New approach to the faculty: Nate Van Asselt

Name:

Nathaniel (Nate) Van Asselt

Title:

Professor Radiation Oncology Adjunct

Hometown:

Downers Grove, Illinois

Educational / Professional Background:

Bachelor's Degree from Tulane University in New Orleans, Louisiana; DVM at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the University of St. George in Grenada; Rotating Small Animal Internship at VCA Aurora in Aurora, Illinois; Radiation Oncology Residency at the University of Wisconsin College of Veterinary Medicine

What is your research field and how did you enter it?

Tracking tumor movement during radiation treatments . I came into this field because we were lucky enough to get a tumor tracking platform called Synchrony on our new radiotherapy machine.

What attracted you to UW-Madison?

First, the people. Virtually everyone I have met at UW-Madison has been friendly and eager to work together toward a similar goal of improving the quality of veterinary care that we can provide.

What was your first visit to the campus like?

Fortunately, I have had many "first visits" to campus, as I have done much of my training here. I am happy to say that each time I was greeted by a friendly face.

Favorite place on campus?

Without a doubt the Terrace.

This is a unique moment in time as we return after more than a year of pandemic. What do you look forward to the most?

I continue to feel more secure and protected at work because I know that my colleagues have similar values ​​regarding safety.

Do you think your work is related in any way to the Wisconsin Idea? If yes, describe how.

Although my research does not easily apply to the Wisconsin Idea, I feel that my goal as an educator is to provide our students with not only the knowledge they need to be successful, but also the tools to navigate the sometimes mentally challenging realms of medicine. current veterinary medicine.

What's interesting in your area of ​​expertise that you can share that will make us look smarter at parties now that we can attend them again?

X-rays and gamma rays, both used in radiation oncology veterinary, are defined by their origin. X-rays are created by man, while gamma rays are produced by radioactive isotopes. Both can produce high and low energy electromagnetic waves.

Hobbies / other interests:

First, my family. I have a wife, a two-year-old son, and two dogs. I'm happiest when we're at the zoo and my two-year-old runs past the cool animals to catch the train. In second place would be music, outdoor activities such as hiking and camping, movies and television shows and, finally, video games.