NRF Women's Month 2026: Dr Raja Mchaalia

Every research journey starts with a question. This Women’s Month, the NRF celebrates women driven by curiosity — researchers whose questions, ideas and determination are expanding our understanding of the world around us. From exploring the unknown to deepening our existing knowledge, curiosity remains at the heart of discovery. We thank all participants for sharing their stories with us.

Dr Raja Mchaalia is a Postdoctoral Researcher in Telecommunication at ENIT – University of Tunis el Manar, Tunisia. She received NRF-SARAO funding for her postdoctoral position at the Carl and Emily Fuchs Institute of Microelectronics (CEFIM) at the University of Pretoria. Her research focuses on developing a smart climate monitoring platform.

How has your affiliation with the NRF impacted your studies/career?

I received funding from the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRF-SARAO) during 2023 to 2025 for my postdoctoral position at the Carl and Emily Fuchs Institute of Microelectronics (CEFIM), Faculty of Engineering, University of Pretoria.

This support played an important role in advancing my research career by providing me with the opportunity to strengthen my expertise in the Radio Frequency (RF) and microwave engineering fields, particularly in filter design, fabrication, and experimental characterisation for Radio Astronomy applications.

Through this funding, I gained valuable hands-on experience with advanced microwave measurement equipment and manufacturing technologies, including 3D printing and wire bonding techniques. It also enhanced my technical skills, research capacity, and confidence in addressing complex engineering challenges.

This fellowship significantly contributed to my professional development and established a strong foundation for my continued research activities

What is your research focus or area of expertise?

My research focuses on developing a smart climate monitoring platform that combines advanced antenna technology and artificial intelligence.

The project involves designing specialised antennas to detect very low-frequency electromagnetic signals known as Schumann resonances, which are natural signals generated in the Earth–ionosphere system. By analysing these signals using explainable artificial intelligence models, the aim is to better understand their relationship with climate variations and develop tools that can help predict and monitor potential climate risks.

For the general public, this research could contribute to improving our ability to anticipate climate-related changes, support decision-making, and develop better strategies for adapting to environmental challenges.

What sparked your curiosity about your field of research, and what continues to keep you curious?

My curiosity about this field was sparked by the challenge of detecting and understanding Schumann resonances and exploring their possible relationship with climate variations.

I am fascinated by the idea of developing sensitive sensors that can observe these natural electromagnetic signals and provide insights into the complex interactions between the Earth, the atmosphere, and the surrounding environment.

The opportunity to build and test a real measurement system that captures signals from our planet and contributes to a better understanding of its dynamic behaviour continues to motivate my research and drive my curiosity.

What is one thing you wish more people understood about your field of research?

I wish more people understood the importance of radio frequency (RF) engineering and its role in understanding and interacting with the world around us.

RF signals are not only essential for modern technologies such as communication systems, satellites, radar, and environmental monitoring, but they are also part of the natural electromagnetic environment in which our planet and living organisms exist.

Our bodies, including the brain, rely on complex electrical and electromagnetic processes for communication between cells, information processing, and the functioning of the nervous system.

Studying electromagnetic signals and their interactions with the Earth and biological systems can help us better understand the connections between technology, nature, and human health.

Through RF engineering, we can develop advanced sensing technologies that allow us to observe, measure, and better understand these complex interactions.

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