From 24 August to 12 September 2026, ICTP held its College on Medical Physics 2026, a comprehensive programme designed to empower medical physics in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) by achieving excellence through outreach, workshops, education, and research. The College brought together 63 participants from developing countries across Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe, together with an international faculty of directors and lecturers from Europe, the United States, and the Middle East. Combining theoretical lectures with hands-on practical training, the programme aimed to give participants both a deep understanding of medical imaging physics and the practical skills to apply it in their own institutions. Notably, the College was directed by an international faculty that included Dr. M. Hassan Kharita of Hamad Medical Corporation (HMC), Qatar, and president of The Middle East Federation of Medical Physics (MEFOMP) reflecting the region's active role in the College's leadership.
The programme was further enriched by the participation of Dr. Shady Alkhazzam, Medical Physicist at Hamad Medical Corporation, Qatar, who attended as a lecturer on behalf of the Middle East Federation of Organizations of Medical Physics (MEFOMP). On 4 September 2026, Dr. Alkhazzam delivered two lectures — “DRL – MEFOMP's Reflections on Implementing Dynamic DRLs,” presented within a special session on sharing experience from regional organizations, and “Remote and Automated Quality Control for General Radiography and Mammography.” These were followed by a two-part, hands-on computer laboratory session of about two hours, in which participants applied remote and automated quality-control methods to radiographic and mammographic imaging systems. His contributions combined the latest approaches to dose optimization with practical, reproducible quality-control techniques that participants can apply directly in their own departments.

A particular highlight of the event was a donation of quality-control phantoms, offered as a gift from MEFOMP and HMC, Qatar. Seven automated QC radiography phantoms were distributed to participants from low- and middle-income countries — Bangladesh, India, Kenya, Nepal, Zambia, Malawi, and Rwanda — together with two mammography QC phantoms presented to Rwanda and India. These tools will enable the recipients to establish and sustain routine quality-control programmes for diagnostic imaging equipment in their home institutions, turning the knowledge gained during the College into lasting, everyday practice.

This initiative reflects the shared commitment of MEFOMP and HMC to promoting a culture of quality control in diagnostic radiology and to supporting medical institutions with limited resources. By pairing education with the practical means to apply it, the contribution helps to narrow the gap in imaging quality and radiation safety between well-resourced and resource-limited settings — a goal that lies at the very heart of the College's mission to empower medical physics in developing countries.

The participation of Dr. Alkhazzam, on behalf of MEFOMP and HMC, once again demonstrates the growing leadership of the Middle East region in advancing medical physics education, quality assurance, and international cooperation. MEFOMP remains dedicated to strengthening scientific capacity across the region and beyond, and to fostering partnerships that improve patient safety and the quality of medical imaging for communities worldwide.

The IOMP is pleased to announce the IUPAP Early Career Scientist Prize in Medical Physics 2026. This award was established and funded by the International Union of Pure and Applied Physics (IUPAP) and is awarded by the International Organization for Medical Physics (IOMP) as the IUPAP affiliated International Commission for Medical Physics.

The Award will include a cash prize of 1000 CHF, an IUPAP medal^[1] and the IOMP certificate. In addition, a short biography of the Awardee will be published in Medical Physics World.

 

Criteria for selection:

• As of 1 January 2026, the recipient of the award should have a maximum of 8 years of research experience (not including maternity/paternity leave) following graduate degree completion.
• The recipient should have performed original and/or applied work of outstanding scientific quality and contributed internationally in medical physics.
• The committee may consider the achievements in the context of opportunity.
• The award may only be received one time by any individual.
• Nominee shall not be a current member of the IOMP Awards & Honors Committee or the IOMP Executive Committee.

Nominating Procedure

• The award will be advertised by the International Organization for Medical Physics (IOMP) mailing list and on the organization’s website: http://www.iomp.org
• Self-nomination will not be considered.
• Nominations must be made to the Chair of the IOMP Awards and Honors Committee (AHC) by IOMP National Member Organizations (NMO) or by individuals through their NMO. In exceptional circumstances (e.g., from countries where no NMO exists), individuals can nominate a colleague directly. It is recommended that the nominating person check with the IOMP AHC prior to submitting such a nomination.
• All nominations should include the following documents (in PDF):
• Important note: Please label the files using the nominee’s name and according to the format described below:
  • A filled/completed nomination form available from the IOMP website. (Label the file as 01_LastName_FirstName_nomination form).
  • A letter of not more than 1,000 words evaluating nominee’s achievements and identifying the specific work to be recognized. (Label the file as 02_LastName_FirstName_achievement).
  • A curriculum vitae including all publications. (Label the file as 03_LastName_FirstName_CV).
• A brief biographical sketch (500 words). (Label the file as 04_LastName_FirstName_biography).
  • Nominations must be completed via online google form (https://forms.gle/AsNfU63W1u2XdZ8M8) by October 9, 2026.

