The International Organization of Medical Physicists (IOMP) chose the theme “Inspiring the next generations of Medical Physicists” for the 2024 International Day of Medical Physics.
In promotional material, IOMP identifies ways that those in the field can inspire and support the future leaders of our field:
Mentorship and Guidance: Take the time to mentor young professionals and students.
Educational Opportunities: Promote and participate in educational programs, workshops, and conferences.
Research and Innovation: Foster an environment that encourages research and innovation.
Community and Collaboration: Build a strong community of medical physicists that values collaboration and inclusivity.
Recognition and Celebration: Acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of young medical physicists.
These are all excellent recommendations, but aren’t they just good personnel management, applicable to any career? Such things will make the work experience better but is it really going to inspire anyone? The cynic might say that medical physicists already have more than enough inspiration in salaries that are better than many other scientific professions, but such comments don’t address the critical need to attract and keep a diverse population that will drive medical physics in the 2030s and beyond.
So, what is going to inspire the next generation? To answer this, we’re going to ask a panel consisting of two very different groups:
- Established medical physicists
- Graduate students/trainees
Will they agree? Can we find some real answers that will make a difference?
Join us November 14th and make sure to bring your opinions, this will be an interactive experience!