The Interview Portal
Radiation Oncology and Medical Physicist Interview
The Interview Portal, Seattle, Washington, us, 98127
The burden of cancer is significant and is expected to rise in the coming years. Improved accuracy and safety of radiation therapies can enhance the quality of life for individuals battling cancer.
Bishwambhar Sengupta, our next pathbreaker, Academic Medical Physicist and Assistant Professor at the University of Washington Medical Center in Seattle, focuses on a variety of challenges related to patient care and radiation treatment.
Bishwambhar talks to Shyam Krishnamurthy from The Interview Portal about how his PhD, and CAMPEP residency (Therapy) at Northwestern Memorial Hospital imparts him the clinical training and academic research skills required to serve patients better !
For students, your educational journey may be filled with obstacles, but facing them head-on can lead to significant growth. Don’t be discouraged by setbacks; use them as opportunities to learn and improve
Bishwambhar,
can you explain your background to our young readers ? I was born in West Bengal and spent my childhood in Chennai, Varanasi, and Kolkata. Growing up in a humble background, my parents valued education. My father worked for the Airports Authority of India, which likely influenced my early interests. I was actively involved in extracurricular activities and sports throughout school, earning several awards along the way. From a young age, I was particularly fascinated by space and aviation, passions that have significantly shaped my initial career aspirations. What did you do for graduation/post graduation? I did my BSc Physics Hons. from Calcutta University at Ramakrishna Mission Residential College followed by M.Sc. in Physics from Pondicherry Central University Can you explain some of the influences that led you to a career in Medical Physics? My parents motivated me to pursue my interests and are a constant source of encouragement. In school, I was fortunate to have teachers who believed in me. I was inspired by Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s Wings of Fire My summer internship at I.M.Sc through IAS was a big turning point. How did you plan the steps to get into the career you wanted? Or how did you make a transition to a new career? Tell us about your career path I’ve had a diverse and evolving educational journey that has significantly shaped my career path. I began with a Bachelor of Science degree at Calcutta University, where I faced considerable challenges and ultimately achieved a 59% overall score. Despite my efforts, I didn’t meet the cut-off for the JAM exam, which led me to pursue a Master of Science in Physics at Pondicherry Central University. Specializing in Experimental Condensed Matter Physics was a pivotal moment for me. I connected with faculty and students from various regions, enriching my academic experience and broadening my perspective. During my time at Pondicherry, I secured a summer internship with the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (I.A.S.) in Chennai. This internship was invaluable; I collaborated with peers from prestigious institutions like IITs and IISERs and learned from their experiences. It was during this time that I discovered the possibility of pursuing higher education abroad without incurring significant financial burdens. My first exposure to medical physics came rather unexpectedly and much later in my academic journey. During my masters degree, as a Summer Research Fellow at the Institute of Mathematical Sciences, I focused on the Ising model, which is used to study and understand ferromagnetic materials. This experience marked my initial foray into research in physics, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The environment was incredibly supportive, and I was surrounded by like-minded researchers. During my time there, I also met several individuals who were pursuing their PhD, and other summer interns who wanted to pursue a PhD. Their experiences and insights provided me with the motivation and encouragement to consider following a similar path. This internship at IAS truly became a turning point for me, shaping my future aspirations in the field. After completing my Master’s, I received my first job offer to teach at Rajiv Gandhi University of Knowledge Technology. Unfortunately, due to health issues, I was unable to accept the position. Instead, I focused on preparing for the GRE and successfully applied for a PhD program in the United States. I was thrilled to receive an admission offer from Clemson University with full funding, marking a major milestone in my academic journey. Looking back, my first introduction to medical physics feels almost serendipitous. I joined Clemson University as a PhD candidate and was working on biosensors when we hosted a talk from a professor at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a charitable institution focused on pediatric cancer care. After the talk, some colleagues mentioned that St. Jude, after whom the organization was named, is the patron saint of lost causes, which prompted me to reflect on the impact of disease and how I could contribute to patient treatment. This inspired me to pursue a career in Medical Physics. I opted for an enroute master’s degree using the current projects on biosensors, and I switched advisors to focus on a medical physics-related project for my PhD. My research transitioned into medical physics, which aligned with my interests and aspirations. My PhD thesis was on “Generation and Modelling of X-rays for Clinical and Research Applications.” The first part of my research involved modelling a radiosurgery device using Monte Carlo simulations. This required a visit to a radiosurgery clinic in Hungary, where I collaborated with physicists to understand the clinic’s workflow and the quality assurance (QA) tools and methods they employed. Working directly with the device and observing its calibration and QA processes provided me with valuable insights, ultimately leading to the development of a new operating mode that has since been adopted by one of the manufacturers. In the second part of my PhD, I focused on designing and building an X-ray irradiator specifically for cell cultures. This was essential because particle accelerators, like linear accelerators (Linacs), typically deliver very high dose rates, and I aimed to study the effects of low doses and dose rates on live cells. This