Freda Werdiger is a Physicist specialising in physical and x-ray optics, with expertise in theoretical, computational and experimental elements of optical problem solving. Her prior work involves fundamental contributions to the field of singular optics and our understanding of the interaction between light and matter with a particular interest in optical speckle and x-ray diffraction.

At Monash University, Freda worked in the core team at the Laboratory for Dynamic Imaging, developing methods for x-ray based particle-image velocimetry (XV) on lightweight scanners. Freda developed methods for the quantification of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease using XV in collaboration with the Adelaide Women's and Children's Hospital. Other XV-based collaborations include Cedars Sinai Hospital and the University of Tasmania.

Currently, as a Research Fellow for the University of Melbourne, her work involves the application of advanced image analytics - including Deep Learning and Machine Learning - to develop tools to diagnose and develop insights for acute ischemic stroke as part of the Australian Stroke Alliance. Areas of focus are clot detection in CT angiography, segmentation of stroke infarct on MR diffusion-weighted imaging, and prediction of tissue fate using acute CT perfusion imaging data. She is based in the Melbourne Brain Centre at the Royal Melbourne Hospital.