[1] The Award does not include any travel or conference expenses for the recipient.
 

Download the Call for Nomination document

The Middle East Federation of Organizations for Medical Physics (MEFOMP), in collaboration with the Iraqi Medical Physics Society (IMPS), successfully hosted a webinar guiding medical physicists across the region through the International Medical Physics Certification Board (IMPCB) examination — from the initial application all the way through to certification.

The full recording is now available for anyone who missed the live session or wishes to revisit the content.
 

Event Details

• Title: From Application to Certification: Understanding and Preparing for the Medical Physics IMPCB Board Examination
• Date: Tuesday, September 1, 2026
• Time: 6:00 PM Baghdad Time (AST)
• Format: Online

Speakers

Presented by: Dr. Ibrahim Duhaini, IMPCB Treasurer

Organizer and Moderator: Dr. Mustafa Al Musawi, MEFOMP Scientific Committee Chair and President of IMPS
 

What You Will Learn

This session is designed to walk participants through every stage of the certification journey, covering:

1. The IMPCB certification pathway and application process
2. Candidate eligibility and qualifications for Parts I, II, and III
3. Examination structure, categories, and topics
4. The onsite, paper-based examination format and procedures
5. Sample questions and what to expect on exam day
6. Practical study and examination strategies — including tips to manage time, avoid common mistakes, and perform successfully

Who Should Watch

This recording is valuable for medical physicists, residents, IMPCB candidates, educators, and representatives of medical physics societies who are interested in international certification.

Why Watch

Whether you are just beginning to consider IMPCB certification or are actively preparing for an upcoming exam sitting, this webinar offers a clear, practical roadmap. Watch the recording to understand the IMPCB examination process, prepare effectively, and move confidently from application to certification.
 

Access the Recording

Zoom Recording Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/rec/share/iRCIb1xchbStFUBFlbCZaixUdqK_Bv7OfBdIvocMX7um2UhyVIaQoXO5vtiy199r.O1DbJ9Q3CnzYi6Fd

Passcode: LWb@t?&2

MEFOMP members are invited to submit abstracts for the 4th Academic International Medical Physics Conference (AIMPC2026).

The conference will take place on 28–29 November 2026 at Al-Subtain University for Medical Sciences, Karbala, Iraq, and is organized in collaboration with Warith International Cancer Institution and other partner institutions.

Researchers, Scientists, Medical Physicists, Health Professionals, and Academicians are encouraged to submit original work for oral or poster presentation. All abstracts will undergo review by the Scientific Committee, and outstanding papers may be invited to submit full manuscripts to the Polytechnic Journal (Q2) for peer review and free publication.

Conference topics include (but are not limited to):

• Radiotherapy Physics
• Medical Imaging
• Nuclear Medicine
• Radiation Protection and Safety
• Dosimetry and Instrumentation
• Medical Physics Education
• Emerging Technologies
• Artificial Intelligence in Medical Physics
• Quality Assurance and Control
• Theranostics
• Clinical Applications and Advances

Important Dates:

• Registration Opens: 7 September 2026
• Abstract Submission Deadline: 1 October 2026
• Conference Dates: 28–29 November 2026

Submit your abstract: https://easychair.org/conferences/?conf=AIMC-2026
Language: English

For inquiries, contact murtadha.alnafiey@qu.edu.iq or +964 770 877 1740, or visit www.aimpc2026.com.

We encourage all MEFOMP members to take this opportunity to share their research and contribute to advancing medical physics in the region.

Medical physicists across the Middle East now have a valuable opportunity to pursue internationally recognized certification, as the International Medical Physics Certification Board (IMPCB) has announced an upcoming examination session to be held in Karbala, Iraq.

According to the IMPCB Exam Session Selection Form, candidates in the region can now apply for the following examination components, to be administered on November 28, 2026:

Part I (General Medical Physics) is the foundational examination covering broad principles of medical physics and is a prerequisite for candidates pursuing any Part II specialty examination.
 

Part II examinations allow candidates to demonstrate advanced, specialty-specific competence in one of three clinical subfields:

• Radiation Oncology Physics
• Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology Physics
• Nuclear Medicine Physics

Candidates who successfully complete both Part I and an applicable Part II examination move a significant step closer toward full IMPCB certification, which can also serve as a pathway toward Part III (oral/practical) certification under the IMPCB's three-part model.

