Neurophysiologist

Neurophysiologists conduct procedures to investigate the function of the nervous system. They work with patients who have neurological disorders such as epilepsy, strokes, dementia, nerve and muscle dysfunction and multiple sclerosis. They use:

• electroencephalography (EEG) to record the electrical activity of a patient's brain
• electromyography (EMG) and nerve conduction studies (NCS) to assess the function of the nerves and muscles
• evoked potentials (EPs) to assess the brain's response to stimuli such as a flashing light or sound.

Neurophysiologists analyse their findings and report on them to the doctors responsible for the patients. This helps the doctors to make diagnoses, identify methods of treatment and measure the effects of treatment. Neurophysiologists may also test and adjust equipment. They work closely with doctors, nurses and other healthcare staff.

Neurophysiologists usually work standard hours. This may involve shifts and being on call some evenings or weekends. Many work part time or job share. They are normally based in a hospital neurophysiology department and carry out procedures in a clinic or dedicated testing room.

Salaries within the NHS range from at least £20,710 for a newly-qualified neurophysiologist up to £79,031 a year or more for some managers.

A neurophysiologist should:

• have an aptitude for science
• be good at analysing information
• have excellent communication skills, both spoken and written
• be able to get on well with people of all ages and from a wide variety of backgrounds
• have an interest in science and healthcare
• like working with people.

There are around 400 neurophysiologists in the UK. Most are employed by the NHS. Some work for agencies and act as locums who stand in for other physiologists in their absence. A small number work in research, in private healthcare companies and for the armed forces. There is a shortage of neurophysiologists at present, with a demand for a greater number.

Entry is usually with at least two or three A levels or equivalent. Some study full time for a clinical physiology degree with a neurophysiology specialty before entering this work. Most enter directly into a hospital neurophysiology department and study part time for the degree. For more information on entry and training, see Clinical Physiologist.

Promotion is possible to supervisory, specialist and senior levels within the NHS. Some experienced neurophysiologists go into research. Working abroad may also be an option.

Further information

Association of Neurophysiological Scientists, c/o Neurophysiology Department,
Birmingham Children's Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Steelhouse Lane, Birmingham B4 6NH. Website: www.ansuk.org

September 2009