PPD Clinical Research Associate Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our PPD interview questions. Click on any interview question to view our answer advice and answer examples. You may view 5 answer examples before our paywall loads. Afterwards, you'll be asked to upgrade to view the rest of our answers.
Behavioral
1. Can you think of a time you had a disagreement with a boss or coworker, and if so, how was it resolved?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Any time you work with someone else, there is a chance you will disagree on something at one time or another. The interviewer knows this. It's human nature for people to have their own opinions. What is important to the interviewer is whether or not you are willing to compromise and work through difficult situations with your coworkers. Being unwilling to compromise or find alternative solutions to a dispute can affect everyone on the team, even if it is indirectly. Sharing a personal experience is okay, but do not embellish it to 'be the hero.'
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on showing the interviewer you have excellent conflict resolution and communication skills. Let them know that you handle conflict maturely, professionally, and compassionately.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I believe if we think about it, each of us could remember at least one disagreement with a friend or coworker. Although I consider myself pretty easy-going, I am also very passionate about my patients and their care. I have been aware of disagreements between other coworkers, but I like to think of myself as a peacekeeper. I feel like professionals should be able to discuss things logically and come to an agreement that is satisfactory for everyone involved."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Behavioral
2. Contract Research Organizations such as PPD employ people from many different backgrounds with a variety of skills. Have you ever worked with a diverse group of people?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Diversity among peers and clients should be expected when working for a CRO. Some people are intimidated when faced with learning new cultures and beliefs, but in the healthcare industry, diversity is crucial to providing effective care. The interviewer wants to know that you are open to meeting and learning about new people and becoming an integral part of the team. Be positive in your response.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on giving an example of diverse groups you've worked with. Explain that you enjoy the experience of learning about new cultures and their beliefs.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"During my clinical rotation at University Medical Center, I worked with a large diverse group. I was given the opportunity to meet people from different cultures, religions, and professional backgrounds. It was an eye-opening experience, and I learned how many wonderful people there are!"
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Direct
3. This concludes our interview. Do you have any questions for me?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to make sure that all of your questions about the company or job role are answered during the interview. It is best to ask at least a question or two to show the interviewer your eagerness to learn all you can. Review the job announcement and research the company beforehand so you do not ask questions that could be found during your research.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on asking questions specific to the role you are interviewing for or the company culture and work environment. Examples of good questions are asking the interviewer how you performed in the interview or if you need to clarify anything, asking what the interviewer likes most about working for the company, or if they have any hesitancy about hiring you.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I do have a few questions. Thank you for asking. Could you please describe the company culture? Also, do you have any hesitancy in offering me the position?"
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Direct
4. How did you hear about this position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Companies invest a lot of money advertising their job openings. The interviewer wants to hear what methods are effective and which are not. They also want to hear if an employee of PPD referred you. Describe how you heard about the position, and be sure to give the name of the employee or recruiter who referred you if applicable. Some companies offer their employees a referral fee when referring a candidate, while others hire recruiters to seek out qualified candidates.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
The interviewer wants to briefly hear how you heard about the position. Be concise in your response, focusing on describing the recruiter's name, the website where the agency posted the job, PPD's website, or an employee referral.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I heard about the position after searching on the website Indeed."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Direct
5. What is PPD's mission?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see if you have done your research on PPD before your interview. You should be prepared to answer any questions the hiring manager has, such as the company's mission statement, its core values, the population they serve, the CEO of the company, and the year it was founded. Do your homework before any interview and learn all you can about the company.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
PPD's mission is 'to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner, and safer.' Focus on memorizing the mission so you can respond to this question with ease.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"PPD's mission is to enable their customers to make the world healthier, cleaner, and safer. I like that the mission is clear and to the point."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Direct
6. While PPD likes to employ people who have plans to work for us long-term, it is understandable if those plans change. Do you anticipate any significant changes in your life within the next 3-5 years?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
One of the good things about working for a CRO like PPD is that there are usually several projects for different sponsors being conducted simultaneously. Knowing your goals and any changes you anticipate in your life will allow the interviewer to evaluate two things - the positions available that won't disrupt your plans and if you are interested in having a long-term relationship with the company.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
If you anticipate a move or other significant change with a CRO, you may still be offered employment within a project that fits your time frame. Either way, being honest with the interviewer will benefit both you and PPD.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"No, I do not anticipate any significant changes in my life in the next 3 to 5 years. My husband is retired, and we recently bought a house in the area. We plan to stay close to our kids and grandkids, so we will not be moving. If chosen for the position, I plan on staying with your company for the long-term."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Direct
