Top interview questions to expect

1. Tell me about a time you faced a challenging technical problem in the lab and how you resolved it.
2. Describe a situation where you had to work effectively as part of a laboratory team.
3. Share an instance where you demonstrated attention to detail and accuracy in your laboratory work.
4. Can you recall a time when you had to prioritize multiple tasks and handle them efficiently?
5. Give me an example of a time when you had to communicate complex scientific information to non-technical stakeholders.
6. Tell me about a situation where you identified a potential safety hazard in the lab and took appropriate action.
7. Describe a time when you had to troubleshoot and resolve an unexpected issue with laboratory equipment.

Check the latest questions for this role:

Answering interview questions with STAR structure

The STAR framework is a commonly used method for answering behavioral interview questions effectively. It stands for Situation, Task, Action, and Result.

* Situation: Briefly describe the context or situation in which the event took place.
* Task: Explain the specific task or responsibility you had in that situation.
* Action: Detail the actions you took to address the challenge or complete the task.
* Result: Describe the positive outcome or resolution that resulted from your actions.

Using the STAR framework helps you provide structured, concise, and relevant answers that highlight your skills, abilities, and accomplishments.

Sample answers to above interview questions

1. Tell me about a time you faced a challenging technical problem in the lab and how you resolved it.

Answer:

* Situation: During a routine experiment, I encountered unexpected results that deviated significantly from the expected values.
* Task: My task was to identify the root cause of the discrepancy and rectify the issue promptly to ensure accurate and reliable results.
* Action: I systematically reviewed the experimental procedure, checked the reagents and equipment, and consulted with my colleagues to brainstorm potential causes. After careful analysis, I discovered a minor error in the experimental setup that could have led to the incorrect readings.
* Result: By identifying and correcting the error, I was able to obtain accurate and consistent results, ensuring the integrity of the experiment. My proactive approach and attention to detail prevented further complications and enabled the smooth completion of the study.

Why it’s a strong answer:

This answer effectively demonstrates the candidate’s problem-solving skills, analytical thinking, and commitment to accuracy. It showcases their ability to identify and rectify technical issues efficiently, ensuring the integrity of laboratory results.

2. Describe a situation where you had to work effectively as part of a laboratory team.

Answer:

* Situation: As part of a research team, we were tasked with analyzing a large dataset to identify potential biomarkers for a disease.
* Task: My responsibility was to collaborate with team members to gather, clean, and organize the data, ensuring its accuracy and consistency.
* Action: I actively engaged with my colleagues, sharing my expertise in data analysis and visualization. We worked together to develop a standardized approach to data handling, ensuring that everyone followed the same protocols. Regular communication and coordination enabled us to complete the data analysis efficiently and effectively.
* Result: By working as a cohesive team, we were able to identify several potential biomarkers that could aid in the early detection of the disease. Our collaborative efforts contributed to the successful completion of the research project.

Why it’s a strong answer:

This answer highlights the candidate’s teamwork skills, effective communication, and ability to contribute to a collaborative research environment. It demonstrates their understanding of the importance of standardized data handling and their commitment to achieving shared goals.

3. Share an instance where you demonstrated attention to detail and accuracy in your laboratory work.

Answer:

* Situation: During a routine quality control procedure, I noticed a slight deviation in the readings of a laboratory instrument.
* Task: My responsibility was to investigate the cause of the deviation and ensure that the instrument was functioning properly.
* Action: I meticulously examined the instrument, checking its calibration, maintenance records, and operational parameters. I consulted the manufacturer’s guidelines and troubleshooting procedures to identify potential issues.
* Result: Through my careful investigation, I discovered a minor misalignment in the instrument’s sensor. By promptly adjusting the sensor and recalibrating the instrument, I ensured that it was operating within acceptable limits. This prevented potential errors in subsequent experiments and maintained the integrity of the laboratory’s data.

Why it’s a strong answer:

This answer showcases the candidate’s attention to detail, their commitment to accuracy, and their ability to troubleshoot and resolve technical issues promptly. It highlights their understanding of the importance of maintaining laboratory equipment and their proactive approach to ensuring data integrity.

