Studying Medical Physics at Oxford: Joshua's Experience

The MSc in Medical Physics with Radiobiology brings together a global student cohort interested in studying at the intersection of physics, biology, and clinical practice. Its unique integration of radiobiology provides a deeper understanding of the biological principles that underpin advances in cancer care, equipping graduates for careers spanning research, technology development, and clinical innovation.

Joshua Webster-Ford studied the MSc in Medical Physics with Radiobiology in 2024, attracted by the diverse curriculum on offer. The fundamental and applied medical physics knowledge he gained from the lecture material, alongside the research and programming skills he honed during his thesis project, prepared him for the next stages of his research career in radiation oncology. Joshua shares his experience of the course and where it has led him.

Can you tell us about your background?

I am originally from Wyoming, USA! During my undergraduate degree in biochemistry, I initially detested physics! However, as I progressed further, I found it more and more interesting and eventually fell in love with it. In my penultimate year of studies, I did an internship on deep learning for MRI scan quality prediction and really fell in love with medical physics. I loved how it required a knowledge of mathematics, physics, coding, and anatomy!

How did you hear about the MSc in Medical Physics with Radiobiology course and what made you decide to apply?

My partner grew up in Oxford and so it was always our dream to study there together! The MSc in Medical Physics with Radiobiology stuck out to me because it seemed to cover so much material (radiobiology, clinical regulation, clinical trials, imaging physics, radiation treatment physics and nuclear medicine!) in such a little time. I also enjoyed that it included clinical placements and a significant research project. Finally, I thought it would be intriguing to join a master's that is still so new at Oxford, since that meant that I could be a part of the process of building and refining it for future cohorts. 

What did you enjoy most about the course?

Honestly speaking, there wasn't a part of the course that I did not enjoy. If I had to choose, I would say that I most enjoyed the lectures on MRI and getting to give my fellow course mates an ultrasound at the Churchill Hospital!

What were your next career steps after completing the MSc in Medical Physics with Radiobiology?

After graduating, I worked briefly as a Research Assistant at the Karolinska Institutet Hospital in Sweden. I worked on data from a photon counting CT, something I learned about in the Oxford course. Currently, I work as a Clinical Research Coordinator in Stanford University's Department of Radiation Oncology, the same department as the world's first upright proton beam, while I apply to graduate school. 

How has the MSc in Medical Physics with Radiobiology helped you to achieve your career goals?

The MSc has been immensely helpful. Working in Radiology and Radiation Oncology departments, everyday I come across something that I learned about in the lecture component of the course. In addition, the coding and research skills I acquired during the dissertation component made me a sharper researcher and better team member. 

What is your top tip for students wanting to study here?

I have two "top tips" for getting the most out of Oxford. First, your course mates are your best friends. We had a very diverse group from different countries, backgrounds, and fields, and that made our discussions very interesting. Being able to study with them (and stress with them over exams) was one of the best parts of the course. Second, take advantage of all that Oxford has to offer! In addition to the course, I loved attending external lectures in accelerator physics, joining the Kendo team, and getting funding from my college to tour CERN. The world is as wide as your imagination at Oxford!

For more information and application details, please visit the MSc in Medical Physics with Radiobiology webpage.