7. We require all candidates to submit to a pre-employment drug screen. Will there be an issue passing the drug screen?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer advises you of their pre-employment drug screen and asks if you'll pass, so they can decide if they want to continue with you in the hiring process. PPD invests a lot of money hiring employees, and they want to avoid sending you for a drug test if you will not pass.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
As with any interview question, you want to focus on being completely honest in your response. As embarrassing as it may be, if you do not think you will pass the drug test, you need to let the interviewer know that now. If passing the drug test will not be an issue, ensure the interviewer that you will pass the test because you do not use drugs.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"No, there will not be an issue with passing the drug test. I do not use drugs and never plan to."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Direct
8. This position requires travel approximately 75% of the time. Will traveling be a problem for you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
If the interviewer asks this question, they want to ensure you know the job requirements regarding travel and make sure that will not be an issue if hired. PPD Clinical Research Associates will need to travel a majority of the time. As part of PPD's traveling team of Clinical Research Associates (CRAs), you will visit medical staff at different sites, checking the documentation and process quality at each location to make sure patients are protected and that data is correct.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on assuring the interviewer that traveling will not be an issue when required. Emphasize that you enjoy traveling to new places and do not have outside obligations that prohibit you from doing so.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I saw that requirement listed in the job description, and traveling will not be a problem for me. I look forward to that aspect of the job."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Discovery
9. There are many qualified candidates applying to this position. What makes you the best candidate for the job?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to hear what qualities you will bring to PPD and benefit them if hired. Now is your chance to highlight your best characteristics and experience, showing the interviewer you have all the qualifications they require.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Review the job announcement before your interview and highlight the qualities, experience, and education PPD seeks in an employee. Then, focus on using those keywords in your response. When describing how you meet their job requirements, the interviewer will see that you are a highly qualified candidate and place you high on the candidate list.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am the best candidate for the position because I meet and exceed your job qualifications. I have over seven years of experience working as a Clinical Research Associate with diverse groups and cultures. I am empathetic, compassionate, level-headed, and work well under pressure. I have exceptional communication, analytical, and interpersonal skills, and I look forward to bringing my skills and experience to your wonderful organization."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Discovery
10. Why do you feel that participation in a clinical trial is a positive decision?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question asks for your opinion, but it is important to remember that when you give your opinion, you need facts to support it. This will show the interviewer you are knowledgeable about the topic of discussion.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
To be considered for the position, it is best to believe that participation in clinical trials is a positive decision. If you do not think participation is a good decision, the interviewer may feel you are not the right candidate for the job.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I believe that participants in clinical trials play a key role in drug development and discovery. Clinical trials contribute to knowledge and progress in treating and preventing diseases. Most importantly, participants can help others by contributing to medical knowledge and improving public health."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Discovery
11. Why did you pursue a career as a Clinical Research Associate?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear your reasons for choosing this profession to understand what motivates your career. They want to hear if you were mentored by another Clinical Research Associate, have family or friends who work in research, worked in another industry and decided to change careers, or had a loved one who participated in a clinical research trial.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on giving your reason for choosing this career, responding with enthusiasm and passion. There is no right or wrong answer. The interviewer wants to gain insight into what motivates and inspires you as a Clinical Research Associate to determine if you will be a good fit for their organization.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I pursued this career after my husband went through a clinical research trial that saved his life. I was impressed with the entire clinical team and felt working as a CRA best fit my skills. I had my bachelor's degree in life sciences and was pursuing a nursing degree, but I switched career paths to help patients differently."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Discovery
12. Why do you want to work for our company?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to understand why you chose PPD over other companies to work for. They want to see that you have done your research and can give solid reasons for choosing PPD. Respond with enthusiasm and passion to show the interviewer you are excited about the opportunity to work for their company.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on showing the interviewer you have done your homework. Review the company website, online reviews, and job description so you can give unique reasons for wanting to work for PPD. For example, suppose you review the job description and find specific duties you would be responsible for if hired. Then, when you mention those particular duties in your interview, the interviewer will see you were diligent in reading the job description, showing an attention to detail.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I want to work for your company because you are an industry leader recognized for training and innovation. You have a noble purpose, and you encourage professional development among all team members. I want to work with a team of like-minded individuals who holds the same values as me, and I see that with PPD."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Educational
