In your opinion, what's the biggest development in biotechnology in the past three years?
Your interviewer is looking to gauge your interest and knowledge of the industry spaces that Johnson & Johnson occupies. Again, whenever you're asked similar questions and are challenged with coming up with different answers, you're being tested on your attention to detail (the subtleties of how this question differs from the others) and how well you work under pressure. This question is designed to test your industry knowledge.
"There have been so many developments in biotechnology the past three years, but I do feel that the biggest was the development in gene editing. It's an incredibly controversial and intriguing practice., but there is so much great potential here in curing hereditary diseases before birth."
"There is a multitude of biotech developments from which to choose! I was recently reading about the use of biosensors to monitor key measurements like blood pressure, body temperature, and heart rate. I think that the development of advanced biosensors will totally change the medical field in helping predict things like stroke and heart attacks prior to them happening."
Maybe you're an experienced veteran in the industry and can talk knowledgeably on any such topics. If not, spend time preparing for your interview. The term 'biotechnology' refers to the use of cells and molecules used to create a product within medicine, genetic testing, or even agriculture. Talk about one or two of the biggest new innovations in that space.
Have your notes ready going into the interview, as well as something to take notes with throughout the interview. Do not use your phone to look things up. Do not use your phone to take notes. Do not use your phone to refer to your notes. You want to look as if you are prepared for the interview, and not using your phone to scramble for answers. Perception is everything.
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
If I had to choose the top biotech breakthrough in the past three years, that would be the use of the CRISPR system for gene editing to treat genetic diseases and HIV. This tool is relatively new, and we are still not aware of its full potential in medicine. On the other hand, its use has been very intriguing and controversial.
Rachelle's Feedback
Sounds intriguing, indeed! Does J&J have any involvement or future interest in this breakthrough? If so, it may be helpful to mention what you know about that.
Anonymous Answer
The biggest development has been in decoding genetics to prevent and treat disease more specifically.
Rachelle's Feedback
This is huge, indeed! Is there a way that you can tie this development into something complimentary that J&J is involved with, or creating?
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