Medical physics careers in the UK
Explore a career in medical physics
Find out what medical physicists do, how to train and where to look for work. Our guides cover career routes across the UK, the Scientist Training Programme (STP), applications and interviews.
What would you like to explore?
Getting startedLearn about the work, qualifications and training routes.Explore the career Applying for the STPCheck the entry requirements, application dates and how to prepare.Plan your application Choosing a specialismCompare radiotherapy, nuclear medicine and imaging work.Explore specialisms Preparing for an interviewPractise explaining scientific ideas and talking about your experience.Prepare for an interview Finding a jobBrowse NHS vacancies and learn what to look for in a job description.Browse jobs
How does physics help patients?
Medical physicists use physics, maths and computing to help diagnose illness and plan treatment. They test equipment, improve medical images and check that radiation is used safely.
The work brings together practical experiments, data analysis and teamwork. You could help plan cancer treatment, improve an MRI scan or investigate how a piece of hospital equipment is performing.
Sources
Guidance checked: 13 July 2026