The AFOMP Meet the Expert series proudly features Prof. Dr. Golam Abu Zakaria, a globally respected leader and pioneer in the field of medical physics. His career represents an extraordinary blend of scientific innovation, visionary leadership, academic excellence, and dedicated service to the international medical physics community.
Born in Naogaon, Bangladesh, Professor Zakaria’s academic journey began with outstanding scholastic achievements that led him to pursue higher education in Germany. He completed his Master’s degree in Physics with specialization in Medical Physics at Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg. He later earned his Ph.D. in Medical Physics with Magna Cum Laude distinction from the University of Heidelberg — one of Europe’s most prestigious institutions.
During his early scientific career, Professor Zakaria made groundbreaking technical contributions. He developed the first electron ionization chamber in East Germany to address the absence of dedicated instrumentation for accurate electron dose measurements in radiation therapy. This innovation was successfully utilized for several years in clinical practice. Furthermore, during his doctoral research, he developed a Treatment Planning System (TPS) based on a pencil beam approach for three-dimensional electron dose calculations. This system was implemented at Heidelberg University Hospital and served clinical needs for over a decade — a remarkable achievement demonstrating the practical impact of his research.
Beyond his scientific accomplishments, Professor Zakaria is widely recognized for his leadership in strengthening medical physics education and accreditation globally. He served as Chairman of the DGMP Task Group on Medical Physics in Developing Countries, where he actively promoted capacity building and knowledge transfer between developed and developing nations. His long-standing commitment to international cooperation reflects his belief that equitable access to quality medical physics education is fundamental to improving cancer care worldwide.
At the international level, he has played a pivotal role in shaping accreditation standards. He has served as Vice Chair of the IOMP Accreditation Board and Chairman of the Accreditation Committee-2 of the International Medical Physics Certification Board (IMPCB). Through these roles, he has contributed significantly to establishing and maintaining high standards in medical physics training, certification, and professional recognition across multiple regions.
Professor Zakaria is the Founder Chairman of the South Asia Centre for Medical Physics and Cancer Research (SCMPCR), Dhaka, an institution dedicated to advancing education, research, and professional development in the region. His vision for SCMPCR reflects his commitment to building sustainable infrastructure for medical physics in South Asia. Over the decades, he has supervised more than 230 Bachelor’s, Master’s, Residency, and Ph.D. students, mentoring generations of professionals who now serve in academia, hospitals, and research institutions worldwide.
His contributions have been widely acknowledged through numerous prestigious honors and recognitions. He is a Fellow of the International Organization for Medical Physics (FIOMP) and recipient of the Harold Johns Medal, awarded in recognition of excellence in teaching and outstanding contributions to the national and international development of medical physics. In 2024, he was awarded the Federal Cross of Merit (Bundesverdienstkreuz), Germany’s highest civilian honor, recognizing his exceptional services to health, education, and international cooperation.
Professor Zakaria’s life and career exemplify the qualities of a true bridge-builder — connecting continents, institutions, and generations. He has fostered collaborations between Europe, Asia, and Africa, promoted academic exchange, and championed inclusive growth in the profession. His work extends beyond scientific advancement to nurturing human capital, inspiring young professionals, and strengthening global solidarity within the medical physics community.
In this AFOMP Meet the Expert session, Professor Zakaria shares insights from his decades-long journey — reflecting on scientific innovation, leadership challenges, global accreditation, and the future of medical physics in developing regions. His experiences provide invaluable guidance for early-career professionals, educators, policymakers, and international organizations working to enhance cancer care and radiation safety worldwide.
The session stands as a tribute not only to his achievements but also to his enduring commitment to advancing medical physics for the benefit of humanity. Through dedication, humility, and visionary leadership, Professor Zakaria continues to inspire the global community and shape the future of the profession.