Medical physics plays a vital role in nearly every aspect of modern healthcare. From diagnostic scans like CT imaging to advanced treatments such as radiotherapy, medical physics is behind the technology and precision that drive these procedures. In this video, we explore how medical physicists contribute to ensuring the right dose reaches the right patient—whether through imaging, therapy, or radiopharmaceuticals. You'll also learn how treatment is monitored and adjusted based on models that track patient progress before, during, and after care. Discover how this essential field is quietly transforming the way we diagnose and treat disease every day.

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Chris and I discuss the origins of the Thriving Earth Exchange, a program connecting scientific expertise with local community needs. The initiative began around 2016 with a young scientist's idea to address community challenges through scientific collaboration.

The program focuses on participatory, place-based science, where communities and scientists co-create solutions to local problems like water quality, soil contamination, and environmental challenges. Key to its success was flexible funding, support from the AGU board, and the leadership of Raj Pandya.

By 2019, the program had completed 100 projects benefiting 17 million people. Challenges included explaining the concept, finding the right scientists and communities, and measuring social impact beyond traditional financial metrics.

The Thriving Earth Exchange has since grown, expanded partnerships, and become an integral part of AGU's mission to extend scientific expertise to communities.

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I'm thrilled to share insights from a recent conversation with Dr. Ehsan Samei, Reed and Martha Rice Distinguished Professor of Radiology at Duke University. We discussed an exciting Grand Challenge I’m leading with the American Association of Physicists in Medicine—focused on identifying bold, breakthrough challenges that could shape the future of medical physics.

But what is medical physics? Its applications are vast—spanning MRI, lasers, ultrasound, AI, and nuclear medicine. As I’ve spoken with physicists dedicated to this field, I’ve been inspired by the incredible advancements on the horizon. From AI models to digital twins, the future of medical physics is unfolding in powerful ways.

During our conversation, Dr. Samei shared his perspective on developing AI models for medical applications. He echoed the famous phrase, “All models are wrong, but some are useful,” emphasizing that the goal is to find models that are truly impactful in advancing patient care.

Scientific breakthroughs don’t just improve technologies—they open doors to new research, innovative techniques, and deeper understanding. They prevent suffering, save lives, and reshape our world. It's a privilege to contribute to this transformative work.

Dr. Samei’s leadership has been pivotal in integrating physics principles into clinical practice, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in patient care. Listen in to learn more about this groundbreaking work!

For all the podcasts, highlight videos, resources, and everything you want to know about Grand Challenges, click visit grandchallenges.info