Medical physicists apply the principles of physics to patient care. They research, design and develop techniques and equipment used by medical staff to diagnose and treat patients.

The role of a medical physicist is to: 

• commission and test new systems designed to assess what is happening in the body, for example, ultrasound or nuclear medicine
• make sure the new system is maintained and safe to operate
• train hospital staff in the use of new systems
• provide support during the implementation of a new technique or complex treatment
• help plan a treatment programme and explain procedures to patients.

They are often involved with advancing, developing and supporting the use of a range of techniques and treatments including:

• imaging techniques - created using light, ultrasound, radio frequency radiation, x and y radiation and magnetic resonance for tracking physiological processes and aiding image-guided surgery
  
• radiation - calculating dosages for beams and internal radioactive sources used in the treatment of cancers
  
• electronic technology - used in a variety of ways to take physiological measurements and test or replace organ function
  
• laser technology - a means of minimal invasive therapy used for applications such as fragmenting kidney stones, or in the treatment of eye disorders.

They may also be responsible for radiation protection advice and services in the hospital for staff and patients, and for the environment.

Medical physicists use computer applications and mathematical modelling throughout their work. Many are involved in research, and working closely with other professionals to overcome clinical problems. Some medical physicists are involved in university lecturing. 

Hours and Environment

Medical physicists in the NHS will usually work around 37 hours a week, which can include some on-call, evening or weekend work.

As a medical physicist you may be based in a hospital, clinic or laboratory. You will wear protective clothing and take other necessary measures when working with hazardous substances and radiation. You will often spend long periods sitting or standing.

Skills and Interests

To be a medical physicist, you should:

• have a high level of ability and interest in physical sciences and computing
• have an interest in medicine and in the development of new methods of patient care and treatment
• be able to concentrate for long periods, with a high level of attention to detail
• have high ethical standards
• be able to take responsibility for decisions
• have an enquiring mind and good problem solving skills
• have excellent oral and written communication skills
• be able to reassure nervous patients.

Entry

To become a medical physicist you will need a first or upper second-class honours degree in a physical or engineering science subject. Alternative subjects may be acceptable if you can demonstrate experience in the physical sciences.

To get on to a degree course you will usually need five GCSEs (A-C)/S grades (1-3) plus at least two A levels/three H grades, including appropriate science subjects. Please check with colleges or universities for exact entry requirements.

An MSc, PhD or relevant industrial experience are likely to give you an advantage when applying for trainee positions.

Training

As a medical physicist within the NHS you will usually begin working as a Grade A trainee. You will spend around two years learning on the job in an approved department, whilst studying towards an accredited MSc in Medical Physics. Successful completion of this training programme leads to a diploma awarded by the Institution of Physics and Engineering in Medicine (IPEM). This means you can apply for Grade B positions.

If you have relevant qualifications and substantial experience you may be eligible to apply directly for a Grade B post.

As a medical physicist at Grade B, the main professional grade, you can follow the IPEM's Programme of Advanced Training (PAT) which takes a further two years and leads to Corporate Membership of the IPEM. This means you can apply for Senior Grade B positions.

As a senior physicist in the NHS you must be state registered. Successful completion of the initial stage of training, MSc and IPEM Diploma, plus two years of PAT will satisfy the criteria for state registration.

As a medical physicist you can study part-time for a PhD. Throughout your career, you need to keep up with the latest scientific and medical research and continue to increase your lab skills and management techniques.

Opportunities

The majority of medical physicists in the UK work in the NHS. You will also find opportunities for work with private hospitals, medical research institutes and in the medical equipment industry.

The highest level in this field is Grade C. To be a medical physicist at this grade, you need to be in charge of a scientific department or have made an outstanding contribution to the profession.

Annual Income

Figures are intended as a guideline only.

Medical physicists can earn between £20,000 and £31,000 a year.
Medical physics managers can earn around £40,000.

An additional allowance is paid to those working in the London area. Salaries in the private sector are usually linked to those in the NHS but may be higher.

Further information

Tel: 08000 150 850
Email: learning@nhscareers.nhs.uk PO Box 376
Bristol
BS99 3EY
Tel: 0845 606 0655 Fairmount House
230 Tadcaster Road
York
YO24 1ES
Tel: 01904 610821