involved working with the University’s Radiation Safety Officer and getting approval from the State regulators, besides working with different groups within the university. Healthcare is a highly regulated field in the U.S., and medical physics is a significant part of it. To practice as a medical physicist, one must adhere to the rules set by CAMPEP, the accrediting organization for medical physics, and undergo specific training. Since my graduate degrees were in physics, I needed to obtain a CAMPEP certificate to qualify for a residency, which is a prerequisite for residency and board certification. Following my PhD, I secured a postdoctoral position at The University of Washington, where I further explored this field. However, shortly after starting, the pandemic hit. I seized this opportunity to obtain a certificate in medical physics, which helped me better align with my career goals. The combination of my post-doctoral experience and my volunteer work in the department and hospital ultimately allowed me to secure a residency position at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago through the national match process. After two years of rigorous training in residency, I successfully applied for my first position as a Medical Physicist and Assistant Professor at the University of Washington Medical Center. This role has been the culmination of my educational and professional journey, and I look forward to continuing to grow in this field. How did you get your first break? I got my first significant break by taking advantage of the pandemic. While working full-time as a post-doctoral researcher, I decided to register for a certificate course in medical physics. This became possible due to the advice and support of my postdoc mentor. This decision proved to be invaluable. The additional qualification not only enhanced my expertise but also made my application more competitive during the residency match process. By combining my practical experience with this certification, I positioned myself favourably for opportunities in the field, ultimately leading to my successful placement in a residency program at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago. What were some of the challenges you faced? How did you address them? Challenge 1: Adjusting to life in a new country/culture. The only way to address this is to learn and adapt. Challenge 2: Working with a toxic advisor. Learn the signs of toxicity in a lab and lookout for early signs. Most institutes in the West have a reliable support system for graduate students to address these issues. Where do you work now?
What problems do you solve? I currently work as an Academic Medical Physicist and Assistant Professor at the University of Washington Medical Center in Seattle. In this role, I focus on a variety of challenges related to patient care and radiation treatment. What skills are needed in your line of work? How did you acquire the skills? The skills required for my job include a solid foundation in core physics and CAMPEP courses, proficiency in mathematics and physics, as well as coding abilities. Clinical training is also essential, and I gained most of these skills during my residency training, which provided hands-on experience in the field. What’s a typical day like? A typical day at work can vary widely depending on the clinical schedule assigned to me. My responsibilities might include assisting Radiation Oncologists and Cardiologists with procedures like Intravascular Brachytherapy, uploading treatment reports, and checking patient treatment charts. I also collaborate with therapists and service engineers to troubleshoot machine issues, support dosimetrists in developing complex treatment plans, and engage in teaching residents and medical students. Additionally, I allocate time for academic research, which is an important part of my role. What I love most about being a medical physicist is the profound sense of fulfillment that comes from serving patients in the radiation oncology clinic. Knowing that my work directly contributes to their care and well-being is incredibly rewarding. How does your work benefit society? The burden of cancer is significant and is expected to rise in the coming years. My work as a medical physicist plays a crucial role in cancer treatment, directly impacting patients’ lives and their outcomes. By ensuring the accuracy and safety of radiation therapies, I help provide effective treatment options that can improve survival rates and enhance the quality of life for individuals battling cancer. Knowing that my contributions are part of a larger effort to combat this disease brings me a deep sense of fulfillment and purpose. Ultimately, I am proud to be part of a team that is dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the fight against cancer. Tell us an example of a specific memorable work you did that is very close to you! One memorable project that is particularly close to my heart involves my passion for outreach and encouraging interest in science among students. I actively participate in various outreach events whenever I can, believing in the importance of inspiring the next generation. As part of this effort, I initiated a project to bring a clone of Sir Isaac Newton’s apple tree to our campus. This symbolic tree serves as a tangible connection to the history of science and innovation. By planting it, I aimed to spark curiosity and encourage students to explore science and science-related careers. It has been fulfilling to see the tree become a focal point for discussions and activities, reinforcing the idea that scientific inquiry can lead to incredible discoveries. Your advice to students based on your experience? Embrace Challenges:
Your educational journey may be filled with obstacles, but facing them head-on can lead to significant growth. Don’t be discouraged by setbacks; use them as opportunities to learn and improve. Seek Out Opportunities beyond your curriculum:
Engage in internships and outreach programs. These experiences not only enhance your skills but also allow you to network with peers and professionals in your field. Pursue Lifelong Learning:
Stay curious and continue to seek knowledge beyond your formal education. Expanding your knowledge and expertise can open new doors. And above all else,
