Dr Petra Jankowska elected as our new Medical Director, Professional Practice, Clinical Oncology
We’re pleased to announce that Dr Petra Jankowska has been elected as the incoming Medical Director, Professional Practice (MDPP), Clinical Oncology. Dr Jankowska will officially start from 1 September 2024 when she will take over from the current MDPP Dr Nicky Thorp.
Dr Jankowska will lead on Clinical Oncology Faculty activities that guide and support our Fellows and members throughout their practising careers.
Dr Jankowska trained as a clinical oncologist in London before becoming a consultant in Taunton in 2007, where she was instrumental in the development of a new cancer centre, encouraging clinical research and cementing its reputation nationally. She specialises in head & neck and lung cancers and has a particular interest in peer review of radiotherapy contouring and the development of supportive medical leadership.
Dr Jankowska said of her appointment: “I’m delighted to have been elected by my peers to this privileged position at the RCR. I’m excited to start later this year and hope to continue the excellent work of Dr Nicky Thorp, the current MDPP.
“In particular, I’m hoping to support UK centres with the implementation of radiotherapy contouring peer review so we can be assured of the same high-quality radiotherapy wherever patients are treated. I’m also hoping to work collaboratively with The Society and College of Radiographers and IPEM to further develop Late Effects Services nationally, as well as supportive oncology services.”
From 2019 to 2024, Dr Jankowska was the Radiotherapy Quality and Safety Lead at the RCR. She was Oncology Service Lead at Taunton from 2010-16, Clinical Director of Oncology, Haematology and Palliative Care Services from 2016-2018, and Associate Medical Director from 2018-2022, with oncology, haematology, radiology, pathology, pharmacy and therapies services within her remit.
She is also an active triallist , holding both Chief Investigator and Principal Investigator roles, is a contributing author to several textbooks and led the authorship of the 2nd edition of the RCR guideline on radiotherapy target volume definition and peer review. Dr Jankowska is committed to improving the safety and quality of patient care through the development of authentic, supportive and collaborative medical leadership.
Dr Tom Roques, Vice-President, Clinical Oncology, said: “I'm delighted that Petra will be joining the RCR Officer team as our Medical Director, Professional Practice, in September. I know she will bring real enthusiasm and passion to the role and build on the excellent work Dr Nicky Thorp has done over the last three years.”
