Development and validation of dynamic couch system for real-time adaptive radiotherapy on a general-purpose linear accelerator

More than 50% of cancer patients receive radiotherapy (RT) as part of their treatment. Accurate tumour positioning during RT is crucial for effective therapy. However, physiological and involuntary patient movements during dose delivery can lead to suboptimal targeting and unintended high doses to healthy tissues, compromising treatment efficacy and increasing toxicity risks. Over 98% of RT patients worldwide are treated with general-purpose linear accelerators (linacs), which lack real-time target position adaptation.

This project aims to develop and validate a Dynamic Couch system, a moveable patient couch that adjusts in real time during RT to compensate for motion, ensuring precise tumour positioning. This system will enable safer reductions in safety margins, lowering radiation exposure to critical structures and minimizing toxicity. By project completion, a prototype will be ready for clinical trials.

The Dynamic Couch system will enhance RT precision for >98% of patients, improving tumour control and reducing treatment-related toxicity.

This project is in collaboration with South Western Sydney Local Health District and is part of the prestigious National Industry PhD program providing the successful candidate with access to the Campus Plus national network, including a cohort of other National Industry PhD participants. Through this network, they will benefit from tailored professional development opportunities, industry connections and a strong professional community.

Scholarship:
~$56,206 p.a. tax free
This includes: UNSW scholarship, industry and NIPhD top-ups.

Eligibility Criteria:
Open to domestic and international candidates.

Who we are looking for:

• Master’s or Honours degree in Science (Physics/Medical Physics) or Engineering (Biomedical/Mechanical/Software).
• Strong background in developing software-controlled automated tracking systems.
• Proficiency in programming (Python, Arduino, or other embedded systems) for sensor-actuated movements.
• Expertise in optimizing linear actuator performance for real-time tracking systems.
• Knowledge of medical equipment/software testing and process control.
• Strong background in Radiation Oncology Medical Physics, advanced clinical dosimetry is desirable.
• Passion for developing patient-centric innovations to enhance radiotherapy accuracy.
• Must be prepared to undergo mandatory onboarding requirements of NSW Health.

Further information:
For more information about this project please contact Associate Professor Sankar Arumugam Sankar.Arumugam@health.nsw.gov.au

How to apply:
Please contact A/Prof Arumugam addressing selection criteria, a copy of your CV, academic transcripts and your motivation. 

Information on the application process can be found here HDR Application Process

Application deadline: Open until filled