Richa Sharma
University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez
Statement
I’m a CMS postdoc at the University of Puerto Rico-Mayagüez. I first came to Fermilab in 2010 as a Ph.D. student from Panjab University, India, working on the MINOS experiment. Fermilab has since played a pivotal role in my scientific journey, and as a postdoc, I’ve spent over a year at the lab, deeply involved in both research and community initiatives.
Beyond my research, I’ve served on the USCMS Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee, working to promote a more inclusive and supportive environment within the collaboration. I also regularly conduct training workshops through HSF/IRIS-HEP, helping to equip fellow researchers with the tools and skills necessary for success in this field.
Fermilab is home to a diverse and dynamic community of researchers, and through my time onsite, I’ve gained valuable insights into the needs and expectations of lab visitors. As a member of the User’s Executive Committee (UEC) I will be committed to representing early-career scientists, international users, and both on-site and off-site collaborators. Having worked remotely myself, I understand the challenges of accessing lab resources and navigating user engagement from a distance. I will work to address user concerns and ensure that all researchers have the resources they need to thrive.
Additionally, I’m passionate about enhancing public engagement at Fermilab by promoting arts, cultural, and community outreach programs. For years, we have shared the beauty of our science with the outside community, earning their invaluable support. I believe it’s essential to nurture and strengthen this relationship, and I see this as an area where the UEC can take an active role.