Diagnostic and Nuclear Medical Physics
Advancing Diagnostic Imaging: Excellence in Clinical, Educational, and Research Endeavors
The division of diagnostic and nuclear medical physics provides essential support for the safe and effective use of advanced imaging technologies, including both radiation-producing modalities like CT and non-ionizing systems such as MRI. Our team of three PhD medical physicists, recognized as experts in CT, MRI, and nuclear medicine, ensures the highest standards of diagnostic imaging quality, patient safety, and adherence to regulatory and technological advancements.
Along with clinical expertise, our faculty are deeply committed to education. They actively teach in the Medical Physics Graduate Program (MS, PhD), manage the diagnostic imaging physics residency program, and provide instruction to radiology residents. These educational programs are central to our division’s mission, offering hands-on training, mentorship, and academic coursework that prepare future medical physicists and radiologists for leadership roles in their fields.
In addition to clinical and educational duties, our division is at the forefront of cutting-edge research. We are actively involved in projects that include the application of AI in image denoising and radiomics, as well as the optimization of diagnostic protocols. Our research aims to improve image quality, enhance diagnostic accuracy, and advance patient care, ensuring our division remains a leader in medical physics and diagnostic imaging innovation.
The division is also part of the radiological medical physics program of the College of Medicine. We believe in fostering strong partnerships with healthcare providers and industry stakeholders to drive advancements in imaging technologies and practices. Through outreach initiatives, collaborative research projects, and community engagement, we aim to enhance the impact of our work and contribute positively to the healthcare landscape.
Division Chief
Jie Zhang, PhD, DABR (D, N), FAAPM
Positions Held:
- Professor of Radiology and Biomedical Engineering
- Chief, Division of Diagnostic & Nuclear Medical Physics
- Director, Diagnostic Imaging Physics Residency Program
Division Faculty and Staff
Azmul Siddique, MS
Positions Held:
- Diagnostic Medical Physicist Assistant Sr.
- Diagnostic Imaging Physics Resident, PGY-2
Charles Weaver, PhD
Positions Held:
- Diagnostic Imaging Physics Resident, PGY-1
- Diagnostic Medical Physicist Assistant
NEWS
Kimyli Lemieux, MS, joins division as nuclear medical physicist
We are excited to welcome Kimyli Lemieux, MS, to the division of diagnostic and nuclear medical physics as our newest faculty nuclear medical physicist. Kimyli brings a strong background in health physics, which enhances our division’s clinical operations and compliance efforts, particularly in support of the growing radiotheranostics program.
Her leadership and specialized expertise will be instrumental in ensuring the safety and effectiveness of our imaging and therapeutic practices. We are thrilled to have her on our team!
Division study examines clinical impact of CT image noise calculation methods under new CMS quality metric
Our division recently evaluated the impact of calculation methods used in the new CMS quality measure for CT image noise, comparing two widely referenced techniques—the "Duke method" and the "Wisconsin method." In our analysis of over 700 UKHC exams, we saw significant differences in image noise measurements depending solely on which calculation method was chosen. This difference can directly affect whether a given scan passes or fails the CMS-defined quality standards.
These results demonstrate that the regulation’s lack of specificity in calculation method could lead to unintended clinical consequences. Without clear standardization, hospitals might inadvertently select methods that produce artificially favorable outcomes, potentially compromising diagnostic reliability and patient care.
Dr. Charles Weaver Joins Diagnostic Imaging Physics Residency Program
We are pleased to welcome Charles Weaver, PhD, as the newest resident in our Diagnostic Imaging Physics Residency Program. Dr. Weaver earned his PhD in physics from the University of Kentucky and recently completed our Medical Physics Certificate program. In addition to his strong academic background, he brings extensive clinical experience that will further enrich his training and contributions to the program.
We are excited to have Dr. Weaver on board and look forward to his continued growth and impact in the field of medical physics!
Dr. Gary Ge Wins First Place at Inaugural Research Showcase
We are thrilled to announce that Dr. Gary Ge, our newest faculty member in diagnostic and nuclear medical physics, took first place at the department of radiology's inaugural research showcase. This event, designed to foster a robust research culture within our department, promotes collaboration among faculty and trainees while also nurturing mentorship and educational growth in research. Dr. Ge’s outstanding presentation and innovative research contributions made a lasting impact, earning him top honors among his peers.
Congratulations to Dr. Ge on this well-deserved recognition!
Division’s First Resident Recognized at POWV-ORVC Chapter Meeting
We are proud to share that Azmul Siddique, our inaugural resident in diagnostic imaging physics, earned third place in the Early Career Investigator Symposium at the 2024 POWV-ORVC chapter meeting of the AAPM. This competitive symposium highlights outstanding research contributions from early-career physicists across the region, fostering professional development and recognizing excellence in scientific innovation.
Diagnostic Imaging Physics Residency Program Launches
We are excited to announce the launch of our two-year diagnostic imaging physics residency program, a significant step forward in advancing education within the department. The residency, which began on July 1st, 2024, is part of the GME and the UK College of Medicine. Our first resident, Azmul Siddique, MS, will train under the guidance of our faculty, benefiting from the diverse expertise and advanced imaging modalities available throughout UK HealthCare.
https://medicine.uky.edu/departments/radiology/medical-physics-residency-program
Dr. Gary Ge Joins the Diagnostic and Nuclear Medical Physics Division
We are pleased to welcome Gary Ge, PhD, to our division as a diagnostic medical physicist. Dr. Ge completed his doctoral education at the University of Kentucky and brings a wealth of experience from his work at the Veterans Affairs (VA) Hospital. In addition to his role as a physicist, he is also an assistant professor in our department. His expertise and experience make him an invaluable addition to our team.
https://medicine.uky.edu/departments/radiology/users/gyge222
It was a great day of connection, conversation, and fresh air—an experience we look forward to making a tradition!