4. Can you recall a time when you had to prioritize multiple tasks and handle them efficiently?

Answer:

* Situation: During a busy period in the laboratory, I was assigned multiple tasks with varying deadlines.
* Task: My responsibility was to prioritize the tasks, allocate my time effectively, and complete them all within the specified deadlines.
* Action: I created a task list, assigning each task a priority level based on its importance and urgency. I broke down complex tasks into smaller, manageable steps and focused on one task at a time. I also communicated with my colleagues to ensure that we were all aware of each other’s workload and could support each other if needed.
* Result: By prioritizing my tasks and managing my time efficiently, I was able to complete all the assigned tasks on time and to a high standard. My ability to handle multiple responsibilities simultaneously contributed to the smooth operation of the laboratory.

Why it’s a strong answer:

This answer demonstrates the candidate’s time management skills, their ability to prioritize tasks, and their commitment to meeting deadlines. It highlights their ability to work independently and as part of a team to achieve shared goals.

5. Give me an example of a time when you had to communicate complex scientific information to non-technical stakeholders.

Answer:

* Situation: As part of a research project, I was tasked with presenting our findings to a group of non-technical stakeholders, including investors and policymakers.
* Task: My responsibility was to simplify and explain complex scientific concepts in a clear and engaging manner, ensuring that the stakeholders understood the significance of our research.
* Action: I prepared a presentation that used simple language, analogies, and visual aids to illustrate the key findings and their implications. I anticipated potential questions and prepared concise and informative answers. During the presentation, I maintained eye contact and encouraged互动, ensuring that the stakeholders were actively engaged.
* Result: The presentation was well-received by the stakeholders. They expressed their understanding of our research and appreciated our efforts to communicate the findings in a clear and accessible manner. This positive feedback reinforced my ability to effectively communicate scientific information to diverse audiences.

Why it’s a strong answer:

This answer highlights the candidate’s communication skills, their ability to adapt their language to different audiences, and their commitment to making complex information accessible to non-technical stakeholders. It demonstrates their understanding of the importance of engaging stakeholders and promoting a shared understanding of scientific research.

6. Tell me about a situation where you identified a potential safety hazard in the lab and took appropriate action.

Answer:

* Situation: During a routine safety inspection of the laboratory, I noticed a faulty electrical outlet near a water source.
* Task: My responsibility was to immediately address the safety hazard to prevent potential accidents or injuries.
* Action: I promptly reported the issue to my supervisor and cordoned off the area to restrict access. I contacted a qualified electrician to assess and repair the faulty outlet. I also updated the laboratory’s safety records and reminded my colleagues about the importance of adhering to safety protocols.
* Result: The safety hazard was promptly addressed, preventing any potential accidents or injuries. My proactive approach to identifying and reporting the issue demonstrated my commitment to maintaining a safe and secure laboratory environment.

Why it’s a strong answer:

This answer showcases the candidate’s safety awareness, their attention to detail, and their commitment to taking prompt action to address potential hazards. It highlights their understanding of the importance of adhering to safety protocols and their willingness to take responsibility for maintaining a safe working environment.

7. Describe a time when you had to troubleshoot and resolve an unexpected issue with laboratory equipment.

Answer:

* Situation: During an experiment, a centrifuge malfunctioned, causing a delay in the analysis of critical samples.
* Task: My responsibility was to quickly troubleshoot the issue and resolve it to minimize the impact on the research project.
* Action: I systematically checked the centrifuge’s power supply, connections, and settings. I consulted the manufacturer’s manual and troubleshooting guide to identify potential causes of the malfunction. Through careful analysis, I discovered a minor mechanical issue that was causing the centrifuge to stop prematurely.
* Result: By promptly identifying and resolving the mechanical issue, I was able to restore the centrifuge to proper operation, ensuring that the critical samples were analyzed on time. My quick thinking and problem-solving skills prevented further delays and ensured the successful completion of the research project.

Why it’s a strong answer:

This answer demonstrates the candidate’s troubleshooting skills, their ability to remain calm under pressure, and their commitment to finding solutions to unexpected problems. It highlights their understanding of laboratory equipment and their willingness to consult resources to identify and resolve issues efficiently.