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Radiation Oncology

Kiran Kumar, M.D.

Assistant Professor of Radiation Oncology
Associate Director of Medical Residency Program
Department of Radiation Oncology

kiran.kumar@utsouthwestern.edu (Preferred method of Contact)
214-645-0908

Kiran Kumar, M.D.

About the Specialty

Radiation Oncology is a specialty that uses radiation in a controlled manner to treat cancer and some benign conditions. We care for patients of all ages and all stages of disease, and are part of the curative and palliative treatment of malignant disease.

Answers to Common Questions

  • Attributes of a Competitive Student

    What factors typically make a student competitive for this specialty?

    Publications, high board scores, good medicine/surgery clerk score.

  • Research

    How important is research experience in your specialty? If important, does it need to be in the specialty itself?

    Very, but it doesn’t have to be in specialty.

  • Shadowing

    How can students identify opportunities for shadowing?

    Both ROSIG and Melissa Gayle. melissa.gayle@utsouthwestern.edu

  • Electives

    What electives would you recommend to a student who is interested in pursuing your specialty?

    Surg Onc, Med Onc, Interventional Radiology, Radiology

    Based on your experience, what tips do you have for students to shine on your electives?

    Prepare each patient and learn NCCN guidelines prior, ask questions!

  • Away Rotations

    Does your specialty recommend doing away rotations?

    Yes.

    If your specialty recommends doing away rotations, how many “aways” do you recommend?

    One to two, (besides UT Southwestern).

    If away rotations are necessary, when should they apply and when should they be completed?

    As early as possible, before September of the year they are interviewing

  • Interview Timing

    Which month do you recommend taking off to interview?

    December and January

  • Letters of Recommendation

    How many letters of recommendation are needed to apply to your specialty?

    Three letters of recommendation are required, but only one from Radiation Oncology.

    Does your specialty recommend that all letters of recommendation be written by members of your specialty?

    No; a research adviser and a strong clinical rec are good.

    If letters can come from other disciplines, do you have a recommendation as to which disciplines are more highly valued?

    Head and Neck Surg, Medicine Oncology, Internal Medicine, Surgical Oncology

    Does the academic rank of the letter writer matter?

    A little; name recognition is key.

    Does your specialty require a letter from the chairman?

    No.

Resources

View Advisers for Other Specialties