Medical Physics

November 7, 2025

UW Radiation Oncology Celebrates International Day of Medical Physics & Madame Curie Day – 2025

Today we honor Marie Curie, whose pioneering discoveries in radioactivity transformed science and laid the foundation for modern radiation oncology. As the first person to win two Nobel Prizes—in Physics and Chemistry—her legacy continues to inspire generations of scientists and physicians. At #UWRadOnc, we celebrate the contributions of women, and all those who have been traditionally underrepresented in science and medicine, who carry that legacy forward—advancing research, improving patient care, and mentoring the next generation of innovators. Here’s to curiosity, courage, and the pursuit of knowledge! #RadOnc #WomenWhoCurie #WeWhoCurie #UWRadOnc #UWMedicine #FredHutch #MedPhys

Jessica Fagerstrom is part of a national program called IF/THEN that is hoping to get more girls interested in STEM! A recent project was to 3D print orange statues of the women in the group, each holding a prop about her career. There were over 100 statues printed! The Smithsonian hosted the entire collection in 2022, and the statues have traveled around the country after that!! IF/THEN: She Can Change the World!

The Pacific Science Center, in Seattle, put together a “Science is for Everyone” exhibit. The exhibit is now hosting six of the statues of women from the PNW, including Jessica’s for medical physics. If you have kids interested and/or want to see, it’s near the tide pool exhibit.

Local news segment: https://www.fox13seattle.com/video/1382106

IF/THEN: What do we do?

Empower current STEM innovators and inspire the next generation of pioneers.

IF/THEN: Our Strategy for Change.

Rooted in a firm belief that there is no better time to highlight positive and successful female role models, IF/THEN is designed to activate a culture shift among young girls to open their eyes to STEM careers by:

#1

Funding and Elevating Women in STEM as Role Models.

We support current women innovators in STEM careers by providing grants and storytelling opportunities to lift them up as role models and STEM Ambassadors.

#2

Convening Cross-Sector Coalition Members

We are uniting a coalition of organizations in entertainment, fashion, sports, business and academia to illuminate the importance of STEM everywhere.

#3

Inspiring the Next Generation of World Changers

We inspire girls with better portrayals of women in STEM through media and learning experiences to pique their interest in STEM careers.