High school seniors and teachers from public and private schools in São Paulo were invited to take part in a two-day immersion exploring how particle physics is applied in radiotherapy for cancer, during the International Masterclass Hands on Particle Physics..
The event featured activities that demonstrated the practical applications of knowledge students acquire in school—such as physics, chemistry, and biology—highlighting the interdisciplinary nature of these subjects.
The activities were offered by the University of São Paulo (USP) as part of the International Physics Masterclasses program, organized by the International Particle Physics Outreach Group (IPPOG) and coordinated by GSI Helmholtzzentrum für Schwerionenforschung GmbH (GSI Helmholtz Center for Heavy Ion Research).
The first day, held at USP’s Institute of Physics (IFUSP), included a lecture on Medical Physics by Prof. Paulo Costa (IFUSP) and a historical overview of oncology leading up to the development of what we now call Precision Oncology, presented by Prof. Roger Chammas (Faculdade de Medicina da USP – FMUSP). Dr. Victor Bertotti Ribeiro, a medical physicist at the Institute of Radiology (InRad) of the Hospital das Clínicas (HC FMUSP), gave a talk on the types and characteristics of particles used in radiotherapy, emphasizing the challenge of ensuring both safety and effectiveness of the treatment. All sessions included time for student questions.
Next, students were trained in using a radiotherapy simulation software to explore treatment applications in cancer therapy. They also participated in a quiz to reinforce the information presented. The students had the opportunity to compare the effects of photon-based therapy—commonly used worldwide—with particle therapies, such as protons and carbon ions, which are still under development in a few research centers around the world. This training was offered by Vitor Premero and Wagner Marques, undergraduate students in Medical Physics at USP and research interns.
After the training, students applied their knowledge in practice by simulating radiotherapy treatments on a virtual patient using the software, gaining firsthand experience of the complexity involved in delivering care.
On the second day, the group visited the São Paulo State Cancer Institute (ICESP). In the morning, there was a discussion session for students and teachers to reflect on what they had learned the day before and to talk about the overall impact of the experience.
Among the key takeaways mentioned by the students were: applying knowledge acquired in school; their first contact with USP and the public university system; the desire to pursue higher education; and the realization that academic knowledge has a social function—it is not only for personal career building but also serves the broader society. They also highlighted the immense responsibility carried by Medical Physics professionals, who must ensure the quality and safety of radiotherapy treatments.
Students also participated in an international round of presentations, where they presented their work and attended presentations by students and teachers from other countries who also took part in the International Physics Masterclasses program.
To wrap up the program, students visited the Center for Translational Research in Oncology (CTO) to get a glimpse of a research laboratory focused on oncology.
Prof. Paulo Costa reflected on the relevance and impact of the event: “The Masterclass was extremely stimulating and exciting for everyone—students and teachers alike. Over these two days, high school students were able to engage in a playful and creative experience that connects two major scientific fields: Physics and Medicine. Through lectures, computer simulations, and interactive games, they got a taste of what it’s like to work as a Medical Physicist in Radiotherapy, and the importance of accurate diagnosis and treatment of cancer.”
Prof. Roger Chammas emphasized the importance of showing students the wide range of opportunities available at public universities:
“Beyond their excellence in education and professional training, public universities in São Paulo have robust infrastructure for the development and advancement of research. Institutions like USP are true incubators of opportunity for young scientists.”