13. Tell me about your education.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to determine if you have the education needed to perform your job as a Clinical Research Associate. They want to hear if you have a degree, certificates, or specialized training that qualifies you to work in this field.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Describe your education as it relates to the position. Most Clinical Research Associate jobs require a minimum of a bachelor's degree and work experience to apply for the position. You most likely have the necessary education and credentials, or you would not be invited to an interview. Assure the interviewer you have the required qualifications for the position.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I obtained my Bachelor's Degree in Clinical Research from Arizona State University three years ago. I then became a Certified Clinical Research Associate through the Society of Clinical Research Associates. I have agreed to a code of ethics and passed their exam. I have maintained my certification by completing the necessary continuing education units and am in good standing as a Clinical Research Associate."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Educational
14. PPD is supportive of our employee's continuing education efforts. Have you ever thought of going back to school?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
While PPD may support an employee who chooses to continue their education, you are not required to say you want to return to school. This is simply a 'get to know you' question. Share your thoughts with the interviewer.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on being honest and direct with the interviewer. If you are thinking of going back to school, explain what you plan to pursue. If higher education is not in your plan, let the interviewer know that while you are not against going back to school, you do not have plans to do so right now.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am very supportive of people who want to continue their education. However, I am happy with where I am in my career. Notwithstanding, if PPD encourages its employees to take specific courses or certifications, I would be willing. I just don't see myself going back to school for 3 or 4 years."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Experience
15. What is your experience working as a Clinical Research Associate?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The job announcement will say how many years of experience PPD requires. The interviewer wants to hear about your experience to ensure you are qualified for the position. Give examples of how many years of experience you have and who you have worked with previously.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Highlight the number of years of experience you have working as a Clinical Research Associate. Describe three or four of your job duties that align with the duties you would be performing with PPD. If you have not worked as a Clinical Research Associate, you may be considered for PPD's Clinical Research Associate Training Program, depending on the specific job you applied to.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I have worked as a Clinical Research Associate for the past five years. I worked for Charles River Laboratories for two years and Syneos Health for three years. My job duties include performing and coordinating all aspects of the clinical monitoring process, maintaining clinical data systems, coordinating research procedures, and updating study documentation."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
General
16. What do you like to do in your free time?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer asks this question to see what interests you and if you have healthy avenues to decompress. They want to hear what hobbies and activities you enjoy and know that you spend time away from work destressing from the pressures of the job.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing three or four activities you enjoy. The interviewer wants to see what you are interested in and determine how well you will get along with other team members based on your interests.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"In my free time, I enjoy outdoor activities that keep me in shape. My favorite activities are surfing, trail running, and kayaking. I also enjoy volunteer work at my church, gardening, and baking."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
General
17. Name three of your greatest strengths related to your profession.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to determine if you have the qualities they are looking for. Review the job description before your interview and look for keywords PPD used to describe its ideal candidate. Then, choose three of those keywords to describe your greatest strengths, showing the interviewer that you have the characteristics they are looking for.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Suppose the job description says PPD seeks an experienced, compassionate Clinical Research Associate with strong communication and interpersonal skills to work in a leadership position. In that case, describe your experience, compassion, communication, interpersonal, or leadership skills as your greatest strength. Focus on using three keywords from the job description so the interviewer can see that you have the qualities they are looking for in their ideal candidate.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"My greatest strengths as a Clinical Research Associate are my communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills. I have excellent verbal and written communication skills and can explain complex terms in easy-to-understand terms. I have led many diverse groups at work and in a volunteer capacity, and I have exceptional listening skills. I have over six years of experience honing these skills in my profession."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
General
18. What do you think are your best and worst qualities?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
No one wants to share anything negative about themselves. However, any honest person will admit that they have good and bad characteristics. The important thing is recognizing the things that may need improvement and being willing to address them. Share some of your qualities with the interviewer, and remember, when sharing any quality that could be improved, explain how you are working to make a change.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing a 'bad' quality that the interviewer can construe as a good one. For example, you can say that you are willing to take on many projects, but you end up becoming a workaholic.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"My best quality is that I am willing to work on any project I am asked to take on. My worst quality is that I am willing to take on too many projects at once. I've had to learn to pace myself and prioritize things that need to be done so that I am not overwhelmed, and my quality of work does not suffer because I am too busy."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