How to Apply
Interested candidates should visit the official IMPCB website at https://www.impcbdb.org/exams/ to review eligibility criteria, complete the Exam Session Selection Form, and submit their application ahead of the November 28, 2026 session in Karbala, Iraq. 

MEFOMP encourages qualified medical physicists interested in sitting for the Part I or Part II examinations to review the eligibility requirements and application process on the official IMPCB website before the application deadline.

The Saudi Society of Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging (SSNMMI) has opened registration for the 18th Asian–Oceanian Congress of Nuclear Medicine and Biology (AOCNMB), which will be held jointly with the 3rd SSNMMI Annual Conference from December 4–6, 2026, at The Venue Hotel in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. This marks the first time the congress — one of the region's most important scientific gatherings in nuclear medicine and molecular imaging — comes to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

What the Congress Offers

Organizers describe the 2026 congress as bringing together world-class speakers, a cutting-edge scientific program, and strong networking opportunities for professionals across the region and beyond. Sessions are expected to cover advances in nuclear medicine, updates in molecular imaging, precision theranostics, novel radiopharmaceuticals, clinical best practices, and multidisciplinary approaches to patient care. Accredited Continuing Medical Education (CME) hours will be available, with the exact number of hours to be confirmed once official accreditation is finalized.

The congress is designed for a broad, multidisciplinary audience, including:

• Nuclear medicine physicians, technologists, and physicists
• Radiopharmacists and radiologists
• Radiographers and radiation oncologists
• Medical oncologists, cardiologists, neurologists, and endocrinologists
• Surgeons and nurses
• Medical and healthcare students

Registration is now active and open through the SSNMMI website. Two main packages are currently available:

• Professional Package — SAR 750 until October 31, 2026 (rising to SAR 1,000 from November 1, 2026). This includes full access to the conference and scientific program, accredited CME hours (once confirmed), a certificate of attendance, and coffee breaks and lunch.
• Student Package — SAR 400, offering full access to the conference and scientific program, a certificate of attendance, and coffee breaks.

Registration is confirmed only after payment is completed, and tickets are personal to the registrant. Access and logistical details will be shared with registered participants closer to the event date.

Prospective speakers can also apply to present at the congress through an online speaker application on the event page, which requires a short bio, proposed topic title, and contact details; applications are subject to review by the organizing board.

Venue and Location

The congress will be held on-site at The Venue Hotel in Jeddah — Saudi Arabia's coastal gateway city on the Red Sea and a major hub for business and cultural tourism, offering an accessible and welcoming setting for international delegates.

How to Register

Healthcare professionals, researchers, and students interested in attending can register through the official event page on the SSNMMI website (ssnmmi.org.sa), where full details on packages, the emerging speaker lineup, and the scientific program will continue to be updated in the lead-up to the congress.

With its blend of scientific depth, regional collaboration, and a historic first-time hosting by Saudi Arabia, the 18th AOCNMB is set to be a landmark event for the nuclear medicine community across Asia, Oceania, and the wider Middle East.

Link: https://aocnmb2026.com/registration
 

Spectral CT is an advanced imaging technique that distinguishes X-ray energies at the 
detector level, enabling energy-resolved imaging for improved tissue characterization and 
quantitative analysis. Despite its growing availability, there remains limited insight into its 
global clinical implementation and quality assurance practices. 

Join this webinar to explore the evolving role of Spectral CT in modern radiology. We will 
present and discuss the findings of our Anchor Centre survey examining current clinical 
use, challenges, and QA approaches across institutions worldwide.

This session is highly relevant for professionals across multiple departments, including 
Radiology, Nuclear Medicine, and Radiotherapy, as Spectral CT increasingly plays a role in 
imaging, treatment planning, and quantitative analysis across these disciplines.

Speaker
Nathaly Barbosa
- is a physicist and medical physicist specializing in diagnostic imaging 
and nuclear medicine, with expertise in radiation protection, quality assurance, internal 
dosimetry, and the clinical implementation of imaging and nuclear medicine services. She 
currently works at Fundación CTIC – Centro de Tratamiento e Investigación sobre Cáncer
in Bogotá, Colombia

Date: June 25,2026
Time: 02:00PM CET+1

Registration Link: https://iaea.webex.com/webappng/sites/iaea/meeting/register/a8c78d21c8cf40cc8116635bc3580714?ticket=4832534b0000000936a93df3ef349c0680426aa735ffe0fe566549af8a7945a9041cc4f159cc1a58&timestamp=1780575380054&RGID=r561e56bd7253136b8d6a92dfa1f74f01&isAutoPopRegisterForm=false

Please click the Link in the Attachment Leaflet.

