Smells like beam spirit - a radiotherapy multiverse of (super) humans in white coats: seven radiotherapy phenotypes that suggest we may be closer to superheroes than we think.

BACKGROUND: Radiotherapy is a technically precise yet deeply human medical specialty, often underrepresented in narrative depictions of oncology. Like modern superhero stories, radiotherapy practice blends idealism, responsibility, moral ambiguity, and human limitation. This work explores the professional behaviours, cultural identities, and interpersonal dynamics within radiotherapy departments through a satirical but recognisable framework. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a qualitative, narrative-based observational study informed by long-term clinical experience in radiotherapy practice. Using thematic synthesis, reflective ethnography, and humour as analytical tools, recurrent professional behaviours and attitudes were identified and distilled into archetypal personas representing common patterns within the radiotherapy workforce. RESULTS: Seven archetypal radiotherapy phenotypes emerged, each embodying characteristic strengths, flaws, and decision-making styles. These personas illustrate tensions between evidence and action, precision and pragmatism, idealism and compromise, as well as the balance between technical excellence and human factors. Collectively, they provide an accessible framework to describe the social and cognitive ecology of contemporary radiotherapy practice. CONCLUSIONS: This satirical taxonomy highlights the diversity, complexity, and humanity of professionals working in radiotherapy. By framing the specialty as a "multiverse" of flawed yet committed heroes, the study offers an engaging perspective on clinical culture, professional identity, and self-awareness. Ultimately, it argues that maintaining humour and humility may be as essential to radiotherapy practice as technical precision.