Chair of Medical Biophysics renewed

We are delighted to announce the renewal of Dr. Jerry Battista in his role as Chair of the Department of Medical Biophysics, at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry. Dr. Battista's term will commence July 1, 2009 and will continue until June 30, 2015. The 6 year term allows for a year of administrative leave from July 1, 2010 until June 30, 2011.

Since 1988, Dr. Battista has been directing Medical Physics Research at the London Regional Cancer Program, London Health Sciences Centre. He is Professor of Medical Biophysics at the University of Western Ontario, with cross-appointments to the Departments of Oncology, Physics & Astronomy, Medical Imaging, and the Biomedical Engineering Program. He became Head of the Division of Radiation Oncology at Western in 1994, and Chair of Medical Biophysics in 2004.

Dr. Battista's current research is done in collaboration with scientists at the London Regional Cancer Program, Lawson Health Research Institute, Robarts Research Institute, and Ryerson University. The topics include 3D radiation dose measurements in gels using optical CT scanning, quantitative kV and MV CT imaging, and optimizing algorithms for adaptive radiotherapy. He has published over 95 peer-reviewed articles and has co-authored major research grants, including one pending with the Ontario Research Fund on "Adaptive Interventions in Oncology", in collaboration with Ontario researchers and industrial partners. He participates in the CIHR Strategic Training Program in Oncology.

Jerry is an award winning teacher at Western. He has mentored many graduate students, some who now lead the field of modern radiotherapy of cancer. His enthusiastic style brings physics concepts to a wide range of audiences with diverse backgrounds, including medical residents, students at all levels, and the general public. He was nominated by his past graduate students for "Best Lecturer" award sponsored by TV Ontario.

Please join us in congratulating Dr. Jerry Battista on his second term as Chair of the Department of Medical Biophysics.

Sincerely,

Carol P. Herbert
Dean
Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry