28.08.2009
Ramesh Boggula from India is studying Medical Physics at Heidelberg University

"When I go back to India, I will not only have a degree from one of the most renowned universities in the world, but I will also have a very well developed professional network" (© Baden-Württemberg International)

“I'm so lucky to have ended up in the radiotherapy department," believes Ramesh Boggula. After finishing his Master's degree in just a year in the International Master´s programme "Medical Physics with Distinction in Radiotherapy and Biomedical Optics" in Mannheim and Heidelberg, he is now working on his PhD in the same clinic. 

“The Master's programme was very intense, we had to work really hard, but it was worth it. Now my research is concentrated on developing techniques for advanced radiotherapy here in the Klinik für Strahlentherapie und Radioonkologie, Universitätsklinikum Mannheim. Many of my colleagues from India and other countries usually come to our clinic to get two to three weeks training on our radiation treatment planning systems and delivery machines. It is a very well equipped department with state-of-the-art technology and I think we are a model for other cancer research clinics. When I go back to India, I will not only have a degree from one of the most renowned universities in the world, but I will also have a very well developed professional network,” says Boggula proudly.

The medical physics field which is based on the understanding of the scientific principles of the interaction between radiation and the human body has fascinated Ramesh Boggula ever since he studied radiation physics. He believes that there is considerable potential for improving cancer cure rates over the next few years by the application of emerging technologies to radiotherapy. 

Boggula believes that Heidelberg University is the only university in the country, perhaps around the globe, to offer such a unique programme in medical physics. He finds the course and curriculum very well organized and comprehensive and is thankful for a rewarding educational experience. "The laboratory and course work during my graduate course have not only helped me to improve my experimental skills and analytical abilities, they have also increased my passion for research," says Ramesh. 

Since completing his Master´s thesis in the Klinik für Strahlentherapie und Radioonkologie, Universitätsklinikum Mannheim, he has had plenty of opportunity to get exposure to the hospital environment and healthcare functionality in all its complex depths. Active involvement in various projects has motivated his research work and also helped him to identify his field of interest. The excellent infrastructure, state-of-the-art technologies and the eminent faculty in the department were a perfect combination for Ramesh Boggula to work in his field of interest. "This institute was just the right place to embark upon my PhD," he concludes with a smile.