Karen Mooney

Dr. Karen Mooney has led transformative projects in the field of medical physics, particularly in adaptive radiation therapy and interprofessional image verification. As a Clinical Assistant Professor at Thomas Jefferson University, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role as Program Director for the Medical Physics Residency program. Her academic journey began with a PhD in MRI Physics from the University of Virginia, followed by a clinical physics residency at Washington University. She further honed her expertise with a post-doctoral fellowship in Radiation Oncology at the University of Maryland. Dr. Mooney's research interests are deeply embedded in the advancement of adaptive radiation therapy techniques. Her work has been pivotal in the development of stereotactic MR-guided on-table adaptive radiation therapy, particularly for challenging cases such as pancreatic cancer. Her contributions to the field are well-documented through numerous peer-reviewed publications, which have garnered attention for their innovative approaches and practical applications. In addition to her academic responsibilities, Dr. Mooney plays a crucial role in the clinical setting. She holds hospital appointments as the Director of the Division of Medical Physics Residency Program and serves as the Lead MRI Linear Accelerator Physicist. These positions allow her to bridge the gap between theoretical research and practical implementation, ensuring that cutting-edge techniques are effectively translated into clinical practice. Dr. Mooney is also committed to fostering interprofessional collaboration, as evidenced by her involvement in image verification workshops. These workshops are designed to enhance the skills of medical professionals across various disciplines, promoting a more integrated approach to patient care. Her dedication to education and mentorship is reflected in her efforts to cultivate the next generation of medical physicists through her leadership in the residency program. Her contributions to the field have not only advanced the science of medical physics but have also improved patient outcomes through more precise and adaptive treatment methodologies. Dr. Mooney's work continues to inspire both her colleagues and students, as she remains at the forefront of innovation in medical physics.