The IOMP is pleased to seek nominations for the IDMP Award. This award recognises excellence in Medical Physics professional service with a particular view of promoting medical physics within their geographic region and highlighting the contributions medical physicists make to patient care. The 2026 IDMP Award is given on the occasion of the celebration of the International Day of Medical Physics (IDMP) and will be announced on November 7, 2026.

The IDMP Award consists of an IOMP certificate, and additionally, a short biography of the awardee will be published in the IOMP Bulletin, e-Medical Physics World (eMPW).

Criteria for selection:

• The recipient of the award should be a professional medical physicist holding a master’s degree or higher, or equivalent, who is an active member of a relevant Medical Physics Society.
• The recipient should have taken an active part in promoting medical physics, nationally and/or internationally.
• The recipient should demonstrate a strong professional contribution within the region that nominates them.
• The recipient should have performed original and/or applied work of high scientific quality or made a significant professional contribution to Medical Physics in the past three years.
• Only deserving candidates will be selected. If no one meets the criteria for a region, no award will be given.
• The nominee shall not be a current member of the IOMP Awards & Honours Committee or Executive Committee.

Nominating Procedure:

• Each National Member Organization (NMO) and Regional Organization (RO) can nominate for this award.
• Nominations to IOMP should be made by the President or Secretary General of the Organization. In exceptional circumstances (e.g., from countries where no NMO exists), individuals can nominate a colleague directly. It is recommended that the nominating person checks with the IOMP AHC prior to submitting such a nomination.
• Self-nomination will only be considered in exceptional circumstances.
• Nominees should be full members of an IOMP NMO.
• The nomination should include the following documents:
• A letter of not more than 1,000 words describing the nominee’s achievements and identifying the specific work or professional contribution to be recognized.
• IOMP award form completed by the candidate and signed by the nominator.
•  A curriculum vitae including all publications.
• A brief biographical sketch (500 words).
   

Nominations must be submitted online via Google form (https://forms.gle/cUhb66wBxJmJgXUx5) by 9 August 2026.

All submissions and supporting materials must be provided in PDF format. 

Important note: Please label the files using the nominee’s name and according to the format described below.

1. A filled/completed nomination form is available from the IOMP website.
   (Label the file as 01_LastName_FirstName_nomination form).
2. A letter of not more than 1,000 words describing the nominee’s achievements and identifying the specific work or professional contribution to be recognized.
   (Label the file as 02_LastName_FirstName_achievement).
3. A curriculum vitae including all publications.
   (Label the file as 03_LastName_FirstName_CV).
4. A brief biographical sketch (500 words).
   (Label the file as 04_LastName_FirstName_biography).

One medical physicist per IOMP Regional Organization (i.e. EFOMP, AFOMP, SEAFOMP, MEFOMP, ALFIM, FAMPO and North America) will be selected by the AHC to receive the award. 

The winners will be announced on November 7, 2026.

For more information, click the link below:
https://www.iomp.org/awards-honours/
 

We are pleased to share the latest edition of the International Organization for Medical Physics (IOMP) Newsletter – Volume 8, No. 3, June 2026, featuring important updates, achievements, educational resources, and opportunities from the global medical physics community.
 
This issue includes seven informative articles:

•  Message from the IOMP Treasurer – Dr Mohammad Hassan Kharita
• International Day of Medical Physics (IDMP) 2026 Poster and Winner Announcement
• Call for Nominations – IDMP 2026 Award
• Congratulations to Emeritus Prof. Kwan Hoong Ng on receiving the AOSR Gold Medal 2026
• International Medical Physics Week (IMPW) 2026 Webinar Recordings – Recording is Now Available
• IAEA Report: Syllabus for the Training of Radiation Protection Officers
• IAEA Report: Clinical Implementation of Artificial Intelligence Systems in Medical Imaging and Radiotherapy

These articles highlight the ongoing efforts to advance medical physics education, professional development, radiation safety, and innovation in healthcare worldwide.
 
We encourage all MEFOMP members to read and share this valuable newsletter with colleagues and professional networks.
 
Read the full newsletter here:
IOMP Newsletter Vol. 8, No. 3 · June 2026
 
Thank you for your continued support and engagement in strengthening the medical physics profession across the Middle East and beyond.
 
