Neurophysiologist

What does a neurophysiologist do? – Tasks and work environment

A neurophysiologist is a specialist doctor who works with examining and diagnosing diseases of the nervous system. The role involves interpreting advanced measurements of the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves, often using technical equipment such as EEG, EMG, and neurography. Tasks include direct patient contact and analysis of collected data, requiring precision and extensive medical knowledge. Neurophysiologists are typically employed at larger hospitals or university hospitals and work closely with other doctors and healthcare staff in a high-tech environment. The work environment is clinical and characterized by high demands for accuracy and teamwork.

Salary development over time

Over the past three years, salary development for neurophysiologists has shown a clear positive trend. In 2022, the average salary was 86,400 SEK per month. The following year, the average increased to 92 200 SEK, corresponding to a rise of about 6.7%. Between 2023 and 2024, salaries continued to rise, albeit at a slightly slower pace, reaching the current level of 93 600 SEK – an increase of an additional 1.5%. This salary growth reflects a continued high demand for specialist competence in neurophysiology, while recruitment difficulties and increased requirements for advanced education drive up salaries. The market for neurophysiologists has thus benefited from skills shortages and growing medical needs, explaining the strong salary development.

Neurophysiologist salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 93 600 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 84,600 SEK/month
• Highest salary: 110,600 SEK/month
• Hourly wage (average): 563 SEK
• Men's average salary: 94 300 SEK/month
• Women's average salary: 92 900 SEK/month
• Women earn: 98% of men's salary
• Highest salary (man): 110,600 SEK/month (public sector, more than 3 years of postgraduate education)
• Highest salary (woman): 101,500 SEK/month
• Lowest salary (man): 84,600 SEK/month (private sector, unspecified education level)
• Lowest salary (woman): 91,200 SEK/month

Education and qualifications

To work as a neurophysiologist, a long and specialized educational path is required. The profession is based on a medical degree, followed by internship (AT), specialist training (ST) in clinical neurophysiology, and often additional courses or research. Neurophysiologists also need good technical understanding and experience with advanced equipment.

• Medical degree: 5.5 years at university
• Internship (AT): approximately 1.5–2 years
• Specialist training (ST): 5 years in clinical neurophysiology
• Advanced courses/research: Recommended for specialization
• Prerequisites: Basic eligibility, medical program
• Tips for choosing: Interest in medicine, technology, and neurology is essential

Common benefits and compensations

In addition to a high base salary, employment as a neurophysiologist often includes benefits such as extra vacation, occupational pension, skills development, wellness allowance, and opportunities for research or educational support. In some cases, flexible working hours and compensation for on-call duties are also offered, depending on the employer and employment type.

Competition and challenges

The job market for neurophysiologists is characterized by high demand and a limited number of trained specialists, leading to recruitment difficulties in many parts of the country. At the same time, the profession requires continuous further education to keep pace with rapid technological advances in medical diagnostics. Challenges may also arise from workload and the need to make quick, accurate medical decisions under pressure. Additionally, the ability to combine medical expertise with technical understanding is a competitive advantage, which not all doctors possess. Overall, neurophysiologists who stay updated and develop their skills have great opportunities, but also face high demands.

Tips for those who want to become neurophysiologists

To succeed as a neurophysiologist, it is good to be analytical, meticulous, and technically interested already during studies. It is recommended to early specialize in neurology and participate in research projects to strengthen your scientific foundation. Good teamwork skills are crucial as the work is done in interdisciplinary teams, and the ability to communicate clearly with both patients and colleagues facilitates daily work. High stress tolerance is important, especially during urgent investigations and quick decisions. Being curious about technological innovations and continuously furthering your education in the field provides a competitive edge in the profession. Finally, a genuine focus on patients and empathy are central to building trust and delivering the best possible care.

Key facts about Neurophysiologist

• Educational level: Medical degree + specialist training (total 12+ years)
• Work environment: Clinical, high-tech hospital setting
• Work mode: Full-time, often daytime but some on-call shifts
• Demand: Very high, 375 available jobs in the profession
• Special skills: Neurology, medical technology, data analysis

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years in the profession, a neurophysiologist can advance to leadership roles within clinical practice, research, or education. There are also opportunities to specialize further in areas such as epilepsy, sleep medicine, or neuromuscular diseases. Forecasts from the Employment Service indicate that demand for neurophysiologists and other specialist doctors is expected to be very high in the coming five years, with further growth anticipated. The national recruitment situation is characterized by the paradox of both recruitment difficulties and high workload, which suggests good future prospects for those choosing this career path.

Frequently asked questions about Neurophysiologist

• What does a neurophysiologist earn?
  - The average salary for a neurophysiologist is 93 600 SEK per month.
• How do salary differences between genders look?
  - Women earn 98% of what men do in the profession.
• What education is required to become a neurophysiologist?
  - A medical degree followed by specialist training in clinical neurophysiology is required.
• What is the job market like for neurophysiologists?
  - Demand is very high and there are 375 available jobs within the profession.
• What is the highest salary for a neurophysiologist?
  - The highest salary is 110,600 SEK per month and belongs to a man in the public sector.
• What does a neurophysiologist do in their daily work?
  - The work involves diagnosing the nervous system using advanced medical technology and patient contact.
• Are there regional salary differences for neurophysiologists?
  - Salary levels can vary between different regions, mainly depending on the employer and demand.