New methods of physics have always changed the face of medicine. In medical applications, where ionizing radiation sources are used, progress depends to a large extent on innovations in the construction of better radiation detectors and dosimeters, accelerators, diagnostic methods, models and computational methods. The aim of the lecture is to present current trends in the application of physics to radiotherapy, but with many references to the research and development that led to the establishment of the Cyclotron Center Bronowice. The presentation will also provide opportunities for discussion on the future of this research at our institute.