Omar Islam, MD, FRCPC, DABR, leads the Department of Diagnostic Radiology at Queen’s University in Kingston, Canada. His imaging career started off in part because of his interest in technology.
“My path into radiology was shaped by my early interest in the intersection of technology and medicine, particularly through advanced imaging techniques. I pursued a Radiology Residency at Queen’s University, followed by a Neuroradiology Fellowship at Yale, which solidified my specialization in neuroradiology. My department head at the time, Dr. Robert Ferguson, an interventional neuroradiologist, was my source of advice and inspiration. Neuroradiology has provided me with opportunities to blend diagnostic expertise with cutting-edge technology, impacting patient care in meaningful ways,” he says.
His career has included exciting moments.
“One of my proudest achievements is helping bring the first clinical portable MRI to Canada, specifically to Moose Factory, Ontario, a remote community serving primarily Indigenous populations in Canada’s north,” Islam shares. “This project helped improve access to deserving communities, who otherwise had limited or no opportunity for advanced radiology health care. Through this effort, we have been able to make strides in improving diagnostic access in remote settings and provided a framework for other remote communities in Canada to launch portable MRI program.”
As Islam shares details about his career, it is obvious he enjoys his work.
“My work allows me to push the boundaries of medical imaging while contributing to patient-centered innovation,” he says. “I find immense fulfillment in leading projects that enhance diagnostic accuracy and improve patient access, particularly in underserved communities. No one day is the same. Each day brings opportunities to teach, innovate and make a lasting difference in radiology.”
When asked to look into his crystal ball, Islam points out that new technology will continue to be the future of medical imaging.
“Apart from the obvious, in which the future of imaging lies in the integration of artificial intelligence and the expansion of portable imaging, the opportunity of imaging lies in more direct contribution to patient care via advanced diagnostic and therapeutic techniques,” he says. “Radiologists will more and more take larger roles in disease therapies and management of the patient at all steps of their health care journey.”
“AI will continue transforming diagnostic accuracy and prediction of outcomes. AI will not replace radiologists, but those radiologists who embrace AI in their practice will replace those who don’t,” he adds.
Theranostics is an area that Islam says “will place radiology at the forefront of disease cure and prevention. Theranostics uses imaging techniques to guide the delivery of targeted therapy in the fields of cancer, cardiovascular, neurological and inflammatory conditions. This evolution in radiology will make diagnostic and therapeutic tools more equitable and accessible globally.”
When asked about his leadership style and goals, Islam stresses teamwork.
“Leadership, to me, is about collaboration and setting a vision. As head of diagnostic radiology at Queen’s University, I focus on fostering a supportive environment to provide a foundation where innovation and professional development thrive,” he states. “I believe in empowering my team through clear communication, mentorship, and shared goals, aiming to drive advancements in patient care and academic radiology.”
His leadership approach is no doubt a result of work with mentors who helped guide and shape his professional development.
“During my fellowship at Yale, I was fortunate to have mentors who emphasized the importance of curiosity, discipline and compassion in radiology,” Islam reflects. “Dr. Gordon Sze was that inspiring leader. More recently, Dr. Bob Nolan, professor emeritus of radiology at Queen’s University has been a father figure, pushing and prodding me to continue to explore more and better for our patients.”
“Their collective guidance inspired me to approach complex cases thoughtfully and serve as a mentor to others. At Queen’s University, I mentor radiology residents, imaging professionals and other faculty colleagues, emphasizing a holistic approach to learning that combines technical skill with empathy and resilience,” he adds.
Speaking of father figures, Islam is also quick to mention the strong support he has from home.
“My family has been a source of strength and inspiration throughout my career. There are three generations of family members in our home. They are a great reminder of the importance of balancing work with quality time and staying grounded in the values that matter most,” Islam says.
1. What is the last book you read? Or, what book are you reading currently? The most recent one was “Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking,” by Malcolm Gladwell. I am trying to make quicker decisions!
2. Favorite movie? There has not been a horror movie that I haven’t liked, and one can’t go wrong with the classics “The Exorcist,” “The Birds,” “The Shining,” or the “Omen” trilogy.
3. What is something most of your coworkers don’t know about you? I wish I was a day-trader. I would love the opportunity to immerse myself in the world of Wall Street!
4. Who is your mentor? I have had a few, Dr. Gordon Sze comes to mind when I was a trainee at Yale, and currently I would say it would be one of my predecessors, former department head Dr. Bob Nolan.
5. What is one thing you do every morning to start your day? My morning coffee routine has not changed in 25 years. I am stubbornly addicted to my favorite caffeine fix and follow the same path every day to get it.
6. Best advice you ever received? Stop talking and start listening.
7. Who has had the biggest influence on your life? My wife and two sons.
8. What would your superpower be? Predict the stock market
9. What are your hobbies? I used to do stamp collecting. Tennis and traveling.
10. What is your perfect meal? One cannot beat an old-fashioned meatloaf, well done, with baked potatoes.
