Bio
I am an experimental particle physicist specialising in low-background, noble liquid dark matter direct detection. Dark matter physics is an exciting and ever-accelerating field; the discovery of dark matter is pivotal in helping us to answer the biggest mysteries in modern day particle physics, as well as understanding the origin of our Universe.
I currently work on two dark matter experiments, DarkSide-20k and QUEST-DMC, which use liquid argon and liquid helium respectively as their detection media. During my PhD, I worked on the DEAP-3600 experiment, another liquid argon dark matter detector. My expertise lies in statistical data analyses, data acquisition, noble liquid scintillation physics, and in quantum photon sensors. My current work involves: optimisation of the data acquisition system for the DarkSide-20k outer detector; characterisation of Silicon Photomultiplier (SiPM) photon sensors; devising data analysis strategies and techniques for QUEST-DMC data; and the design and implementation of a photon detector capable of operating at ultra-low temperatures for QUEST-DMC.
I have held several roles of responsibility, including but not limited to run co-ordinator/ analysis working group convener/ data acquisition expert roles. I am also an advocate for outreach; in particular, as a female scientist, I strive to use my platform to encourage young women to pursue careers in STEM subjects.