Introduction to Particle Therapy An Educational Handbook

“Introduction to Particle Therapy: An Educational Handbook” provides a clear and accessible overview of modern particle radiation therapy. Aimed at students, physicists and researchers in particle beam therapy, it explains the fundamental physics of proton and heavy-ion beams and how their distinctive depth-dose profiles enable highly targeted cancer treatment with minimal damage to healthy tissue. It explores the latest, cutting-edge research in accelerator technology, beam-delivery systems, treatment-planning methods, radiobiology, and dosimetry and safety. The book also examines the engineering design of particle therapy machines, outlining key components, system architectures and performance considerations. Chapters on particle radiation biology, image-guidance technologies and inverse optimization methods illustrate the principles required for precise and adaptive treatment delivery. Emerging developments, such as ultra-high-dose-rate (FLASH) therapy, next-generation planning strategies and continuing technological innovations, are highlighted to contextualize current research and future directions. With clear illustrations, structured explanations and contributions from international experts, this handbook serves both as an authoritative introduction for newcomers and a practical reference for those advancing in the field. Key features:An educational handbook for students interested in learning about particle beam therapy. Includes exercises, matRad code and data, alongside open software for treatment planningCan be used in conjunction with the masterclass courses offered every year by CERN/HITriplus consortium.