R&D Medical Physicist

Together, we can beat cancer.

At Varian, a Siemens Healthineers Company, we bring together the world's best talent to realize our vision of a world without fear of cancer. Together, we work passionately to develop and deliver easy-to-use, efficient oncology solutions.

We are part of an incredible community of scientists, clinicians, developers, researchers, professionals, and skilled specialists pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, to improve people’s lives around the world. We embrace a culture of inclusivity in which the power and potential of every individual can be unleashed. We spark ideas that lead to positive impact and continued success.

If you want to be part of this important mission, we want to hear from you.

If you are a passionate professional who thrives on unraveling intricate challenges and is relentlessly crafting cutting-edge solutions, this could be the perfect opportunity for you to shine. We are seeking a highly motivated Research & Development (R&D) Medical Physicist to join our dynamic team. In this role, every innovation you drive, and every problem you solve, brings us closer to our shared goal, a world without fear of cancer. Also, you will witness firsthand how your innovations directly save lives globally.

The ideal candidate will utilize Monte Carlo radiation transport techniques, a profound understanding of general and radiation physics, and engineering principles, to solve complex problems and devise innovative solutions for our Linac-based radiation delivery products. This role is requiring the successful candidate to reside in Palo Alto or near the Palo Alto area to support this role 100% on-site.

Join us and play a pivotal role in a mission that truly matters!

Key Responsibilities

• Apply comprehensive knowledge of general and radiation physics, as well as engineering principles, to innovate and resolve intricate technical issues, with keen attention to detail, efficiency, business requirements, company values, and governing medical device development regulations.
• Utilize Monte Carlo radiation transport techniques to model radiation delivery geometries, design shielding and collimation systems (MLC, electron applicators, SRS cones), and predict radiation beam (high dose) and leakage (low dose) characteristics.
• Design and implement experimental test plans to characterize x-ray and electron beams using dosimetric techniques and equipment such as 3D scanning phantoms, 2D arrays, film, solid-state detectors, and ion chambers, which takes into account medical physics workflows, commissioning and quality assurance (QA) methods, statistical measurement uncertainties, and engineering tolerances.
• Employ data, signal, and image processing to evaluate identifiable factors and make independent, informed judgments in solving intricate technical and business challenges.
• Provide physics leadership to cross-functional teams composed of mechanical, electrical, embedded, software, and manufacturer engineers.
• Investigate and resolve escalated issues associated with treatment delivery systems in conjunction with treatment planning and imaging sourced from clinical partners, field operations, and manufacturing.
• Execute daily tasks independently, demonstrating critical thinking, problem-solving, and self-organizational skills. This involves proper planning, prioritization, documentation, and adherence to timelines, project goals, values, and business needs.
  
  

Minimum Required Skills And Knowledge

• PhD degree, MS degree with three years, or BS degree with five years of related experience in medical physics, physics, engineering, or related disciplines, and/or
• Proficiency with Monte Carlo simulations of radiation transport (GEANT4) pertinent to radiotherapy.
• Familiarity of radiation dosimetry principles, techniques, and measurement devices.
• Understanding of working principles of the medical linear accelerator, including electron and X-ray beam generation, monitoring, controls, and beam collimation.
• Excellent problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
• Excellent writing, verbal communication, and presentation skills.
• Proficient in utilizing business tools such as E-mail, Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Experience with HCM (e.g., Workday) or equivalent ERP product and productivity software desired.
• Passion for our mission and values.
  
  

What will set you apart?

• Proven skills using Monte Carlo radiation transport codes through scientific publications.
• Have related academic or industrial experience.
• Demonstrable ability to create innovative hardware, software, or analytical solutions, as evidenced through publications, scientific conferences, patents, or alternative platforms such as blogs, wikis, forums, etc.
• Experience with dosimetric techniques employed in Linac commissioning, plan verification, and machine quality assurance (QA).
• Proficiency with radiotherapy treatment planning systems, including source modeling, creating 3D or modulated plans, optimization techniques, dose calculation algorithms, and dosimetric validation.
• Familiarity with underlying medical physics guidelines and medical device regulations, such as those provided by the AAPM, ICRU, and IAEA, as well as IEC standards 60601-2-1 and 60976.
  
  

Fighting cancer calls for big ideas.

We envision a world without fear of cancer. Achieving this vision takes dedication and commitment from all of us, every single day. That's why we celebrate and value the distinctly beautiful and intersectional identities of each of our employees. We are a mirror of our patient-base, which allows us to innovate. Big ideas come from everywhere, and the best ideas are fostered by our unique individual experiences. At Varian, we encourage you to bring your whole self to work and believe your bold and authentic perspective will help to power more victories over cancer.

TogetherWeFight

Privacy Statement

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Varian is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer encouraging diversity in the workplace. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship status, ancestry, sex, age, physical or mental disability unrelated to ability, marital status, family responsibilities, pregnancy, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, transgender, sex stereotyping, order of protection status, protected veteran or military status, or an unfavorable discharge from military service, and other categories protected by federal, state or local law.

EEO is the Law

Applicants and employees are protected under Federal law from discrimination. To learn more, Click here.

Pay Transparency Non-Discrimination Provision

Varian follows Executive Order 11246, including the Pay Transparency Nondiscrimination Provision. To learn more, Click here.

The base pay range for this position is

Min $127,600 - Max $229,700

The pay wage range shown is based on the job posting's primary location. Actual compensation packages are based on a wide array of factors, including but not limited to skill set, experience, certifications, and location.