Clinical Scientist - Principal Radiotherapy Imaging
Job Summary
Applications are invited for 1.0 WTE Band 8A posts within the Radiotherapy Physics Section of the Department of Medical Physics and Clinical Engineering at Leeds Cancer Centre, St James's University Hospital, one of the UK's largest radiotherapy centres. This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated and skilled Clinical Scientist to join our Imaging Section, contributing to the delivery of high-quality, safe and effective radiotherapy services to our patients. The role offers the chance to work across imaging, supporting the full radiotherapy pathway from image acquisition and interpretation through to treatment plan optimisation. You will work closely with colleagues across physics, radiography and clinical oncology, contributing to service delivery, quality assurance, and the ongoing development and introduction of new techniques and technologies. There will also be opportunities to get involved in research and innovation projects as the department continues to advance its imaging capabilities. We are looking for someone with relevant experience and skills in radiotherapy imaging, a keen eye for detail, strong problem-solving ability, and good communication and teamwork skills. This is a great opportunity to develop your expertise further within a supportive and forward-thinking team.
Why you should join our Team
Leeds Cancer Centre is one of the largest radiotherapy centres in the UK, delivering over 7,800 new radiotherapy plans per annum. We are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including 12 Elekta linacs, 3 Philips CT-Simulators, 1 Philips MR-Simulator, VisionRT surface-guided radiotherapy (SGRT), and the RayStation treatment planning system. Our service also includes a Flexitron HDR remote afterloading platform for advanced image-guided brachytherapy, an I-125 prostate brachytherapy service, and intracranial SRS delivered via Gamma Knife ICON.
The Radiotherapy Physics Section is currently undergoing an exciting period of transformation, with a strengthened leadership structure designed to support growth, innovation and long-term service sustainability. Our Treatment Planning and Imaging Teams are close-knit, multidisciplinary groups delivering advanced radiotherapy imaging and planning services, working collaboratively across physics, radiography and oncology to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients. This structure ensures strong alignment between strategy, research and clinical operations, meaning you'll be joining a team that is not only clinically excellent, but genuinely forward-looking, with real opportunities to shape the future of radiotherapy services. Beyond the department, Leeds itself offers an exceptional quality of life. From a vibrant cultural, music and sporting scene to excellent transport links and easy access to the stunning landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales and Peak District, it's a fantastic place to live and work.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Service Management
- Deputise for the section lead, taking responsibility for radiotherapy imaging services in their absence
- Supervise, mentor and assess the competency of junior scientists, trainees and technologists
- Manage relevant quality assurance data, imaging databases and records
- Ensure adequate equipment, resources and staff competencies are in place to deliver an efficient, safe service
Clinical & Technical Expertise
- Act as a Medical Physics Expert (MPE) under IR(ME)R 2017, providing expert advice on treatment planning, imaging, dosimetry and radiotherapy technology
- Perform acceptance testing, commissioning, calibration and quality assurance of imaging equipment (e.g. CT-Sim, MRI, PET-CT)
- Support plan checking, technique development and clinical implementation of advanced techniques (e.g. IMRT/VMAT/SABR)
- Provide expert judgement on equipment suitability, fault resolution and fitness for clinical use
Research & Innovation
- Contribute to evaluation, research and development projects to advance imaging practice
- Support the introduction and clinical translation of new technologies, techniques and software
- Publish and present findings at national and international conferences
- Supervise research students, assistants and visiting fellows as required
Clinical Development
- Identify opportunities to improve treatment planning and imaging pathways, working within multidisciplinary teams
- Support the development and evaluation of new equipment, software and techniques to maximise patient benefit
- Develop and update clinical protocols, work instructions and procedures within area of expertise
Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement
- Work closely with clinical oncologists, radiographers, physicists and technologists to ensure services meet clinical, technical and quality standards
- Liaise with equipment manufacturers, external contractors and professional bodies, including national standards and guideline groups
- Communicate complex technical and clinical information clearly to a range of audiences, including non-specialist colleagues
- Participate in relevant departmental, CSU and national committees