Student Profile in PULSAR, Treatment Assessment, Multiomics, Machine Learning
Haozhao Zhang
Biomedical Engineering Graduate Program
Mentor: Hao Peng, Ph.D.
Undergraduate Degree: B.Sc. Medical Imaging Technology
Undergraduate Institution: Shandong First Medical University
Hometown: Tai'an, Shandong, China
Awards/Fellowships: Graduate: Duke Medical Physics Tuition Scholarship awarded by Medical Physics Graduate Program, Duke University and Duke Kunshan University, Excellence in Leadership awarded by Duke Graduate School; Undergraduate: China National Scholarship awarded by the Ministry of Education of the People's Republic of China, “Outstanding Graduates” awarded by the Shandong Provincial Education Department, Student Research Training Program Fund awarded by China National Students’ Platform for Innovation and Entrepreneurship Training Program, Third Prize awarded by the 16th ‘Challenge Cup’ Shandong College Students’ Extracurricular Science and Technology Contest
How did you become interested in science and/or research?
When I started my undergraduate studies, I discovered the field of medical imaging and medical physics. I was fascinated by how this discipline combines cutting-edge knowledge with clinical applications that can help people better detect and treat diseases. What really drew me to this field was the realization that advances in medical imaging and physics could directly improve patient care and outcomes. I saw it as an opportunity to not only expand the frontiers of scientific knowledge but also to translate that knowledge into tangible benefits for patients. Moreover, I was excited by the vast scope and diverse range of research opportunities within this field. From developing new imaging techniques to optimizing treatment planning, I saw immense potential for making a meaningful impact on healthcare through innovation and discovery.
Please describe your research.
Personalized ultra-fractionated stereotactic adaptive radiotherapy (PULSAR) is emerging as a promising treatment method for brain metastases. An integral aspect of this approach involves adjusting treatment based on early tumor response to minimize the risks of over- or under-treatment. My research aims to create an AI-driven and data-based method to predict changes in tumor size during follow-up by utilizing features extracted from both anatomical images and dose maps. A unique aspect of PULSAR is that these features are obtained both before and during treatment, allowing for more precise and adaptive treatment planning.
Why did you choose UT Southwestern?
After completing my bachelor's degree in medical imaging and master's degree in medical physics, I gained a deeper understanding and appreciation for this field. I realized that to further advance my knowledge and skills, I needed a program that could provide me with exceptional learning opportunities and cutting-edge research facilities. UTSW's Biomedical Engineering program, particularly the medical physics track, stood out as the perfect fit for my aspirations. UTSW's reputation for excellence in education and research was a significant factor in my decision. The institution's commitment to fostering innovation, collaboration, and translational research aligned perfectly with my goals. I was impressed by the faculty's expertise and the program's strong emphasis on mentorship, which I believe is crucial for personal and professional growth. Furthermore, UTSW's close ties with world-renowned healthcare institutions and its location in a thriving medical district provided unparalleled opportunities for clinical exposure and real-world application of my research. The prospect of working alongside brilliant minds from diverse backgrounds and contributing to groundbreaking discoveries that could directly impact patient care was incredibly appealing to me. In summary, I chose UTSW for graduate school because of its outstanding BME program, exceptional reputation, commitment to innovation and collaboration, strong mentorship, and unrivaled opportunities for clinical exposure and translational research. I am confident that UTSW will provide me with the ideal environment to grow as a researcher and make meaningful contributions to the field of medical physics.
What do you think makes your program one of the best?
UTSW's radiation oncology team is among the world's pioneers in proposing the PULSAR treatment concept and conducting clinical trials. What's more, UTSW BME's Medical Artificial Intelligence and Automation (MAIA) Lab provides an ecosystem that facilitates AI research, clinical translation, education, and commercialization, offering a wide range of resources to support innovative projects like PULSAR.
What do you love about your Program?
UTSW is at the forefront of innovation in cancer treatment, with our radiation oncology team being among the world's pioneers in proposing the PULSAR treatment concept and conducting clinical trials. This cutting-edge research is supported by state-of-the-art facilities and a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment that fosters groundbreaking discoveries. Moreover, UTSW's Biomedical Engineering department is home to the Medical Artificial Intelligence and Automation (MAIA) Lab, which provides an ecosystem that facilitates AI research, clinical translation, education, and commercialization. This unique resource offers a wide range of support for innovative projects like PULSAR, enabling students to work at the intersection of AI and healthcare. What truly sets UTSW apart is its commitment to providing students with the necessary resources and support to thrive as rigorous scientists. The program encourages collaboration and knowledge sharing among students, faculty, and clinicians, creating a fertile ground for personal and professional growth. At UTSW, you will receive top-notch training that prepares you to tackle the most pressing challenges in biomedical research and translate your findings into real-world impact.
– Haozhao Zhang
