Field: Experimental Particle Physics

Research Areas:

My research focuses on experimental high-energy particle physics, with an emphasis on precision measurements and searches for rare processes at the Large Hadron Collider at CERN. I am a member of the ATLAS Collaboration, where my work centres on processes involving the top quark and electroweak bosons, including the associated production of a top quark with a W and Z boson (tWZ). These studies provide stringent tests of the Standard Model in complex final states.

A central aspect of my research is the development and application of advanced data analysis techniques, including machine learning methods, to enhance signal sensitivity. I also integrate modern data engineering practices—such as scalable data processing, workflow orchestration, and reproducible analysis pipelines—into particle physics analyses, enabling efficient handling of large datasets and systematic uncertainties.

Biography:

I was born and raised in Cape Town, where I completed all my academic training at the University of Cape Town. I obtained a BSc in Applied Mathematics and Physics, followed by a BSc Honours in Physics, and later an MSc and PhD in Experimental Particle Physics. I have been a member of the ATLAS Collaboration at CERN since my MSc studies, during which I worked on a precision measurement of the top quark mass—continuing this work through my doctoral research.

Following my PhD, I spent nearly two years in industry as a data engineer, working across roles as a Junior, Intermediate, and Cloud Data Engineer. This experience strengthened my expertise in large-scale data processing, distributed systems, and cloud-based data platforms, complementing my background in scientific computing and analysis.

I returned to academia in February 2025 as a lecturer in the Department of Physics at the University of Cape Town. My current work brings together particle physics, machine learning, and data engineering, with a focus on developing modern, scalable approaches to analyzing complex datasets from the Large Hadron Collider.

Teaching

• PHY1025F: Physics for Health Science Students

• PHY1031F: General Physics A

• PHY1032S: General Physics B

• PHY4000W: BSc (Honours) Physics

Roles:

• PHY1031F Course Convener
• Physics Department Website Manager
• ATLAS Collaboration Alignment Subgroup Convener