 

Summary: MEFOMP, in cooperation with the Syrian Atomic Energy Commission (SAEC), held a national workshop in Damascus from 19 to 21 May 2026 to strengthen quality control practices in X-ray imaging and support safer, higher-quality diagnostic services across Syrian health institutions.

Quality assurance in diagnostic imaging plays a vital role in protecting patients and improving clinical outcomes. Reflecting this shared commitment, MEFOMP and the Syrian Atomic Energy Commission brought together healthcare professionals in Damascus for a national workshop focused on practical approaches to quality control in X-ray imaging and the exchange of technical expertise.

The workshop was delivered by Dr Mohammad Hassan Kharita and Dr Shady Alkhazzam, introducing participants to the IAEA methodology for remote and automated quality control in radiography and mammography. It brought together 25 participants from 15 hospitals, alongside representatives from the Ministry of Health and the Syrian Atomic Energy Commission.

The training program is combined with theory and hands-on training covering the quality control of radiological imaging devices, image quality standards in digital radiography and fluoroscopy, modern phantom technologies, image analysis, and the collection of radiation dose-related data. In support of the initiative, MEFOMP and Hamad Medical Corporation donated 21 phantoms ahead of the workshop which were distributed to participating hospitals.

MEFOMP extends its sincere appreciation to Dr Mudhar Al Okla, Director General of the Syrian Atomic Energy Commission, for his vital leadership role in hosting and conducting this workshop. His strong commitment, guidance, and active involvement were instrumental in ensuring the successful organization and smooth delivery of the event.

MEFOMP also expresses its gratitude to Dr Riad Shweikani, Director of the Training Directorate of the Nuclear Science and Technology, together with the Directorate’s Team, for their valuable support and cooperation, which greatly contributed to the overall success of the workshop.

 

ICMP 2027 and the MEFOMP Medical Physics Conference 2027 will bring together medical physicists, researchers, clinicians, educators, industry partners, and policy makers from across the globe to share knowledge, exchange ideas, and explore the latest advances in medical physics and related disciplines. The scientific program will feature plenary lectures, symposia, oral and poster presentations, workshops, and industry exhibitions, fostering collaboration and innovation in healthcare technology and patient safety.

Abu Dhabi, a vibrant hub of science, culture, and innovation, offers an exceptional setting for professional exchange and networking while experiencing the rich heritage and modern vision of the United Arab Emirates.

• Cutting-edge scientific sessions and plenary lectures to enhance your knowledge through expert-led sessions and workshops.
• Oral and poster presentations by international experts
• Workshops and symposia across medical physics specialties
• Industry exhibition showcasing the latest technologies
• Global networking and professional collaboration
• Earn CPD points accredited by IOMP

Dr. Abdulkader has been selected as the recipient of the MEFOMP Outreach & Engagement Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to the development of medical physics education, training, and professional capacity in Syria. Over more than four decades, he has played a key role in establishing radiotherapy and nuclear medicine services, mentoring medical physicists, and promoting radiation protection and quality assurance practices. His leadership in training programs, academic teaching, and national initiatives; including supporting the creation of a Master’s program in Medical Physics and advocating for the professional recognition of medical physicists; has significantly strengthened the medical physics community in the region.

 Mr. Mojtaba has been selected as one of the recipient of the MEFOMP Young Scientist Award in recognition of his outstanding contributions to medical physics research and clinical practice. As an Associate Medical Physicist at Hamad Medical Corporation, he has demonstrated exceptional scientific productivity and innovation, particularly in MRI-based radiotherapy, AI-driven imaging, and treatment planning optimization. Through numerous peer-reviewed publications, active research collaborations, and significant involvement in clinical physics and technology implementation, he has contributed to advancing precision radiotherapy and medical physics in the region. This award acknowledges his impactful work and his promising role as an emerging leader in the field of medical physics.

Dr. Nabaa has been selected as one of the recipient of the MEFOMP Young Scientist Award in recognition of her significant contributions to research and professional development in medical physics. As a Gamma Knife radiotherapist and Vice President of the Iraqi Medical Physics Society, she has demonstrated strong scientific productivity through numerous peer-reviewed publications in radiotherapy physics, particularly in treatment planning and stereotactic radiosurgery. In addition to her clinical and research work, she has actively contributed to education, training programs, and professional activities within the regional medical physics community, highlighting her growing leadership and impact in the field.

Across five days, IMPW will feature leading voices in sustainability from across disciplines and regions, offering insights that are both globally relevant and grounded in local experience.