The Particle Therapy Masterclass stands as a cornerstone within the International Physics Masterclasses (flagship project of IPPOG). Coordinated by GSI Helmholtzzentrum für Schwerionenforschung in Darmstadt, Germany, these masterclasses showcase the direct translation of fundamental research into revolutionary medical applications.

 

What is the Aim of the PTMC?

The Particle Therapy Masterclass seeks to emphasise the profound impact of fundamental research on society, delving into the application of particle knowledge in medical contexts, such as PET scanning. Utilising the MatRad software toolkit from the German Cancer Research Center DKFZ in Heidelberg, students explore the intricate connection between particle physics and cutting-edge medical practices.

A Day in the Life of PTMC

Following the established format of the International Masterclasses program, PTMC unfolds simultaneously at up to 5 different institutes or universities in a single day. Participants engage in hands-on sessions, employing professional research tools and techniques, culminating in a collaborative video-conference meeting to dissect and discuss their findings.

Why Children Should Participate

The primary objective of the Particle Therapy Masterclass is to immerse students in the intricacies of radiotherapy treatment planning. By becoming a researcher for a day, participants gain firsthand insights into the significance of research. Connecting with scientists and researchers involved in monumental experiments adds an extra layer of fascination to the experience.

How It Works

Experts unveil the marriage of fundamental research and medical therapy using x-rays, protons, or carbon ions as precision instruments guided by sophisticated software programs. Demonstrations with the matRad software toolkit provide a glimpse into the intricate steps of treatment planning for cancer therapy, including the selection of scanning modalities, particle beams, and dosage.

For more information, visit: https://indico.cern.ch/event/840212/