POST-DOC DEBNATH LAB

Loyola University Chicago; Maywood (IL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious university in Illinois is seeking a qualified candidate for the role involving dosimetry techniques optimization and computational method development. The successful applicant will hold a PhD in physics or a related field and have a strong background in radiation physics and detection. This position emphasizes the importance of accurate dose determination crucial for treatment success in clinical settings.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits

Opportunities for professional development

Qualifications

• PhD required in physics, medical physics, material science, engineering, computer science or a related field.
• Background in radiation physics and dosimetry research.
• Knowledge of programming skills and Monte Carlo simulations.

Responsibilities

• Optimize dosimetry techniques for treatment success.
• Develop computational methods for small-field dosimetry.
• Parameterize a Monte Carlo-based dose calculation system.

Skills

Deep understanding of physics

Proficient in radiation physics

Experience with scintillating detectors

Proficient in programming (MATLAB, Python/C++)

Knowledge in Monte Carlo simulations

Education

PhD in Physics or related field

Tools

Geant4

TOPAS

GATE

Job description

Duties and Responsibilities

• Dosimetry techniques optimization: Accurate dose determination is paramount for the treatment success as well as for the quality assurance in the treatment planning system. Our team is working on addressing key challenges in areas such as small-field radiation therapy, micro-dosimetry, scintillating dosimetry, ultra-high dose-rate dosimetry for protons and/or electrons, accuracy in radiation measurement, AI-integrated high-resolution imaging systems, and the development of detectors sensitive to ultra-high dose rates.
• Developments of computation methods for small-field dosimetry, radiation detection systems used in photon, proton, and electron beam radiation dosimetry. The simulation includes dose deposition and analysis under a phantom system and compares the simulated results with already developed new generation dosimeters used under treatment planning systems, effective for small-field mini/microbeams, and FLASH‑RT. It involves the performance evaluation of the devices and validation in the clinical radiotherapy environment.
• Developments of computational methods for FLASH‑RT: strategies to obtain the shortest delivery time on healthy tissues and high dose-rate coverage of large volumes need to be evaluated for the current machine settings, high spatial and temporal-resolution dosimeter, and new algorithms. Following this, the candidate will parameterize a Monte Carlo-based dose calculation system (e.g., GATE, TOPAS, or Geant4-based simulation tools) for evaluation in the simulation of a realistic clinical configuration. This will enhance the understanding of ionizing radiations within FLASH‑RT, translate FLASH‑RT to clinics, and enhance cancer treatment to save more lives.
• Assigned duties as needed

Minimum Education and/or Work Experience

• M.D. or PhD Required in Physics

Qualifications

• PhD required in physics, medical physics, material science, engineering, computer science or related field.
• Background in physics, radiation physics, ionizing radiation, radiation therapy, and dosimetry research.
• Knowledge and experience in radiation detections, scintillating detectors, Monte Carlo Radiation Transport techniques, and signal processing.

Computer Skills

• Knowledge and experience of programming skills: (MATLAB, Python/C++)
• Monte Carlo simulations (ex: Geant4/TOPAS/GATE, etc.)
• Measurements - Treatment planning System. Prior Knowledge in Machine Learning algorithm is a plus.

Special Instructions to Applicants

As a Jesuit, Catholic institution of higher education, we seek candidates who will contribute to our strategic plan to deliver a Transformative Education in the Jesuit tradition. To learn more about Loyola University Chicago's mission, candidates should consult our website at www.luc.edu/mission/. For information about the university's focus on transformative education, they should consult our website at www.luc.edu/transformativeed.

About Loyola University Chicago

Founded in 1870, Loyola University Chicago is one of the nation's largest Jesuit, Catholic universities, recognized for its academic excellence, commitment to community engagement, and leadership in sustainability. A Carnegie R1 research institution, Loyola leverages its status as one of an elite group of universities with the highest level of research activity to advance knowledge that serves communities and creates global impact. With 15 schools, colleges, and institutes—including Business, Law, Medicine, Nursing, and Health Sciences—Loyola operates three primary campuses in the greater Chicago area and one in Rome, Italy, that provide students a transformative, globally connected learning experience. Consistently ranked among the nation's top universities by U.S. News & World Report, Loyola is a STARS Gold-rated institution that is ranked as one of the country's most sustainable campuses by The Princeton Review and has earned distinctions from AmeriCorps and the Carnegie Foundation for its longstanding record of service and community engagement. Guided by its Jesuit mission and commitment to caring for the whole person, Loyola educates ethical leaders who think critically, act with purpose, and strive to create a more just and sustainable world.

Loyola University Chicago strives to be an employer of choice by offering its staff and faculty a wide array of affordable, comprehensive, and competitive benefits. To view our benefits in detail, click here.

Loyola adheres to all applicable federal, state, and/or local civil rights laws and regulations prohibiting discrimination in private institutions of higher education. Please see the University's Nondiscrimination Policy.