Name: Rachel Linnane
Course: BSc (Hons) Medical Technology
Year Graduated: 2022
Brief description of your job: Medical Physicist – UPMC Hillman Cancer Centre, Whitfield
Performing routine quality assurance tests to maintain the linear accelerators in the radiotherapy department ensuring accurate and consistent output. Processing complex patient imaging data and collaborating with the multi-disciplinary team to develop radiotherapy treatment plans for patients. Conducting seed activity checks to confirm the strength of radioactive sources prior to implantation in Brachytherapy.
Why did you choose your course?
I always knew I wanted to work in healthcare and to make a positive difference in people’s lives, however I wasn’t entirely sure what area of healthcare I wanted to work in. The medical technology course in TUS appealed to me because it focuses on the medical applications of engineering, science and technology and offers a unique blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills that are essential for real world healthcare challenges. This course was a natural fit for me because it allowed me to combine my passion for healthcare with my interest in engineering and technology and I knew it would allow me to keep my options open in terms of further study / employment.
What do you like most about your course?
I liked the broad nature of the Medical Technology course. Studying modules such as physics , anatomy, radiation safety, standards and accreditation, decontamination in healthcare, diagnostic imaging and radiotherapy meant that I was able to gain an in depth understanding of the medical device industry.
Apart from your course, what do you like most about TUS?
Apart from the course, I liked how welcoming and supportive the environment in TUS is. The class sizes are small which made it easy to engage in the lectures, and the lecturers are very approachable, so I was never afraid to ask questions!
Beyond academics, there is always something going on in the college such as SU events, career fairs, volunteering opportunities and sports events, this was nice because there was always something to get involved in!
How has your degree helped you in your career?
The knowledge I gained from this course allowed me to consider multiple career options.
Since completing the course in 2022, I have continued my studies and gained a master’s in medical physics from the University of Galway in 2024. I am currently working as a Radiotherapy Medical Physicist in the Hillman Cancer Centre in UPMC Waterford.
The medical technology course taught me the fundamentals of medical imaging modalities and cancer therapies, as well as the various aspects related to the day-to-day management of medical equipment such as CT scanners and Linear Accelerators which is essential for a career in medical physics.
What advice would you give someone considering studying this course?
I really enjoyed my time in TUS and would highly recommend this course to anyone that has an interest in healthcare and technology.
Whether you aspire to work in the medical device industry, pursue advanced studies, or embark on a career as a medical physicist, this course equips you with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel. Its multi-disciplinary approach ensures you are thoroughly prepared for a diverse range of career opportunities.