Bridging Physics, Biology, and Clinical Practice: Zoe Wilson's MSc Journey in Medical Physics with Radiobiology

The MSc in Medical Physics with Radiobiology at the University of Oxford’s Department of Oncology is an innovative programme designed for those interested in bridging the gap between physics, biology, and clinical practice. The one-year, full-time course provides a solid grounding in the principles of medical physics, from the fundamentals of radiation action to advanced imaging and radiotherapy technologies, as well as an additional focus on radiobiology at a molecular and cellular level.

Zoe Wilson applied to study MSc Medical Physics with Radiobiology after discovering an interest in medical imaging during her undergraduate degree. Zoe shares her experience of the course and how the expert-led teaching helped her to shape her research direction.

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

Having completed my BSc thesis on fetal MRI protocols, medical imaging was always a field I had an interest in, but ‘Medical Physics’ and everything that it encompasses was not something I was familiar with. It wasn’t until I was looking at Master’s programmes that were available that I saw the Oncology Department’s new course on their website.

What did you enjoy most about the course?

The breadth of fields that you are exposed to throughout the course is particularly unique to how this MSc is structured. Coming from a pure physics background, I really enjoyed having the opportunity to delve into the radiobiology and cancer science. These provided us with a strong foundation for the biological processes that underpinned the cancer imaging and radiotherapy modules, making it possible to form a comprehensive understanding of all the moving parts that clinicians and researchers need to consider. Having different lecturers combine their insight into core medical physics concepts as well as the frontier research they are currently engaged with was a great insight into the different areas we were studying.

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

On the back of this MSc, I have stayed in Oxford to work as a Research Scientist with Daniel McGowan (who supervised my MSc thesis), investigating different respiratory motion corrections to improve the diagnostic capabilities of PET/CT images. My experiences during the course definitely steered me towards research over the course of the year when I was previously undecided, but also introduced me to several career paths within medical physics that I hadn’t encountered before. My master’s cohort has gone on to explore all these options in different sectors which is really exciting.

Would you recommend the course?

I think that anyone committed to developing an interdisciplinary understanding of medical physics would thoroughly enjoy this course. I have continued to work with my supervisor on a continuation of my MSc research so something must have gone very well!

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

Oxford provides you with the environment to engage with so many different people across the department, your college, and throughout the city. Making sure you find the time to make the most of everything the university has to offer during your MSc will make all the difference to how much you get out of your time here.

The MSc in Medical Physics with Radiobiology offers a solid foundation for students eager to make meaningful contributions to the fields of medical physics and radiation oncology. Through a curriculum that balances foundational theory and hands-on research, Zoe gained essential transferable research skills, built professional connections, and developed a clearer sense of her career aspirations. 

For more information and application details, please visit the Graduate Admissions webpage.