If you could research any particular disorder, disease, or illness which one would you choose, and why?
The interviewer would like to get to know you and your particular interests and/or passions. Your answer will offer insights into what motivates you in your field and your value as an asset.
"At Pfizer, I know that one of your primary focuses is on XYZ. This focus is one reason why I applied to work here because the study of XYZ is a particular passion of mine."
"We have so many options in research topics. If I had to choose just one area of research, I would choose to research autism and the spectrum in full. My little brother received an autism diagnosis, and I have the drive to learn more about it."
Imagine you had zero limitations, and describe what area within pharmaceuticals would you focus on. Be sure to show your passion for your career path and tie your answer into an area of focus related to Pfizer.
It's acceptable to initially choose more than one, explain what motivates you about each option, and narrow it down to one. It's worth researching where Pfizer is focusing their efforts, and highlighting how those may align with your answer.
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
At Pfizer, I know that one of your primary focus is on cancer medicines and FDA Approved IBRANCE for the Treatment of Men with Metastatic Breast Cancer. This particular focus is one reason I applied to work here; my little mother died due to cancer in her pancreas, and I have the drive to learn more about it.
Rachelle's Feedback
It seems you have a clear idea of Pfizer's primary interests. Your reasons are very personal, and the interviewer should appreciate the vulnerability you show in this response.
Anonymous Answer
I would focus on cardiac diseases. I worked with in vitro cardiac cells in my previous research. Those cells were very interesting, and I would like to work with them again. By working with induced human pluripotent stem cells, we might decrease the need for animal testing.
Marcie's Feedback
Wow! You've given a solid answer that provides strong reasons for choosing to research cardiac diseases if given the choice. Good job! What did you find interesting about the in vitro cardiac cells over others? Be sure to clarify this for the interviewer so they fully understand your fascination and interest in this area. Mentioning that researchers might be able to one day decrease the need for animal testing because of these stem cells is excellent.
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