Program Overview

Course Overview

The course HL2003 Radiation Physics and Biology is a 6.0 credit course that provides a basic knowledge in the physical and biological effects of ionising radiation in tissue and an overview of methods for treatment optimisation to get the best therapy outcome.

Information per Course Offering

The course is offered in the Autumn semester, with the following details:

• Start date: 26 October 2026
• End date: 11 January 2027
• Duration: 26 October 2026 - 11 January 2027
• Periods: Autumn 2026: P2 (6 hp)
• Pace of study: 33%
• Application code: 10342
• Form of study: Normal Daytime
• Language of instruction: English

Course Contents

The course covers the following topics:

• Basic interaction processes of ionising radiation with matter
• Basic concepts of dosimetry, dosimetric quantities and units
• Accelerators for radiation therapy, principles of linear and circular accelerators
• Beam transport through treatment head to patient
• Optimal design of the therapy beam
• Principles of optimal treatment planning
• Algorithms for calculations of dose distribution in the patient
• Quality control and assurance
• Introduction to biology of the cell
• Basic chemical reactions in cells
• Lesions produced by radiation in DNA molecules
• Cell survival models
• Radiation effects on normal tissues and tumours
• The biological basis of radiotherapy, oxygen effect, dose rate dependence, dose fractionation

Intended Learning Outcomes

The aim of the course is to give a basic knowledge in radiation physics and biological effects of ionising radiation in order to understand the principles of radiation therapy.

Literature and Preparations

• Specific prerequisites: Bachelor's degree in technology or science, 4 credits in physics, 4 credits in anatomy and/or physiology, English 6/B
• Literature: Information about course literature can be found in the course memo for the course offering or in the course room in Canvas

Examination and Completion

• Grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F
• Examination: TEN1 - Examination, 6.0 credits, grading scale: A, B, C, D, E, FX, F
• Other requirements for final grade: Written examination and exercises
• Examiner: Massimiliano Colarieti Tosti

Ethical Approach

• All members of a group are responsible for the group's work
• In any assessment, every student shall honestly disclose any help received and sources used
• In an oral assessment, every student shall be able to present and answer questions about the entire assignment and solution

Further Information

• Course room in Canvas: Registered students find further information about the implementation of the course in the course room in Canvas
• Offered by: CBH/Biomedical Engineering and Health Systems
• Main field of study: Electrical Engineering
• Education cycle: Second cycle