Real-time online monitoring techniques for range and dose-guided adaptation in proton therapy
- Planned secondments: Boston Massachusetts General Hospital (US), Western Norway University of Applied Sciences (Norway) and University of Bern (Switzerland)
- PhD program: LMU Munich
Project description
Range and dose‐delivery uncertainties remain a major obstacle to fully exploiting the ballistic precision of proton beams. Several techniques for online monitoring are now being actively investigated to enable real-time range verification and, potentially, dose reconstruction in proton therapy. This project will focus in particular on prompt gamma and ionoacoustic monitoring, exploiting the online detection of secondary emissions of energetic photons and (for pulsed beams) thermoacoustic waves induced by proton irradiation, respectively.
The main objective is to compare the accuracy and precision of these methods in an in-silico study—complemented, when appropriate, by experimental data—across different anatomical sites, in order to identify the most suitable technique for specific tumour indications. Further goals include exploring adaptive treatment scenarios based on (i) range information alone and (ii) combined range and dose reconstruction for those portions of the treatment where secondary emissions can be reliably detected. The project will also quantify the added value of range/dose-based adaptation relative to adaptation guided solely by anatomical changes.
Ultimately, the project aims to develop a strategy for online treatment adaptation that leverages the most effective monitoring approach identified, potentially enriched by biological information provided by other members of the consortium.
For more information concerning the research project please contact:
Katia Parodi
Candidate profile
Doctoral Candidate at LMU Munich
Requirements are:
- MSc in physics or engineering, ideally with a background in medical physics or biomedical engineering
- Good understanding of radiation interaction with matter and of medical imaging
- Proficiency in coding and documentation standards, Monte Carlo simulations (Geant4 and/or FLUKA) and programming languages (preferably C/C++, Python and Fortran)
- High level of creativity and motivation to pursue interdisciplinary research
- Fluent English knowledge (spoken and written)
Merits are:
- Familiarity with proton therapy in general, and prompt gamma and/or ionoacoustics or related techniques (e.g., thermoacoustic simulations with k-Wave toolbox)
- Practical experience with treatment planning and image reconstruction techniques
- Experience in carrying out research in international and multidisciplinary teams
Ludwig-Maximilians Universität München
PROJECT BENEFICIARY
The LMU Chair of Medical Physics offers a multidisciplinary and international environment with a broad range of research directions, largely pursued within a wide network of international collaborations on key topics in proton and light ion beam therapy. We provide an excellent research setting with access to state-of-the-art technologies and methodologies.