Jessica Fry, a fifth-year physics PhD candidate at MIT's Laboratory for Nuclear Science, is on a mission to uncover the elusive dark matter that constitutes nearly 85% of the universe's mass. Her journey is a testament to her passion for science and her unique approach to problem-solving. Fry's fascination with science began early, sparked by a high school project where she replicated a 1960s experiment using SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory equipment. This experience ignited her curiosity, allowing her to explore the interplay between time, space, and tangible objects.
Fry's academic journey is a fascinating blend of diverse interests. She double-majored in physics and theater and performance studies at Stanford University, demonstrating her commitment to both academic disciplines. During her time at Stanford, she juggled a Broadway audition with midterm exams and a summer research position at CERN, showcasing her ability to manage multiple pursuits simultaneously.
However, Fry's passion for dance led her to a crossroads. She struggled to reconcile her love for dance as an art form with the challenges it posed to her confidence and sense of self. This realization prompted her to return to Stanford to finish her degrees and pursue a career in physics. Her decision to join MIT's Laboratory for Nuclear Science was influenced by the institution's size and the buzz of scientific energy it exuded.
Fry's current research focuses on the axion, a theoretical particle that could explain dark matter. She is working on two experiments, ABRACADABRA and DMRadio, to detect axions. These experiments rely on the axion's unique properties, such as its ultralight nature and gravitational clustering, to produce a faint, oscillating electric current in the presence of a strong magnetic field.
Despite the challenges, Fry remains optimistic. She believes that the detection of dark matter is imminent and that her approach is among the most promising in the field. Her collaboration with Professor Lindley Winslow, a member of the Neutrino and Dark Matter Group, further reinforces her dedication to the pursuit of knowledge. Winslow's own journey, marked by a choice between two great passions, resonates with Fry's experiences.
Fry's dedication to her work is evident in her recognition on the Forbes 30 Under 30 Science 2026 list. She is focused on completing her data analysis and bringing the DMRadio detector to fruition. Her future plans include postdoctoral positions, potentially leading her own lab group, and the development of new detectors. Fry's determination and passion for physics are driving forces behind her success, and she remains confident that her efforts will contribute to a groundbreaking discovery in the field of dark matter.
