Professor Murphy’s main research interest is in the biological determinants of brain development and ageing; and how abnormalities in this process lead to neuropsychiatric disorders. He has a particular interest in autism.

He undertook his clinical training at the Maudsley Hospital. His research training was firstly at the Institute of Psychiatry (IoP); and then at the National Institute of Aging (National Institute of Health, USA).

Following this (and in a never to be repeated moment of homesickness!) he returned to the UK to a research position at the IoP.

He is currently:

1. Head of Department of Forensic and Neurodevelopmental Sciences, Institute of Psychiatry; and Kings Partners Academic Health Sciences Centre, Kings College, London.
2. Head, Centre of Female Health and Neurodevelopment. Institute of Psychiatry; and Kings Partners Academic Health Sciences Centre, Kings College, London.
3. Research Lead on Behavioural and Developmental Disorders; Institute of Psychiatry; and Kings Partners Academic Health Sciences Centre, Kings College, London.
4. Lead Investigator Antisocial Behaviour theme in Biomedical Research Centre; Institute of Psychiatry; and Kings Partners Academic Health Sciences Centre, Kings College, London.
5. Lead investigator on the MRC funded UK multicentre neuroimaging network for research in autism (MRC UK AIMS Program).
6. Lead investigator on a new Department of Health (UK) clinical research program for adults with ADHD and Autism.
7. R & D lead National Services in the South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust.
8. Clinical director of adult services for autism spectrum disorders and ADHD at the South London and Maudsley NHS Trust.
9. Clinical director National Division of Behavioural Disorders, South London and Maudsley NHS Foundation Trust.