MSc in Medical Biophysics - Biomedical Imaging in Toronto Canada | University of Toronto

The Department of Medical Biophysics is a cross-disciplinary unit renowned for its longstanding tradition of groundbreaking work in cancer studies, therapies, and other medical fields. Based mainly at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, Sunnybrook Research Institute, and SickKids Research Institute, it provides graduate programs culminating in Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy degrees. This innovative program in oncology and general biomedical research transcends traditional divisions between biology, physics, clinical medicine, and engineering, offering a cutting-edge educational experience and top-tier research opportunities.
The graduate education initiative forms a cornerstone of the Department of Medical Biophysics, with roots stretching over half a century to its founding in cancer investigation at the Ontario Cancer Institute. Students can pursue interdisciplinary, research-intensive graduate degrees at both MSc and PhD levels. While the MSc serves as a typical starting point, the program primarily focuses on doctoral studies. Coursework is designed to expand students' knowledge bases, particularly for those coming from life sciences or physical sciences undergraduate programs. Completion typically takes 2.5 years for MSc candidates and 5-6 years for PhD candidates.
Biological systems, ranging from cellular organelles to entire human bodies, function according to their structural organization. Imaging methods allow researchers to detect and interpret these spatial relationships, supporting both medical diagnostics and the study of normal development throughout life. MBP investigators are pioneering novel imaging approaches while finding new clinical uses for existing technologies. Active research areas within the department encompass magnetic resonance, ultrasound, magnetoencephalography, X-ray, and optical methods applied to various organ systems and disease states. These projects may explore fundamental physics, device engineering, contrast agent development, animal model testing, or human clinical trials, depending on the technology's maturity and intended applications.