ASEF Fellow Nikiša Plešec on a Research Visit at University of Cincinnati

Nikiša Plešec, an ASEF Junior Fellow from the 2025 generation, recently completed a four-week research visit at the Physics Department of the University of Cincinnati under the mentorship of Dr. Jure Zupan.

During her stay, she worked on two projects in theoretical particle physics. The first focused on how future wakefield colliders might reveal rare processes where particles change flavor, such as a muon transforming into an electron. For this project, she learned how to use FeynRules to build models and generate particle interaction rules, and then ran simulations in MadGraph. The second project involved studying extensions of the Higgs model that include an axion field, a field often linked to dark matter. The team started with a simple version but found the bounds to be very strong, so they turned to a more complex two Higgs doublet model, which might make these bounds looser. Although these two projects are still ongoing, they gave her a valuable opportunity to expand her knowledge of physics beyond the Standard Model.

Outside of research, Nikiša enjoyed exploring Cincinnati and connecting with new people. Together with colleagues from the department, she visited the zoo, went to karaoke and the movies, and spent time in Burnet Woods. Her Airbnb host introduced her to some very American experiences, such as a Renaissance fair and a baseball game. Every Friday morning, she also joined the Physics Department’s pancake gatherings, which were a wonderful way to meet PhD students.

Overall, the visit was an inspiring experience for Nikiša. She gained new skills, broadened her theoretical understanding, and had the chance to connect with people from different backgrounds. She is very grateful to ASEF for making this opportunity possible, and to Dr. Zupan for his mentorship and support throughout her visit.

Photo: personal archive