Go to content

Métiers et professions en santé et services sociaux

Medical Physicist

Medical Physicist

University

salaire Min. 42,21 $ / h
Max. 58,45 $ / h

Description and Responsibilities

Medical physics is an applied branch of physics devoted to the application of concepts and methods from physics to the diagnosis and treatment of human disease.

Medical physicists practice in different areas of interest, including cancer treatment using ionizing radiation (radiation oncology), diagnostic imaging using X-ray, diagnostic imaging using radioisotopes (nuclear medicine), as well as the study of risks associated with radiation and radiation protection. 

Education and Training Requirements

A bachelor's degree in physics or engineering physics, and graduate and postgraduate studies in medical physics provide basic knowledge of anatomy, physiology, genetics and biochemistry, which are required to become a medical physicist. Graduate and postgraduate studies focus mainly on physics, and radiation physics in particular.

Academic programs in medical physics are offered in 3 universities: 

Scholarships in medical physics are offered to students under the scholarship program of the ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux. For more information, see Bourses en physique médicale page (in French only).

Required Interests, Skills and Personality Type

  • Can observe and analyze different physical phenomen
  • Must be curious and logical
  • Must be imaginative and creative
  • Must enjoy physical work and handling (medical) instruments
  • Must have ability to synthesize information
  • Must have good summarizing and analytical skills

Personality Type (RIASEC)

IRA
  • I - Prefers studying, understanding and solving problems
  • R - Prefers practical work and handling tools
  • A - Prefers completing creative tasks

Work Environment

Medical physicists mainly work in hospitals (in French only).

Useful Links