SCOPE
We are seeking an experienced and visionary medical physicist with a strong research background in radiation therapy to lead pioneering research initiatives within our institution’s Radiation Oncology Department. This pivotal role involves spearheading innovative projects, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, and overseeing the strategic direction of research efforts in medical physics and radiation therapy.
________________________________________
CANDIDATE PROFILE
The ideal candidate is a clinical or academic medical physicist with demonstrated expertise in radiation oncology and radiation therapy physics. Experience working in an academic medical center or comprehensive cancer care setting is strongly preferred. Candidates should bring a passion for translational research, mentorship, and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration in the field of medical physics.
________________________________________
QUALIFICATIONS
• PhD in Medical Physics or a closely related field (e.g., Radiation Physics with a specialization in Medical Physics) required.
• Certification or eligibility for certification by the American Board of Radiology (ABR) or the Canadian College of Physicists in Medicine (CCPM) in Therapeutic Medical Physics is strongly preferred.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience conducting research in radiation therapy physics, with a strong record of peer-reviewed publications and successful grant acquisition.
• Proven leadership and mentorship skills in academic or clinical research settings.
• Proficiency in research project management, budgeting, and strategic planning.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to foster interdisciplinary collaboration.
• Deep understanding of regulatory requirements and ethical considerations in clinical research.
________________________________________
FUNCTIONS
• Leadership and Innovation: Drive and manage research initiatives, identifying key areas for advancement in medical and radiation therapy physics. Integrate research with clinical practice to optimize academic medical physics.
• Strategic Planning: Develop and execute a research strategy aligned with institutional goals. Identify and pursue funding opportunities through compelling grant proposals.
• Regulatory Compliance and Reporting: Ensure compliance with all applicable regulations and policies governing radiation therapy research. Submit quarterly reports and oversee annual research activities.
• Research Dissemination: Publish findings in high-impact journals and present at national/international conferences (e.g., AAPM, ASTRO).
• Collaboration and Advocacy: Promote interdisciplinary collaboration across MBPCC, LSU, and external research institutes. Serve as a national advocate for medical physics research.
________________________________________
ADMINISTRATIVE DUTIES
• Chair the Research Committee and collaborate with various research and graduate programs (MSc, PhD, postdoctoral).
• Serve as liaison with government, non-governmental, and industry stakeholders.
• Represent the department at national medical physics and radiation oncology research meetings.
• Support departmental academic events, including research seminars and graduate research day.
________________________________________
PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT
• Strengthen ties with the LSU Graduate Medical Physics Program.
• Create faculty development and research opportunities.
• Promote secure and ethical sharing of clinical data for research and quality improvement.
• Support accreditation processes and institutional review initiatives.
________________________________________
MENTORSHIP
• Provide mentorship to research faculty, graduate students, and postdoctoral fellows.
• Support academic and professional development of medical physics research staff.
• Participate in performance evaluations of research personnel.
________________________________________
APPOINTMENT DETAILS
• Reports directly to the Chief of Physics of the Department of Medical Physics.
• Full-time, 1.0 FTE (5 days/week).
• Initial three-year appointment, with opportunity for renewal.
• Adjunct appointment available with the LSU Department of Physics and Astronomy, with rank commensurate with qualifications.
________________________________________
VISION
To further establish the Department of Medical Physics at Mary Bird Perkins Cancer Center as a global leader in radiation therapy research. This will be accomplished by expanding the Adaptive Radiation Therapy program, deepening clinical-research integration, enhancing research training, and cultivating strong national and international research networks