Interview with Sofie Gregersen

Sofie Gregersen is a Medical Physicist at Medicoteknik

Where did you graduate from and with which degree?

I have a MSc degree in Physics from University of Southern Denmark (SDU).

Please give a description of the work you do in your current position.

I am currently employed as a medical physicist in diagnostic radiology. In the field of diagnostic radiology, imaging modalities based on x-rays, magnetic resonance and ultrasound are used to look into the human body to make a diagnosis or for guidance during intervention or operation.

I mainly work with x-ray modalities such as conventional x-ray machines, CT scanners and fluoroscopy systems. Since x-rays are ionizing radiation, an important part of my job is to ensure radiation protection of staff and patients. This is done by monitoring doses and optimizing equipment protocols as well as workflows. Other important parts of the job are quality assurance of equipment, teaching x-ray physics and radiation protection to clinicians, ensuring that everything complies with the legislation and taking part in purchasing new equipment.

To ensure that we are up to date with the newest technologies, we are expected to continue taking courses, reading articles and attending congresses.

What motivated you to study physics or engineering in the first place?

Like many other physicists, I am a curious person, very interested in the world around me and how everything works. The first time I stepped into the physics room in school, I felt at home.

What made you decide to pursue a career in the public sector?

I ended up here by chance. I was working on an outreach project promoting physics to children and teenagers. A job I took both because I find it important to inspire the next generation to study natural sciences, but also to do something fun after studying for years. When the grant expired, I saw the job posting for a medical physicist and found it exciting. I like working in an interdisciplinary environment, helping the clinicians to achieve the best results with their equipment and secure a safe working environment.

How do you use the skills you learned as a physicist or engineer in your work?

Medical physics builds on the basic physics you learn in university. So I have used the physics I have learned as well as study techniques.

What does being a physicist or engineer mean to you?

Being a curious person who wants to understand the world and use the gained knowledge to overcome obstacles around us.

What advice would you give to young people (in particular women and minorities) with a background in physics or engineering who would like to pursue a career in the public sector?

If you find a job posting that excites you, apply for the job. You might be the lucky number one.