Get to Know: Medical Physicist David Chamberlain

Our medical physicist David Chamberlain has more than 15 years of experience in medical physics and works closely with members of the CyberKnife^® clinical team to support treatment planning and other aspects of the treatment process.

Read more about his experiences at Reno CyberKnife:

What inspired you to become a medical physicist? 

I always wanted to go into medicine. My father was also a medical physicist, and he thought it would be good for me due to my background in physics and math. After I researched it, I realized it was a perfect fit for my science background and my desire to help people through medicine.

What do you like best about your job? 

Every day is different. I enjoy taking on new challenges each day I come to work. Most of all, I enjoy seeing how we can help our patients, and working to cure them or improve their quality of life.

Describe one of your most memorable experiences since you began working at Reno CyberKnife.

My most memorable experience include when we first installed the CyberKnife unit and the excitement of adding this new technology in the Reno area. I also enjoy working with our physicians and collaborating on patient treatment plans.

What do you feel is the most important thing that Reno CyberKnife offers? 

CyberKnife provides a new option to patients who previously may have been unable to receive treatment. For example, patients who are receiving treatment after another option was unsuccessful would not be able to undergo conventional radiation therapy. Along these lines, CyberKnife is able to deliver a high dose of radiation so precisely that damage to healthy tissue is minimized, something that was unheard of in the past.

How do you stay abreast of the latest medical developments?

We are involved with clinical trials and working closely with experts in the field. Each year, we attend meetings with physicians and physicists around the world to collaborate on safety, treatment efficacy and experiences. Continuing education events are vital in our field to stay abreast of new technology and new treatment options. Regularly reading research journals is also imperative within our field and a necessity in any radiation oncology department.