30 Medical Research - Genome Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Medical Research - Genome 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.
1. What is your knowledge regarding the connection between maternal age and genetic abnormalities?
How to Answer
There is much speculation as to the causes of genetic abnormalities and maternal age is one thing that seems to be a link in some cases. Do you have any knowledge/experience with information to support this?
1st Answer Example
"Women are born with all the eggs they will ever have. Some researchers believe that errors can crop up in the eggs' genetic material as they age which leads to genetic abnormalities in babies born to older mothers."
2nd Answer Example
"I have read and done some studies on genetic abnormalities with relation to parental age. Because men produce new sperm throughout their lives, paternal age does not increase risk of chromosome abnormalities. Older women, however, are considered to be at higher risk of giving birth to babies with chromosome abnormalities than younger women. This is thought to be so because women are born with all the eggs they will have for their lifetime and, as those eggs age, the genetic material within the eggs is thought to change."
2. Are you familiar with Jacobsen syndrome?
How to Answer
Genome research is one of the most in depth areas of medical research. There are a variety of different chromosomal abnormalities/syndromes and Jacobsen syndrome is one of the more rare. If you have any knowledge regarding this syndrome, share it with the interviewer.
1st Answer Example
"I am familiar with the disorder, but have never directly cared for a patient with the syndrome. It's my understanding that Jacobsen syndrome results from a loss of genetic material at the end of the long arm of chromosome 11. It results in varying symptoms, but most individuals experience delayed development in motor skills and speech, learning difficulties, and some behavioral problems."
2nd Answer Example
"Individuals with Jacobsen syndrome are missing genetic material from the end of the long arm of chromosome 11 and have extra genetic material from another chromosome. Characteristics include distinctive facial features; delayed development of motor skills and speech; and cognitive impairment."
3. What made you choose a career in genome research?
How to Answer
This is a simple question that will speak volumes to the interviewer. With so many career choices available, the interviewer is curious to know what made you choose this profession. If you experienced something in your past that made you appreciate a healthcare provider, share that experience. This is a perfect opportunity for the interviewer to know you on a personal level.
"I have always had an interest in medicine and genetics is fascinating to me. It just seemed like a logical choice for me to begin a career in genome research."
1st Answer Example
"I have always had an interest in medicine and genetics is fascinating to me. It just seemed like a logical choice for me to begin a career in genome research."
2nd Answer Example
"One of my cousins who is several years younger than me was born with genetic abnormalities. When I was a kid I always said I was going to 'grow up and find a way to fix him.' Even though I couldn't do that, I always had a desire to study genetics and be a part of the development of new ways to predict and treat genetic abnormalities."
4. Do you have any experience/knowledge about "Cat Cry Syndrome"?
How to Answer
When interviewing for genome research positions, the interviewer may ask you about different genetic disorders. Remember, no one is expected to know every diagnosis or have a complete understanding of every disorder. If you have heard of a syndrome or disorder that the interviewer asks about, share what you know. If you are asked about something that you have no experience with, say so and show an interest in learning.
1st Answer Example
"I have never learned about Cat Cry Syndrome. There are so many genetic abnormalities and I am so intrigued by them. The opportunities to be exposed to more education with genome research is why I chose to apply for employment here at Company ABC."
2nd Answer Example
"I have heard of Cat Cry Syndrome. I believe the clinical name is Cri du Chat syndrome and it is caused by missing a piece of chromosome 5. Symptoms include a high-pitched cry that sounds like a cat (hence the name Cat Cry Syndrome), downward slant of the eyes, partial webbing of fingers or toes, and slow or incomplete development of motor skills."
5. Can you tell me two types of Trisomy 16?
How to Answer
Trisomy 16 is a chromosomal abnormality in which there are 3 copies of chromosome 16 rather than two. It is the most common trisomy leading to miscarriage and the second most common chromosomal cause of it, closely following X-chromosome monosomy. While interviewers do not expect you to know the details of every chromosomal abnormality, understanding some of them and being able to describe characteristics is favorable in an interview.
1st Answer Example
" Full Trisomy 16 occurs when an individual has three copies of chromosome 16 instead of the usual two and Mosaic Trisomy 16 is a rare disorder in which an extra chromosome 16 is present in some cells, but not all."
2nd Answer Example
"I am familiar with Mosaic Trisomy 16and Full Trisomy 16. Mosaic trisomy 16 is rare and shows patients having an extra chromosome 16 is present in only some cells. Full Trisomy 16 which is caused by someone having three copies of chromosome 16 instead of the usual two and is the most common chromosomal cause of miscarriage during the pregnancy's first trimester. Some common symptoms include intrauterine growth retardation and congenital heart defects."
6. Being a healthcare provider is rewarding, but can also be very stressful at times. Can you share a situation that was difficult for you and how you worked through it?
How to Answer
The interviewer recognizes that, while being a healthcare provider has its benefits, it can often be trying at times. This question gives you the chance to show how your vulnerability meets your strengths. Having balance between the two is a sought-after characteristic of healthcare providers. Being willing to open up to the interviewer about a situation that was emotional for you and how you were able to cope will show him what can be expected of you when you are faced with a difficult situation in the future.
