Radiation Safety Physics

Christina Stewart, Trainee Healthcare Scientist (Radiation Safety Physics)

A rather unusual career path has brought me to this position; I started by doing an undergraduate Masters in Physics at Queen’s University Belfast, and stayed on to do a PhD in nanotechnology (plasmonics).

Following this I wanted to do something practical with my knowledge and skills, so when an advert for the Modernising Scientific Careers Scientist Training Program was sent to me via e-mail I decided to apply. I was successful, and have been based in Wolverhampton ever since. In the first year of the training scheme, I rotated through all areas of medical physics (Ionising- and Non-Ionising Radiations, Radiotherapy, and Radiation Safety Physics). For the past two years I have been specialising in Radiation Safety, and have been involved in various projects which have helped to demonstrate my competence in a range of tasks.

Since the physics department in Wolverhampton is relatively small, it means that I can get involved in many different areas of work. I have found that managers are keen to accommodate new ideas and encourage research where possible. I have also attended a number of external courses and conferences as part of my personal development program, and this has been fully supported by the department. These experiences have helped me broaden my experience and will stand me in good stead when I start my new job as a Radiation Safety Physicist in Edinburgh this September.

Wolverhampton is a city with very good transport links – Birmingham is only 15 minutes away by train and offers a wide range of great shops for shoe-aholics like me, including Selfridges, my particular vice! There is always something good to see at Wolverhampton Civic Hall including famous bands and comedians. Finally, if you like scenic walks, cycling, or just enjoying nature, there are plenty of national parks within easy driving distance.