Radiotherapy or imaging physics: which interests you?
Radiotherapy physics helps teams deliver cancer treatment accurately. Imaging physics helps them obtain useful scans for diagnosis and care. Both involve measurement, computing, equipment checks and working with clinical colleagues.
How the work compares
| Area | Purpose | Examples of the work |
|---|---|---|
| Radiotherapy physics | Plan and deliver radiation treatment | Calculate doses, check treatment plans and test treatment machines. |
| X-ray and CT physics | Produce useful diagnostic images | Improve image quality, measure dose and advise on radiation safety. |
| MRI, ultrasound and optical imaging | Image the body using other physical techniques | Test scanners, improve images and support safe use. |
| Nuclear medicine | Use radioactive tracers for imaging and treatment | Check PET and SPECT systems, measure radioactive material and calculate dose. |
Skills you will use in both
- Making careful measurements and checking results
- Investigating problems with equipment or data
- Using software and keeping clear records
- Thinking through risks and safe ways of working
- Explaining technical information to colleagues
Questions to help you choose
- Would you enjoy improving a treatment plan or a diagnostic scan?
- Which equipment and scientific ideas would you like to learn more about?
- How much would you like to work with software, measurements or individual treatment plans?
- What have you learned from reading about the work or speaking to a department?
Find the right training post
For England’s STP, look for the exact specialty name in the advert. X-ray and CT work falls under Radiation Safety and Diagnostic Radiology; MRI and ultrasound fall under Imaging with Non-Ionising Radiation.
The balance of tasks varies between departments. Read the employer’s description to find out what you would learn and where you would work.
Read more about the work
Explore the specialism that sounds most interesting to you.
Sources
Guidance checked: 18 August 2026