General
19. Would you describe yourself as a detail-oriented person?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
As a Clinical Research Associate, you must be detail-oriented. You will be responsible for conducting interviews, writing reports, analyzing data, and ensuring data accuracy through SDR, SDV, and CRF reviews. The interviewer wants to hear that you pay attention to detail to see that you will be an excellent addition to their team.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
If you have a letter of recommendation or performance review from a previous employer that describes your attention to detail, let the interviewer know when responding to this question. When a former employer or supervisor comments on your attention to detail, it carries more weight than when you describe yourself. If you do not have a letter or performance review, give an example of why you consider yourself a detail-oriented person.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I would describe myself as detail-oriented. I pride myself on catching even the slightest errors in reports and remembering the smallest details when interviewing participants and family members. My attention to detail has been mentioned in many performance reviews by my supervisors."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
General
20. What are your thoughts regarding people who become participants in a clinical trial but leave before the trial ends?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Although this could be mistaken as a trick question, it is not. When asked a question like this, it is essential to remember to withhold judgment. Stating your thoughts is okay as long as you think them through. With opinion questions, it is good to have a reason for responding a certain way in case the interviewer asks you to clarify why you have that opinion.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Even if you have an unpopular opinion regarding participants who leave a trial early, you want to focus on withholding a negative thought. The interviewer does not want to hire a Clinical Research Associate who is judgmental about others' decisions.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Without knowing why a participant chooses to leave a trial, it would be difficult for me to say exactly how I feel about their exit. Some people become ill or cannot take the effects of the treatment and are forced to leave, while others simply change their minds."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
General
21. What are some things that you would like others to notice about your personality?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
When working with large groups of people, there will be many different personalities and beliefs. This question allows the interviewer to get to know you. Remember, you want them to know the good qualities about you, but don't try to 'over-sell' yourself.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on providing one or two aspects of your personality that stand out to others. If you offer more than a few characteristics of your personality, the interviewer may feel that you are overly vain.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I think one thing that people notice about me rather quickly is that I am light-hearted and easy to get along with. Life has enough tension. I like to try to have a positive attitude and be the type of person that others feel they can easily approach."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
General
22. What is your greatest weakness, and what are you doing to improve?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to hear about your greatest weakness as a Clinical Research Associate to see that you are self-aware and can identify an area that needs improvement. When you admit you have a deficiency in a particular aspect of your profession and take steps to improve, it shows the interviewer that you are motivated and inspired to grow professionally.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on a weakness related to your profession, but not one that is an essential job duty. For example, suppose you say your weakness is your verbal communication skills. In that case, the interviewer may pass you over for another candidate since that skill is an essential part of being an excellent Clinical Research Associate.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"My greatest weakness is my lack of experience in this field. I am improving this weakness by applying for this position. I just graduated college and received my bachelor's degree and only have experience from my practicals. My goal is to get chosen for the position to start gaining hands-on experience. I am a quick learner, and you will not be disappointed in my performance if hired for the position."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
General
23. Would you describe yourself as a compassionate person?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The hiring manager wants to see if you consider yourself a compassionate person since PPD values helping others improve their health and well-being and care deeply about those they serve. PPD wants to hire like-minded individuals, so the hiring manager will ask you if you are compassionate to determine if you will be a good fit for the team.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Assure the hiring manager that you are a compassionate person. You can say you are a compassionate person, but giving an example of how you have helped others is better. For example, you can describe your volunteer experience, how you took care of an elderly relative, held the hand of a scared patient, or comforted a grieving family member. Give an example that shows you have compassion for others.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I am a very compassionate person. I have empathy and compassion for others and do not like seeing people down on their luck. I have volunteered at a soup kitchen that provides warm meals to people without homes for the past three years. I also volunteer at an animal shelter and take the animals for walks, play with them, and help clean their cages. I have compassion for animals and humans alike."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
General
24. At the end of the day, what makes you feel like you have done a good job or been successful?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Everyone wants to have a sense of fulfillment or accomplishment. The interviewer wants to know what gives you that feeling. Knowing what makes you feel accomplished tells the interviewer a lot about you and the kind of work ethic you have. Be open about what makes you feel like you have done a job well.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on providing a work-related answer. The interviewer wants to know how you feel inspired by the work you do each day.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"At the end of the day, I am happy knowing I have participated in a job/study that made a difference for someone. For instance, monitoring a clinical trial for a new medication that had great results for the participants would make me feel fulfilled."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
