Preparing for a medical physics STP interview

Know the role and your application

Read the description of your chosen specialism and revisit the examples in your application. Be ready to explain what you did, why you made a particular choice and what you learned.

Practise explaining science

Choose a topic you know, such as a measurement method or an imaging technique. Explain it first to someone without a science background, then add the detail you would use with a physicist.

Think about the assumptions behind your explanation, how you would check a result and why it matters for patients or colleagues.

Give your answer a clear shape

• ✓Answer the main question first.
• ✓Explain the reasoning behind your answer.
• ✓Use an example if it helps.
• ✓Say what you would check or ask for help with if you were unsure.

Rehearse with practice questions

Try a few questions aloud, then ask someone to tell you which parts were clear and which needed more explanation. You can practise again using their feedback.

Check the arrangements for your interview

Check the NSHCS applicant guidance and your invitation for the format, timing and rules for your recruitment round.

Find out what materials or technology you may use and how to request reasonable adjustments. If the interview is online, test your camera, microphone and connection in advance.