Radiation Oncology Division
Albert Koong, M.D., Ph.D.
Division Head
The goal of MD Anderson's Radiation Oncology division is to provide compassionate, state-of-the-art, innovative, high-quality radiation treatment to our patients in the safest possible manner. Our radiation oncologists are recognized internationally for their excellence in patient care and research. We deliver specialized, cutting-edge care by advancing clinical treatment studies, laboratory research, radiation physics and education.
Our radiation oncologists and radiation physicists develop plans for individualized treatment by collaborating closely with our multidisciplinary medical and surgical oncology partners to provide top-ranked care and enhance health outcomes. At MD Anderson, we use a spectrum of cutting-edge technology and advanced radiotherapy techniques, many pioneered by our world-renowned faculty, in order to treat tumors effectively while reducing side effects of treatment.
Our team of expert radiation oncologists, radiation therapists, dosimetrists and physicists are committed to the quality of our care, and we hold the prestigious ACR (American College of Radiology) and ASTRO (American Society of Radiation Oncology) accreditations recognizing highest quality radiation oncology services.
Services We Provide
Our tools and expertise allow us to offer patients the most effective and advanced radiation treatments available, including new therapies that reduce or eliminate some of the side effects of radiation treatment. Learn more about our services.
Treatment Locations
Along with our Texas Medical Center location, we serve communities across the greater Houston area, West Houston, Sugar Land, The Woodlands, League City and Galveston. View a list of our treatment locations.
Education and Training
Radiation Oncology Summer Research Program
This summer research opportunity is a 10-week program that offers hands-on experience in radiation oncology research. Possible research experiences span a wide spectrum, including but not limited to laboratory-based scientific studies, large dataset analyses and review of patient clinical or imaging data.
Students will be matched with a mentor from the MD Anderson Cancer Center Radiation Oncology division based on shared interests and project availability.
Throughout the summer, students will participate in radiation oncology-specific as well as institution-wide programming to help familiarize students with oncology broadly and radiation oncology specifically. The program concludes with our annual Radiation Oncology Summer Research Symposium where participants present talks and posters on their research projects to peers and faculty.
Students who participate in this program will be introduced to the field of radiation oncology, have opportunities to learn about and engage in oncology research, and be afforded opportunities to establish mentorship relationships that may last well beyond the summer.
Eligibility & Requirements
Students who are currently enrolled in (or have a letter of acceptance to):
- High school (Must be 18 years of age by the time of the appointment)
- College/university
- Post-baccalaureate program
- Medical School (MS1)
Dates & Work Schedule
- The program will run from June 5, 2023 to August 11, 2023. Flexibility in start and end dates can be discussed.
- Applicants should be available for the full 10 weeks and be able to commit at least 30 hours/week to this position
- Appointments are typically uncompensated.
Application Information
Applications are open December 1, 2022 and close February 3, 2023. Email Denise De La Cruz, Ed.D., at ddlcruz@mdanderson.org to apply.
The following information will be required:
- Personal information, including contact information and address
- Transcript from current institution (or most recent institution in case of recent graduate)
- Personal statement
- One letter of reference from someone who has taught you or worked with you on a research project.
For more information, please contact Denise De La Cruz, Ed.D., at ddlcruz@mdanderson.org or (832) 305-1753.
Advanced Radiation Oncology Fellowship
The Advanced Radiation Oncology Fellowship offers a unique one- to two-year clinical training opportunity that is tailored to the specific site/research interests and career needs of the fellow.
The curriculum is individualized to expand clinical and research experience, and cultivate familiarity with the application of specific modalities.
Fellows can focus on up to five disease sites, specific to their interests to gain greater depth of knowledge and skills in these areas. Read more about the Radiation Oncology Fellowship.
Radiation Oncology Residency
The Radiation Oncology Residency is a four-year program. The contract for continuation of training is reviewed annually and based on satisfactory clinical management and completion of patient care responsibilities, as well as demonstrated progression in the six ACGME Core Competencies. Read more about the Radiation Oncology Residency.
Radiation Oncology Medical Student Elective Rotation
MD Anderson Cancer Center offers clinical rotations in Radiation Oncology to medical students enrolled at accredited US medical schools. We encourage students interested in pursuing radiation oncology as a career to inquire.
The rotation offers the opportunity to interact with faculty and trainees within the division at one of the largest comprehensive cancer centers in the world. Read more about the rotation.
Research Training in Radiation Oncology
The Radiation Oncology department offers compensated and uncompensated research training opportunities for eligible trainees. Opportunities are by invitation only.
If you have been invited by one of our faculty members, view the pre-screening instructions and complete the form.
Observership in Radiation Oncology
Clinical observerships are temporarily suspended. Please contact Denise De La Cruz, Ed.D., at ddlcruz@mdanderson.org if you have questions or if you wish to inquire.
Radiation Oncology Medical Student Summer Research Program
This summer research program aims to expose medical students interested in radiation oncology to the clinical and research aspects of the field. During this 10-week program, students are mentored by a faculty member in the Radiation Oncology department who will guide them in the completion of a research project intended for presentation at the end of the program.
Throughout the summer, students also have opportunities to attend lectures and workshops to increase their knowledge of and exposure to careers in oncology and research. Read more about the Medical Student Summer Research Program.
Notice regarding CMS COVID-19 Vaccination Mandate for Health Care Workers:
All trainees appointed at MD Anderson will be required to provide proof of vaccination or exemption during the application process. Please note that review/approval of exemptions will take at least 10 business days.