Zhe Jay Chen

Dr. Zhe (Jay) Chen is currently a Professor of Therapeutic Radiology at Yale School of Medicine, where he serves as Vice Chair for Physics Research and Education, Smilow Chief Physicist, and Director of the Medical Physics Residency Program. He obtained his PhD in theoretical condensed matter physics from the City University of New York (1989) after completing his BS in theoretical physics at Fudan University (1982).

• Education
  • BS, Fudan University (1982)
  • MPhil, City University of New York (1985)
  • PhD, City University of New York (1989)

Dr. Chen's research focuses on radiation dosimetry and radiobiology, particularly in brachytherapy and image-guided radiation therapy. His work includes theoretical formalism development for dose rate constants, optimization of radiation delivery systems, and biophysical modeling of treatment effects. Recent publications highlight innovations in modulated shielding applicators, proton dosimetry, and virtual clinical trials for evaluating radiation response models.

Key research trends from his publications include: brachytherapy device innovation, advanced dose modeling, radiobiological response analysis, and multi-institutional protocol standardization.

• Scientific Awards
  • Fellow of ASTRO (2025)
  • Special Achievement of Excellence Award, Yale New Haven Hospital (2017)
  • Volunteer Service Award, American Board of Radiology (2015)
  • Fellow of AAPM (2012)
  • Honorary Master of Arts, Yale University (2012)

Dr. Chen has been the Principal Investigator of a NIH R01 grant on prostate edema effects in brachytherapy and has served on multiple national committees including the American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM) since 1993. His laboratory works on photon spectrometry and radiation dose compensation strategies for clinical applications.