General
25. Knowing that both CROs and pharmaceutical companies conduct research and trials, what do you think would be an advantage working with a CRO rather than seeking employment with a large pharmaceutical company?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This is another question that the interviewer will use to get to know you. It is important to know that you don't have to 'oversell' the CRO concept or 'downplay' a pharmaceutical company. Simply stating some of the reasons you prefer a CRO is sufficient.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
There is no right or wrong answer to this question. The interviewer merely wants to know your reason for working for a CRO instead of a pharmaceutical company. Focus on describing why you think working for a CRO is advantageous.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I feel because CROs work with several pharmaceutical clients, there is more job stability. If one project is dropped unexpectedly, a CRO can place an employee on a new project with a different sponsor."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
General
26. PPD likes to encourage a healthy work/life balance. What are some things you like to do maintain a healthy balance between work and your personal life?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
No matter what profession a person chooses, everyone needs some time to unwind and relax. Psychologists today say that a healthy balance in life allows a person to recharge and refocus, resulting in better productivity at work. The interviewer simply wants to know what you do for yourself. Maybe you have a favorite pastime or hobby. This is yet another way for the interviewer to get to know you as a person.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on describing three or four activities you enjoy. The interviewer wants to see what you are interested in and that you maintain a healthy work/life balance.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I enjoy working out at the gym, and I also take a yoga class twice weekly. After a good workout or class, I always feel like I can rest better and wake up energized and ready for the next day. I also spend a lot of time with my sister and nieces on my days off. Family time is very important in maintaining a good work/life balance."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Leadership
27. Do you see yourself as a leader? When have you led a team?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Perhaps you have led a team at work, been a coach for a youth sports team, or were on the advisory board for a non-profit organization. Be prepared to show the interviewer that you have a natural ability to lead others. Whether you have led a group of 500 or a team of 2, demonstrate that you can handle the responsibility of being a leader and mentor.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Talk about your desire to be a leader. Focus your answer on sharing with the interviewer that you strive to be a role model for others. Explain that you jump at the opportunity to lead groups, encourage your counterparts, and be the face of the organization when challenges arise.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I see myself as a leader. Not only have I managed a team in two prior roles, but I also believe that leadership does not always equate to management. I lead at all times by providing the best model of enthusiasm and work ethic."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Teamwork
28. How well do you collaborate with others?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Most of your job duties as a Clinical Research Associate will involve collaborating with other members of the research team and participants. The interviewer wants to hear that you are a team player and can work well with diverse groups.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
If you have experience working as a Clinical Research Associate, describe how well you have collaborated with others in the past. If you are new to this field, use an experience from a former job, sports team, or school to describe how you work well with others.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"I collaborate very well with others. It helps when like-minded individuals work toward a common goal for clinical trials to flow smoothly. In my ten years of working as a Clinical Research Associate, I have collaborated with many healthcare teams, physicians, and participants and never had any issues. I like working independently but enjoy working with others and learning from their experiences."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Technical
29. Do you understand what a 'double-blind' trial is?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Understanding the differences between the various types of clinical trials is essential when working in research. Any time you can answer an interviewer's question correctly and confidently, you increase your chances of being offered employment.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on giving a brief description of a double-blind trial. The interviewer wants to determine whether you know the difference between a double-blind clinical trial and other types of trials.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I do understand 'double-blind' trials. In this type of trial, like a controlled trial, one group of participants receives the experimental drug or treatment while another group receives a placebo or standard treatment. In a 'double-blind,' the difference is that neither the staff working the trial nor the participants are aware which group is receiving which treatment."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Technical
30. Are you familiar with the difference between diagnostic trials and screening trials?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Knowing the differences between various types of trials is essential for those working in research. Because there is such a variety of trials, there is often the opportunity to work on more than one. Many researchers have stated that they like this option as it gives them the chance to learn more and not experience burnout as quickly. If you know the difference between the trials in this question, elaborate on them briefly. If you are unsure, it's ok to say so and ask the interviewer to differentiate for you.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
As with any interview question, be honest in your response. Focus on telling the interviewer if you know the difference between the two trials and give a brief description of both. If you do not know the difference, explain that you do not but would like to learn.
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022
Answer Example
"Diagnostic trials are conducted to find better tests or procedures for diagnosing a particular disease or condition. Screening trials are the best way to detect certain diseases or health conditions."
Written by Krista Wenz on May 18th, 2022