Radiology has significant impact in delivering positive healthcare outcomes, especially involving cancer treatment, as long as one works with precision and responsibility.
Subhash Verma, our next pathbreaker, Medical Physicist at S.N. Medical College (Jodhpur), ensures accurate radiation treatment for cancer patients, and manages radiation safety.
Subhash talks to Shyam Krishnamurthy from The Interview Portal about his work not only as a dedicated Medical Physicist but also as a published author with expertise in Radiation Technology and Hindi Writing.
For students, Radiological Physics provides a broad foundation that allows one to branch out to multiple fields such as Astronomy, Nuclear Physics, Agriculture etc.
Subhash, can you explain your background to our young readers?
I grew up in Jind District, Haryana, where I completed my primary education in a village school. For higher studies, I went to Delhi University and the Bhabha Atomic Research Center (BARC) in Mumbai. I’ve also written three novels, with my latest, “Anushasan,” being based on the Mayapuri radiological incident.
What did you study in college and post-graduation?
I completed my graduation in Physics at Kurukshetra University and did my Master’s in Physics from Agra University.
I also have a Diploma in Radiological Physics (Dip. R. P.), Health/Medical Physics from BARC (Bhabha Atomic Research Center), Mumbai and a PhD in Radiotherapy from BHU.
Can you explain some of the influences that led you to a career in Medical Physics?
I’ve always loved physics. After my MSc in physics, I wanted to see how physics could be applied in daily life. In my master’s degree, my specialization was in nuclear and radiation physics. So, I was looking for career in radiation or nuclear physics. In 2018, Some of my seniors joined BARC as scientific officer. Through them I came to know that there is an opportunity to become a medical physicist , which is an application of physics in healthcare.
Later , I did my Diploma in Radiological physics from Homi Bhabha National Institute, BARC, Mumbai and clinical training from Institute of Medical Science, BHU, Varanasi.
How did you plan your career path?
After my clinical training from BHU, I did my PhD at IMS BHU on the topic, “Radiomic study and applications in radiotherapy” .
Later, I joined as a Medical Physicist at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi where we use the most advanced radiation therapy techniques for cancer care.
Medical Physics is the bridge between physics and healthcare for the treatment of cancer. The job of a medical physicist is to ensure precise treatment planning and safety of cancer patients, ensuring safety of staff from radiation and maintaining the regulatory requirements at workplace.
How did you get your first break?
My internship at BHU was a big turning point. I was skilled in Python programming and research, which helped me secure a JRF fellowship. After six months, I started working at Apollo Hospital in Delhi.
What were some of the challenges you faced? How did you overcome them?
The biggest challenge was transitioning from pure physics to the medical field. I had to learn human anatomy and biology quickly. Since the job is very hands-on and involves cancer treatment, I need to work with precision and responsibility.
Where do you work now, and what do you do?
I currently work as a medical physicist at S.N. Medical College, Jodhpur. I ensure accurate radiation treatment for cancer patients, manage radiation safety, and protect workers from radiation exposure. I love that this job allows me to help people at a critical time in their lives.
How does your work benefit society?
Cancer is a major challenge today. Through my work, I help treat cancer patients and ensure radiation safety. I also teach professionals how to handle radiation safely.
A memorable moment in your career?
During my studies in BARC, I used to walk daily in evening in the beautiful campus. During the daily walk , I developed the idea of my second Novel, “Jageera: ek ajnabi saudagar”. During my job at Apollo hospital, I wrote my third Novel, “Anushasan” which is based on the Mayapuri radiological incident in Delhi, which is a story of a Delhi university student who investigated the Mayapuri incident with his friend “Richa”
Your advice to students?
Discover what you love to do and pursue it with passion. Work hard, be responsible, and always keep learning.