# Postdoctoral Fellowship: MPS-Ascend: Looking for dark radiation: Utilizing Data and Theory

> **NSF 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Bagherian, Hengameh (MA) · $300,000

## Abstract

Current astrophysical observations indicate that visible matter constitutes only about 5% of the universe. The remaining 95% is attributed to the enigmatic dark sector, comprising dark energy and dark matter—components that remain largely unexplained. This project aims to address one of the most profound open questions in physics: understanding the fundamental properties of dark matter particles, including their interactions and masses. A particular focus will be on the hypothetical particle known as the axion, a well-motivated dark matter candidate.

To pursue this ambitious goal, Dr. Bagherian will integrate numerical calculations, computer simulations, and theoretical model building. The development and application of these tools are not only crucial for advancing our understanding of dark matter but also hold potential benefits across various areas of physics and related sciences. Moreover, as significant investments are being made in experimental efforts to find axions—such as haloscopes (e.g., ADMX), helioscopes (e.g., CAST, IAXO), light-shining-through-a-wall experiments, and spin-precession setups (e.g., CASPEr)—it is imperative to conduct thorough theoretical investigations of the axion particle. These studies will guide and interpret experimental searches, ensuring that national resources are effectively utilized in the quest to uncover the nature of dark matter. By advancing theoretical frameworks and computational techniques, this project contributes to the prog

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2503442
- **Awardee organization:** Bagherian, Hengameh (MA)
- **PI:** Hengameh Bagherian
- **Primary program:** 01002526DB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIPS
- **Estimated total:** $300,000
- **Funds obligated:** $300,000
- **Transaction type:** Fellowship Award
- **Period:** 08/15/2025 → 07/31/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2503442

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2503442, Postdoctoral Fellowship: MPS-Ascend: Looking for dark radiation: Utilizing Data and Theory. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2503442. Licensed CC0.

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