Neurological conditions are complex and can reveal themselves in unusual ways. As a neurophysiology scientist, you’ll investigate disorders of the central and peripheral nervous system using a number of standardised testing protocols.
You can expect to interact with a wide range of patient groups including those with:
- epilepsy
- stroke
- multiple sclerosis
- traumatic brain injury
- abnormal brain development
- pain and problems due to damage to the nerves in the arms and legs, and many others.
As part of your role, you may undertake tests. The type you undertake will depend on where you work and your level of experience. You may perform:
- electroencephalogy (EEG)
- nerve conduction studies
- autonomic function testing
- evoked potentials.
You may also have involvement with epilepsy monitoring and intra operative monitoring.
The results of neurophysiological testing help assist in:
- the early detection and diagnosis of disease
- the management of disease
- the measurement of the effects of therapeutic interventions
- collecting data in research programs.
Qualifications
To work as a neurophysiology scientist, you’ll need an undergraduate degree in science with a strong human anatomy and physiology component.
It is an advantage to do a degree that provides a neurophysiology placement experience.
Read more about education requirements, training pathways and careers on the Association of Neurophysiology Scientists of Australia website.
You must also have relevant scientific and analytical skills to make sure test results are valid, reliable and achieved with consideration for patient safety. You must be able to adapt to new technologies and implement these.
Because neurophysiology investigations involve a high degree of patient effort and cooperation, you’ll also need excellent interpersonal skills. You may also need other advanced qualifications including:
- graduate certificate in science in medicine (clinical neurophysiology)
- graduate diploma medical science.
You’ll also need to be eligible for membership with one of the following professional associations and organisations: