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Radiation Oncology

Optimal cancer management is a continually evolving field which often requires a multidisciplinary approach. Students interested in radiation therapy should acquire a broad clinical background. Radiation Oncology is a combination of:

• understanding the role of radiation therapy in the treatment of cancer
• learning the general principles of oncology, which includes, basic science of cancer biology, diagnostic work-up and staging of cancer, participating in tumor boards and deciding on a multidisplinary treatment plan, the administration of radiation treatment for cancer and its integration with surgery and systemic therapy, and the supportive medical care of the cancer patient, particularly outpatient care
• observing the specialized procedures of radiation therapy for cancer, which include: simulation and treatment of common external beam irradiation fields, administration of CT-based 3D conformal radiation therapy and intensity modulated radiation therapy, planning and administration of brachytherapy, intraoperative photodynamic therapy, proton beam therapy and stereotactic radiation.
• learning about the diagnosis and management of acute and late toxicities due to radiation and multimodal cancer therapies

Radiation Oncology offers opportunities for clinical and/or basic science research for highly motivated students interested in a career in this field. Some laboratory and/or clinical research positions in the department offer students a modest stipend.

Required:

Radiation Oncology elective

Highly recommended:

Consult Psychiatry
Gastroenterology
Gynecologic Oncology
Hematology/Oncology
Infectious Disease
Otorhinolaryngology
Pediatric Oncology
Pulmonary Medicine
Radiology
Surgery Oncology
Surgical Pathology

To learn more about Penn's Department of Radiation Oncology visit their website at: http://www.xrt.upenn.edu/training/index.html#medical

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