Diagnostic Medical Physicist @ University of Virginia

Help shape the next generation of diagnostic imaging at UVA Health while advancing the safe, effective use of radiation across a complex academic health system.

The Department of Radiology and Medical Imaging is seeking a Diagnostic Medical Physicist to join a seasoned, collaborative team supporting clinical imaging physics throughout UVA Health. This is an opportunity to combine technical expertise, clinical consultation, quality assurance, education, and regulatory oversight while working with sophisticated imaging technologies and a wide range of healthcare professionals.

The Role

Reporting to the Chief Medical Physicist, you will help ensure that radiation-producing equipment is used safely and effectively to deliver accurate diagnostic information. Your work will span UVA Imaging and affiliated UVA Health facilities, with responsibilities that can shift quickly based on clinical priorities, equipment needs, and technology implementation.

An average day may include completing a state inspection of a CT scanner, troubleshooting an imaging quality-control concern, and advising a contractor during the installation of new equipment. You will work closely with radiologists, physicians, technologists, nurses, residents, medical students, contractors, and other clinical and technical partners.

Key responsibilities include

• Perform acceptance testing, calibration, safety surveys, and state inspections of X-ray-producing and diagnostic imaging equipment.
• Develop and oversee quality-control programs across areas such as radiology and cardiology.
• Measure and characterize radiation output, evaluate patient dose, and support accurate dosimetry.
• Consult with radiologists regarding patient or fetal radiation exposure, imaging studies, and radiation safety.
• Advise physicians and patients on radiation exposure when specialized consultation is needed.
• Troubleshoot equipment performance and imaging quality concerns.
• Support the installation, testing, and clinical implementation of new imaging technologies.
• Advance techniques that improve image quality while maintaining an appropriate balance between diagnostic benefit and radiation risk.
• Ensure compliance with applicable federal and Commonwealth of Virginia regulations and support modality accreditation.
• Teach and mentor within the Diagnostic Medical Physics Residency Program.
• Deliver education to diagnostic radiology residents, medical students, graduate students, physicians, nurses, technologists, and other healthcare professionals.
• Contribute to committees focused on radiation safety, research, quality improvement, and human investigations involving radiation exposure.

Candidates must hold a master’s or doctoral degree in Medical Physics or a related field and have completed a Medical Physics residency or achieved applicable board certification. Board certification through the American Board of Radiology or another applicable specialty board is required within two years, along with the ability to obtain a Virginia Department of Health X-ray Private Inspector License within one year. At least one year of experience is preferred.

Why UVA Health

At UVA Health, medical physics is integrated into patient care, clinical education, technology implementation, and the continuous advancement of diagnostic imaging. You will join a team-oriented group whose members support one another while maintaining a shared commitment to patient and operator safety.

This position offers broad exposure rather than a narrowly defined assignment. You will have opportunities to:

• Help prepare for the arrival and implementation of a new Photon Counting CT expected in early 2027.
• Contribute to advanced Cone Beam CT work, including applications associated with fluoroscopically guided cardiac interventions.
• Work across a diverse range of imaging equipment, modalities, clinical services, and UVA Health locations.
• Combine clinical problem-solving with technology evaluation, quality assurance, regulatory compliance, and education.
• Support the continued development of UVA’s Diagnostic Medical Physics Residency Program.
• Collaborate within the academic environment of the University of Virginia and its School of Medicine.
• Participate in a department exploring the transition of Diagnostic Medical Physicist positions to Open Rank Faculty appointments, subject to institutional review and final approval.
• Build meaningful relationships with clinical, academic, technical, and operational partners throughout the health system.

Relocation assistance may be available for qualified candidates.

Why People Love Living in Charlottesville

Charlottesville offers a distinctive combination of natural beauty, cultural energy, and everyday livability. Located near the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Park, the area provides convenient access to hiking, cycling, wineries, scenic drives, and year-round outdoor recreation. A nationally recognized food scene, live music, arts, historic communities, and the energy of the University of Virginia create plenty to explore without the congestion of a major metropolitan area. For healthcare professionals and families, Charlottesville offers an appealing environment in which to build both a rewarding career and a well-balanced life.

APPOINTMENTS

The Radiology Department is in the process of transitioning the Diagnostic Medical Physicist positions with affiliated unpaid Instructor appointments to Open Rank Faculty positions within the School of Medicine. While this transition is awaiting institutional review and final approval, the initiative reflects the Department's commitment to expanding academic career opportunities and strengthening its educational, clinical, and scholarly missions.

REQUIREMENTS

• PhD or MS degree in Medical Physics or a related field.
• One year of experience is preferred.
• Board certification by the American Board of Radiology or other applicable specialty board within two years.
• Ability to obtain a Virginia Department of Health X-ray Private Inspector License within one year.

Job duties require standing for prolonged periods (up to four hours), often while wearing a protective apron. The position may involve exposure to radiation. Frequent bending/stooping and repetitive or extensive overhead reaching may be required. Strong verbal communication skills and excellent auditory and visual abilities are essential. Candidates must demonstrate attention to detail and the ability to write legibly. The ability to lift, push, or pull 20–50 lbs is required. Candidates must also be able to drive, travel short distances by automobile, and transport equipment.

The pay range for this role is $172,078.40 - $275,329.60 annually. Individual compensation will be determined by the selected candidate's qualifications, previous work experience, and/or education.

Benefits

• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• Generous Paid Time Off
• Retirement Savings
• Long-term and Short-term Disability
• Health Saving Plans, and Flexible Spending Accounts
• Certification and Education Support

UVA Health is a world-class Magnet Recognized academic medical center and health system with a level 1 trauma center. 2023-2024 U.S. News & World Report “Best Hospitals” guide rates UVA Health University Medical Center as “High Performing” in 5 adult specialties and 14 conditions/procedures. We are one of 70 National Cancer Institute designated cancer centers. UVA Health Children’s is named by 2023-2024 U.S. News & World Report as the best children's hospital in Virginia with 9 specialties ranked among the best in the nation. Our footprint also encompasses 3 community hospitals and an integrated network of primary and specialty care clinics throughout Charlottesville, Culpeper, Northern Virginia, and beyond.

The University of Virginia is an equal opportunity employer. All interested persons are encouraged to apply, including veterans and individuals with disabilities. Learn more about UVA’s commitment to non-discrimination and equal opportunity employment.