NSIM

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Medical physicists use analytical and applied scientific techniques to assist healthcare workers in the safe diagnosis and treatment of patients.

Medical physicists use a variety of analytical, computer-aided and bioengineering techniques in their work such as radiotherapy, x-ray imaging, ultrasound, tomography, radiology, nuclear magnetic resonance imaging and lasers.

They work with patients and with a wide range of medical, technical and administrative staff.

Typical responsibilities of the job include:

• researching, developing and evaluating new analytical techniques

• planning and ensuring safe and accurate treatment of patients

• providing advice about radiation protection

• training and updating healthcare, scientific and technical staff

• managing radiotherapy quality assurance programmes

• mathematical modelling

• maintaining equipment

• writing reports

• teaching

• laboratory management

Qualifications and training required

To become a medical physicist a good degree in physics, applied science, computation, mathematics or engineering is necessary. However, for positions with the NHS, each NHS trust decides which degrees are relevant. A postgraduate qualification can be beneficial.

Research work, hospital laboratory placements and/or relevant experience gained using similar scientific and analytical techniques can also be useful.

Key skills for medical physicists

• A logical and inquisitive mind

• Excellent IT skills

• Analytical skills

• Good team working abilities

Typical employers of medical physicists

• Hospitals

• Universities

• Research organisations

• Diagnostic or medical instrumentation manufacturers

There are good prospects for promotion within the public sector as the NHS operates a structured career path and salary scale.