Physics and Engineering Division The Department of Radiation Oncology

Medical Physics is an applied branch of physics focused on applying the concepts and methods of physics to the diagnosis and treatment of human disease. It is recognized as a medical specialty by the American Board of Medical Specialties (ABMS), with board certification obtained through the American Board of Radiology (ABR).

Medical physicists contribute to clinical service, education, and research. Three of our medical physicists are board-certified by the ABR in Therapeutic Medical Physics, and one is currently in the certification process. We are actively involved in education at UTMB through our departmental radiation physics course for radiation oncology residents, as well as small-group instruction through the School of Medicine. Our faculty frequently contribute to peer-reviewed publications and present at regional and national scientific meetings.

For more information about the field of Medical Physics, visit the American Association of Physicists in Medicine website.

Medical dosimetrists work closely with radiation oncologists, medical physicists, and radiation therapists to create personalized treatment plans for each patient. This process balances delivering a therapeutic dose of radiation to the target while minimizing exposure to surrounding healthy tissues to preserve function and quality of life.

Our dosimetrists are actively involved in resident education through hands-on teaching of treatment planning concepts. Both are certified by the Medical Dosimetrist Certification Board (MDCB).

For more information on Medical Dosimetry, please visit the American Association of Medical Dosimetrists’ website.