Medical physics applies the principles of the physical sciences to biomedical problems. The activities of medical physicists cover a broad spectrum that ranges from the study of basic biomedical processes to the diagnosis and treatment of disease, and thus, the training of a medical physicist must be broad. To participate fruitfully in this interdisciplinary profession, a medical physicist must be thoroughly competent in the physical and mathematical sciences related to imaging physics and radiation physics, must understand biological principles, and must be able to communicate with physicians.
The Committee on Medical Physics offers a program to provide aspiring medical physicists with the knowledge that they will need in their future profession. Our program leads to the Doctor of Philosophy degree with emphasis on research that provides preparation for careers in academia, industry, and/or clinical support roles.
The medical physics program at the University of Chicago is recognized internationally for its research excellence. Many of the investigators are leaders in their respective specialties. Also, because the program is located in the Medical Center of the University, there are strong interactions between the clinical and research staff. Faculty with a primary interest in diagnostic imaging hold appointments in the Department of Radiology, whereas faculty with a primary interest in the physics of radiation therapy hold appointments in the Department of Radiation and Cellular Oncology.
