Responsibilities

SCOPE: The proton physicists assist the Director of Physics in general medical physics duties pertaining to the operation of the proton radiation therapy clinic. This includes, but is not limited to, complex PBS treatment plan optimization and assessment, patient immobilization evaluation and implementation, radiation protection safety and survey, machine and patient specific quality assurance. The proton physicists will also work closely in collaboration with both internal and external partners including therapists, physicians, physicists, dosimetrists and machine vendors to facilitate the operation of the clinic. The proton physicists are primarily responsible for the patient specific and general QA aspects of the overall treatment processes and the equipment. At the discretion of the Director of Physics, the proton physicists will also participate in the acceptance and commissioning of all proton therapy equipment. The proton physicist will support and adhere to the US Oncology Compliance Program, to include the Code of Ethics and Business Standards.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Operates with proficiency dosimetric and treatment planning equipment including, measurement instruments to calibrate all proton treatment equipment and monitoring devices, computerized proton treatment planning systems, computerized water phantom systems with appropriate ionization chambers and diodes.
• Measures and analyzes proton radiation data in accordance with the Center's mission of clinical services and clinical research. Utilizes treatment planning computer software and data analysis programs to assist in the Center's clinical operation.
• Advises and consults with physicians to provide advice or direction to technical staff when patients are being planned or treated.

• Develops protocols for performing and checking proton treatment plans to ensure patient safety and dosimetric accuracy. Participates in chart rounds.

• Performs daily, monthly and annual calibrations for all proton therapy equipment following the international standard of IAEA TRS-398 protocol as outlined in the Center's Medical Physics QA procedures and policies.
• Performs daily, monthly and annual quality control tests of proton beam characteristics and mechanical characteristics of all proton therapy equipment.
• Performs patient-specific radiation measurements and calculations and assists in the selection, specification, and optimization of any complex proton PBS and DS beam definitions required for patient treatment.
• Performs monthly and annual quality control tests of x-ray simulation equipment.
• Assists the Center's Radiation Safety Officer in maintaining the compliance with local, State, and federal agencies regulatory requirements. This includes, but is not limited to, annual surveys, radiation dosage records, and radiation safety lectures.
• Participates in the training of new physics and dosimetry staff.
• Participates in the Center's research and development projects, including all efforts related to clinical trials.
• Other duties as assigned by the Director of Physics.

Qualifications

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

-Post-graduate degree in Physics or related discipline of study from an accredited college or university.

-Clinical medical physics residency completed from a CAMPEP-accredited residency program, or minimum three to five years of experience in proton radiation physics is preferred.

-Must have current certification or be eligible for certification in field by American Board of Radiology.

-Must maintain certification and continuing education requirements outlined by American Board of Radiology.

-Must obtain and maintain valid Texas state license for medical physics as required.

-Medical Physics Residents who are board-eligible are encouraged to apply.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS: The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Must have the ability to utilize components of the treatment-planning computer including but not limited to the use of keyboards and mouse controls. Must be able to stand for 8 hours; lift 40 pound block to shoulder level; have sufficient visual acuity to distinguish structures and isodose displays on computer monitor.

WORK ENVIRONMENT: The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions. Work is performed in an office environment. Involves frequent contact with staff. While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly exposed to direct contact with patients with potential for exposure to blood, toxic substances, low-dose ionizing radiation and other conditions common to a clinic environment.