Radiation therapy remains fundamental in cancer treatment, with proton therapy distinguished by its superior dose distribution, characterized by the Bragg peak effect. This colloquium explores the fundamentals of proton therapy, elucidating both its merits and challenges. The effective application of proton therapy relies on rigorous physics considerations and stringent quality assurance measures to fully exploit its capabilities. Advanced imaging technologies are crucial in optimizing the precision of proton therapy, ensuring maximal tumor cell destruction while safeguarding surrounding healthy tissues. The incorporation of artificial intelligence into radiation therapy protocols is swiftly progressing, markedly enhancing treatment precision, conformity, and operational efficiency. These technological strides and their clinical implications promise to augment the role of proton therapy in oncology significantly. Furthermore, I will delve into my journey from obtaining a Ph.D. in plasma physics at Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory to pioneering in medical physics. This transition underscores how a strong foundation in plasma physics has been instrumental in navigating and innovating within the field of medical physics. My experiences illustrate the significant impact that medical physicists have in advancing cancer treatment technologies. This presentation aims to highlight medical physics as a compelling career path for physics students, demonstrating how their expertise can critically contribute to advancing cancer care and improving patient outcomes.

To join via Zoom: https://pppl.zoom.us/j/94274254127?pwd=vt4Wb44N8nNhHgZ6E66kq9ViqztS4R.1 
Meeting ID: 942 7425 4127
Passcode: colloquium