Be true and kind to yourself ! Future Plans? Looking ahead, I plan to continue my work as a medical physicist while also engaging in research that advances the field. My focus will be on clinical projects that improve patient care and treatment outcomes. Additionally, I have a keen interest in Global Oncology. I aspire to contribute to initiatives that address cancer care disparities on a global scale, ensuring that advancements in treatment are accessible to all. By combining my clinical expertise with research and outreach efforts, I hope to make a meaningful impact in the fight against cancer both locally and internationally.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
can you explain your background to our young readers ? I was born in West Bengal and spent my childhood in Chennai, Varanasi, and Kolkata. Growing up in a humble background, my parents valued education. My father worked for the Airports Authority of India, which likely influenced my early interests. I was actively involved in extracurricular activities and sports throughout school, earning several awards along the way. From a young age, I was particularly fascinated by space and aviation, passions that have significantly shaped my initial career aspirations. What did you do for graduation/post graduation? I did my BSc Physics Hons. from Calcutta University at Ramakrishna Mission Residential College followed by M.Sc. in Physics from Pondicherry Central University Can you explain some of the influences that led you to a career in Medical Physics? My parents motivated me to pursue my interests and are a constant source of encouragement. In school, I was fortunate to have teachers who believed in me. I was inspired by Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam’s Wings of Fire My summer internship at I.M.Sc through IAS was a big turning point. How did you plan the steps to get into the career you wanted? Or how did you make a transition to a new career? Tell us about your career path I’ve had a diverse and evolving educational journey that has significantly shaped my career path. I began with a Bachelor of Science degree at Calcutta University, where I faced considerable challenges and ultimately achieved a 59% overall score. Despite my efforts, I didn’t meet the cut-off for the JAM exam, which led me to pursue a Master of Science in Physics at Pondicherry Central University. Specializing in Experimental Condensed Matter Physics was a pivotal moment for me. I connected with faculty and students from various regions, enriching my academic experience and broadening my perspective. During my time at Pondicherry, I secured a summer internship with the Indian Association for the Cultivation of Science (I.A.S.) in Chennai. This internship was invaluable; I collaborated with peers from prestigious institutions like IITs and IISERs and learned from their experiences. It was during this time that I discovered the possibility of pursuing higher education abroad without incurring significant financial burdens. My first exposure to medical physics came rather unexpectedly and much later in my academic journey. During my masters degree, as a Summer Research Fellow at the Institute of Mathematical Sciences, I focused on the Ising model, which is used to study and understand ferromagnetic materials. This experience marked my initial foray into research in physics, and I thoroughly enjoyed it. The environment was incredibly supportive, and I was surrounded by like-minded researchers. During my time there, I also met several individuals who were pursuing their PhD, and other summer interns who wanted to pursue a PhD. Their experiences and insights provided me with the motivation and encouragement to consider following a similar path. This internship at IAS truly became a turning point for me, shaping my future aspirations in the field. After completing my Master’s, I received my first job offer to teach at Rajiv Gandhi University of Knowledge Technology. Unfortunately, due to health issues, I was unable to accept the position. Instead, I focused on preparing for the GRE and successfully applied for a PhD program in the United States. I was thrilled to receive an admission offer from Clemson University with full funding, marking a major milestone in my academic journey. Looking back, my first introduction to medical physics feels almost serendipitous. I joined Clemson University as a PhD candidate and was working on biosensors when we hosted a talk from a professor at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, a charitable institution focused on pediatric cancer care. After the talk, some colleagues mentioned that St. Jude, after whom the organization was named, is the patron saint of lost causes, which prompted me to reflect on the impact of disease and how I could contribute to patient treatment. This inspired me to pursue a career in Medical Physics. I opted for an enroute master’s degree using the current projects on biosensors, and I switched advisors to focus on a medical physics-related project for my PhD. My research transitioned into medical physics, which aligned with my interests and aspirations. My PhD thesis was on “Generation and Modelling of X-rays for Clinical and Research Applications.” The first part of my research involved modelling a radiosurgery device using Monte Carlo simulations. This required a visit to a radiosurgery clinic in Hungary, where I collaborated with physicists to understand the clinic’s workflow and the quality assurance (QA) tools and methods they employed. Working directly with the device and observing its calibration and QA processes provided me with valuable insights, ultimately leading to the development of a new operating mode that has since been adopted by one of the manufacturers. In the second part of my PhD, I focused on designing and building an X-ray irradiator specifically for cell cultures. This was essential because particle accelerators, like linear accelerators (Linacs), typically deliver very high dose rates, and I aimed to study the effects of low doses and dose rates on live cells. This involved working with the University’s Radiation Safety Officer and getting approval from the State regulators, besides working with different groups within the university. Healthcare is a highly regulated field in the U.S., and medical physics is a significant part of it. To practice as a medical physicist, one must adhere to the rules set by CAMPEP, the accrediting organization for medical physics, and undergo specific training. Since my graduate degrees were in physics, I needed to obtain a CAMPEP