Stephen McMahon

My research focuses on the application of mathematical models to enhance our understanding of biological responses to radiation, spanning a range of scales from individual cells to whole organisms.

In my PhD I developed models of how heavy-element nanoparticles impacted energy deposition in radiation therapy, with a focus on the use of gold nanoparticle to improve treatment outcomes. Comparison with experimental data led to the development of new models of biological response to these advanced exposures to better explain the nanoscale impact of these agents.

Following this, I have worked in a number of posts in both QUB and Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, applying these techniques in a range of systems, including models of intercellular signalling, normal tissue complication, and intrinsic radiosensitivity.

I am continuing this work in my current post as a Queen's University Research Fellow within the CCRCB, building a portfolio of computational tools to better understand radiation responses, in systems such as proton therapy, nanoparticle-enhanced therapy, and radionuclide therapy. This work is being carried out with a range of national and international collaborators, including at the University of Manchester, Massachusetts General Hospital, and Oncoray Dresden.