Dr. Rojymon Jacob named chair of radiation oncology
Dr. Rojymon Jacob is the new chair of Radiation Oncology in the School of Medicine. In this role, he will lead both clinical care and research initiatives, oversee the modernization of practices, establish quality standards, and enhance the training of radiation oncology residents. Additionally, he will be responsible for faculty development and mentoring.
“I aim to create a department committed to safe, compassionate clinical care using the latest treatment technologies, setting the standard for radiation therapy quality in Mississippi,” said Jacob. “I also plan to invest in the next generation of radiation oncology professionals and commit to clinical and outcomes research in cancer care, while expanding services to underserved areas through outreach efforts."
Previously, Jacob served as the lead GI radiation oncologist at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), where he played a key role in developing clinical practices, standardizing care, and improving quality assurance. He contributed expert opinions in multidisciplinary clinics and tumor boards, including active participation in the Multidisciplinary Liver, Pancreatico-biliary and Colorectal Tumor Boards. Additionally, he was instrumental in expanding radiation oncology outreach service at the Russell Cancer Center and Regional Medical Center.
His academic and clinical career also includes a visiting assistant professor at the University of California, Davis Medical Center and assistant professor, associate professor, and professor positions at UAB, where he further advanced his expertise in radiation oncology.
Jacob's extensive training and qualifications underscore his expertise in the field. He holds advanced degrees and certifications, including a Master of Business Administration from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, re-certification in Radiation Oncology from the American Board of Radiology, a Doctor of Medicine from the University of Kerala, and certification from the National Board of Examinations, India. He is also a Fellow of the Royal College of Radiologists from London. His postdoctoral training includes a Fellowship in Radiation Oncology at Fox Chase Cancer Center and Specialist Registrar positions in Clinical Oncology at Velindre NHS Trust and the Royal Marsden Hospital.
Building on this solid foundation, Jacob's research contributions further highlight his impact on the field of radiation oncology. He has authored over 70 journal articles, published more than 100 abstracts, and lectured at various international and national conferences on advanced topics such as stereotactic radiotherapy, proton beam therapy, and multidisciplinary cancer management. Moreover, he serves on the editorial boards of several journals and as a peer reviewer for prominent publications, including the International Journal of Radiation Oncology, Biology and Physics, JAMA, and the Journal of Clinical Radiation Therapy.
Jacob’s achievements are also reflected in his numerous awards and honors, including the Best of ASTRO for Protocol RAD 0902, the Cum Laude Award from the Radiological Society of North America, and the LAP Award of Excellence from the American College of Medical Physicists. He also received fellowships from the European Society of Therapeutic Radiology and Oncology, the International Union against Cancer, and the Association of Radiation Oncologists of India, and was recognized as a National Merit Scholar and State Merit List Valedictorian. Professionally, he is a member of several societies, such as the Indian College of Radiation Oncology, American College of Radiation Oncology, and American Society of Radiation Oncology, and holds fellowships with the Royal College of Radiologists, London. His active participation in national councils and committees includes roles with the American Board of Radiology, NCCN Hepatobiliary Cancers Panel, ASTRO Scientific Committee (GI Track), as well as various sub-committees for NRG and RTOG.