certificate to qualify for a residency, which is a prerequisite for residency and board certification. Following my PhD, I secured a postdoctoral position at The University of Washington, where I further explored this field. However, shortly after starting, the pandemic hit. I seized this opportunity to obtain a certificate in medical physics, which helped me better align with my career goals. The combination of my post-doctoral experience and my volunteer work in the department and hospital ultimately allowed me to secure a residency position at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago through the national match process. After two years of rigorous training in residency, I successfully applied for my first position as a Medical Physicist and Assistant Professor at the University of Washington Medical Center. This role has been the culmination of my educational and professional journey, and I look forward to continuing to grow in this field. How did you get your first break? I got my first significant break by taking advantage of the pandemic. While working full-time as a post-doctoral researcher, I decided to register for a certificate course in medical physics. This became possible due to the advice and support of my postdoc mentor. This decision proved to be invaluable. The additional qualification not only enhanced my expertise but also made my application more competitive during the residency match process. By combining my practical experience with this certification, I positioned myself favourably for opportunities in the field, ultimately leading to my successful placement in a residency program at Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago. What were some of the challenges you faced? How did you address them? Challenge 1: Adjusting to life in a new country/culture. The only way to address this is to learn and adapt. Challenge 2: Working with a toxic advisor. Learn the signs of toxicity in a lab and lookout for early signs. Most institutes in the West have a reliable support system for graduate students to address these issues. Where do you work now?
What problems do you solve? I currently work as an Academic Medical Physicist and Assistant Professor at the University of Washington Medical Center in Seattle. In this role, I focus on a variety of challenges related to patient care and radiation treatment. What skills are needed in your line of work? How did you acquire the skills? The skills required for my job include a solid foundation in core physics and CAMPEP courses, proficiency in mathematics and physics, as well as coding abilities. Clinical training is also essential, and I gained most of these skills during my residency training, which provided hands-on experience in the field. What’s a typical day like? A typical day at work can vary widely depending on the clinical schedule assigned to me. My responsibilities might include assisting Radiation Oncologists and Cardiologists with procedures like Intravascular Brachytherapy, uploading treatment reports, and checking patient treatment charts. I also collaborate with therapists and service engineers to troubleshoot machine issues, support dosimetrists in developing complex treatment plans, and engage in teaching residents and medical students. Additionally, I allocate time for academic research, which is an important part of my role. What I love most about being a medical physicist is the profound sense of fulfillment that comes from serving patients in the radiation oncology clinic. Knowing that my work directly contributes to their care and well-being is incredibly rewarding. How does your work benefit society? The burden of cancer is significant and is expected to rise in the coming years. My work as a medical physicist plays a crucial role in cancer treatment, directly impacting patients’ lives and their outcomes. By ensuring the accuracy and safety of radiation therapies, I help provide effective treatment options that can improve survival rates and enhance the quality of life for individuals battling cancer. Knowing that my contributions are part of a larger effort to combat this disease brings me a deep sense of fulfillment and purpose. Ultimately, I am proud to be part of a team that is dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the fight against cancer. Tell us an example of a specific memorable work you did that is very close to you! One memorable project that is particularly close to my heart involves my passion for outreach and encouraging interest in science among students. I actively participate in various outreach events whenever I can, believing in the importance of inspiring the next generation. As part of this effort, I initiated a project to bring a clone of Sir Isaac Newton’s apple tree to our campus. This symbolic tree serves as a tangible connection to the history of science and innovation. By planting it, I aimed to spark curiosity and encourage students to explore science and science-related careers. It has been fulfilling to see the tree become a focal point for discussions and activities, reinforcing the idea that scientific inquiry can lead to incredible discoveries. Your advice to students based on your experience? Embrace Challenges:
Your educational journey may be filled with obstacles, but facing them head-on can lead to significant growth. Don’t be discouraged by setbacks; use them as opportunities to learn and improve. Seek Out Opportunities beyond your curriculum:
Engage in internships and outreach programs. These experiences not only enhance your skills but also allow you to network with peers and professionals in your field. Pursue Lifelong Learning:
Stay curious and continue to seek knowledge beyond your formal education. Expanding your knowledge and expertise can open new doors. And above all else,
Be true and kind to yourself ! Future Plans? Looking ahead, I plan to continue my work as a medical physicist while also engaging in research that advances the field. My focus will be on clinical projects that improve patient care and treatment outcomes. Additionally, I have a keen interest in Global Oncology. I aspire to contribute to initiatives that address cancer care disparities on a global scale, ensuring that advancements in treatment are accessible to all. By combining my clinical expertise with research and outreach efforts, I hope to make a meaningful impact in the fight against cancer both locally and internationally.
#J-18808-Ljbffr