relevant for DM direct detection searches. 

Raghda is also interested in outreach and science communication, with a focus on bridging the gap between art and science. She is also passionate about advancing and advocating for the status of women and minorities in science.

2020     Honours in Theoretical Physics, UNSW.   Grade: First Class. 

2016-2019    Bachelor of Advanced Science (Honours)/ Bachelor of Fine Arts, UNSW.   Majors: Physics and Painting.

2023  ANU Robert and Helen Crompton Travel Award.  Received based on academic achievement and outreach/community service. Funded 3 month research collaboration trip to University of Toronto.

2022  ANU John Carver Seminar Series - Dean’s Prize & People’s Choice Awards. Received two awards for engaging 15 minute presentation.

2022  ANU Physics Director’s School Service (Individual) Award. Received for public engagement efforts to fuse expertise in art and science.

2021  Outreach and Impact Award. Received for science-art outreach efforts. Awarded by ARC Centre of Excellence for Dark Matter Particle Physics.

2019  UNSW Science Student Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Award. Six students were recognised for their contributions to equity, diversity and inclusion through UNSW Science’s inaugural Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) student awards.