1st Answer Example
"I agree that being a healthcare provider has its stressful situations. One case that I will never forget occurred when I worked pediatrics. We had a four year old child that was admitted due to having seizures. After further testing, it was discovered that the child had a brain tumor. The tumor was very advanced and she lost her life because of it. That time was very emotional for everyone on the care team. Fortunately, we had a good team leader who gave us an opportunity to talk with her and one another about the overwhelming grief that we felt. I have found that talking through emotions is a great way to work through any unresolved grief."
2nd Answer Example
"I believe we all experience stress from time to time. Whether it is work related or something outside of work, if I begin to feel stressed or overwhelmed, I try to take a step back from whatever I am doing and refocus. For me, making lists of things that need to be accomplished during the day often helps me to not become too stressed. It keeps me on task and knowing what to expect next."
7. What do you know about Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease
How to Answer
Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is an inherited, genetic condition. It occurs when there are mutations in the genes that affect the nerves in your feet, legs, hands and arms. Researching common types of genetic abnormalities and being able to discuss them with the interviewer shows that you have a genuine interest in learning. Remember, you are not expected to know everything. Share the knowledge you do have and always show an attitude of interest in learning.
1st Answer Example
"Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease is a group of inherited disorders that cause nerve damage. The damage occurs mostly in the arms and legs. Charcot-Marie-Tooth is also called hereditary motor and sensory neuropathy."
2nd Answer Example
"Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease results in smaller, weaker muscles. Some patients experience loss of sensation and muscle contractions, and difficulty walking. Foot deformities such as hammertoes and high arches are also common."
8. Are you familiar with the physical characteristics of someone with Edwards Syndrome?
How to Answer
There are some characteristics that are seen in almost all patients with a genetic abnormality. Others are specific to a certain syndrome/disorder. If genetic testing was not performed before the birth of a child, or no reason to suspect a genetic abnormality, medical advice may not be sought until physical characteristics or mental delays begin to appear. Some of the characteristics found with Edwards Syndrome are as follows:
1st Answer Example
"Patients with Edwards syndrome may exhibit some symptoms including clenched hands, feet with a rounded bottom, mental deficiency, underdeveloped fingernails, and an unusually shaped chest."
2nd Answer Example
"I have not studied Edwards Syndrome in depth. However, if I remember correctly, a few of the significant signs are fingernails that are not well developed and feet that appear rounded on the bottom."
9. If you were the person responsible for hiring new employees, what qualities would you be looking for during the interview? Do you feel that you display those qualities yourself?
How to Answer
There is more than one reason for asking this question. First, the interviewer wants to know what qualities you think are important to perform this job. Second, and most importantly, your answer will tell the interviewer if you hold yourself to the same standard as you do others. If you want to see certain characteristics in your peers, you should be able to tell the interviewer with confidence that you possess those traits, as well. This question is one that interviewers often use to distinguish sincerity on the part of the candidate.
1st Answer Example
"I believe that honesty is important no matter what job title a person holds. I have found that being honest with people creates an atmosphere of mutual trust and respect. Those qualities, I feel, are essential when building rapport with patients and co-workers."
2nd Answer Example
"Having worked in human resources before, I know that each interviewer looks for different things. I always looked for someone who had a genuine interest in learning and in being a team player. Although many positions require independent work, at the end of the day, we all have the same goals and should be able to work well with one another. I believe I have those qualities and look forward to proving that if I am offered a position here at Company ABC."
10. How would you describe "chromosomal translocation" to someone who is not a medical professional?
How to Answer
Not everyone understands medical terminology and definitions. At times, information has to be explained in a way that someone without medical training can understand (parents, children, etc.) The interviewer wants to know that you are able to communicate effectively with people who may not have the same medical training as you.
1st Answer Example
"After working in the medical field for so long, I have to remind myself sometimes that not everyone understands our language. If I were to describe chromosomal translocation to a non-medical person, I would tell them, 'Inside of each of your cells are thread-like structures made up of parts called chromosomes. These tightly wound threads are what people mean when they refer to your DNA. It's a blueprint for cell growth that makes every cell in your body unique to you. It's like a puzzle. A chromosomal translocation is the term used to describe when two parts of the puzzle thread join in a way that doesn't fit.'"
2nd Answer Example
"If I had to explain chromosomal translocation to someone I would use the idea of a jigsaw puzzle. I would probably say, 'Imagine a jigsaw puzzle that snaps together to create a spiral staircase. That's how your DNA is structured. Each piece of your DNA strand belongs in a specific place, ensuring that your cells can split apart and multiply with your DNA imprinted inside each one. A chromosomal translocation is the word we use to describe when two parts of the puzzle join, but don't fit the puzzle. This results in an abnormality."
11. What can you tell me about Robertsonian translocation?
How to Answer
Many genetic abnormalities present problems for the patient with the abnormal genes. Some, however, like those with Robertsonian translocation may not experience issues, but may pass the gene on to their children. Share your knowledge with the interviewer.
1st Answer Example
"In most cases, there are no symptoms or visible signs of a Robertsonian translocation. Depending on where in the DNA the translocation occurs, it's very likely that a patient won't experience any side effects of the DNA chain being abnormal. Since chromosomes come in pairs, a patient can have a Robertsonian translocation that disrupts the DNA strand, but leaves the patient with all of the genetic information needed for r cells to multiply correctly. That's why many people with this condition go through life without ever knowing that they have it."
2nd Answer Example
"Many people with Robertsonian translocation go through life without ever knowing that they have it. However, even if a Robertsonian translocation doesn't present a problem within a patient's DNA, she may become a carrier of the translocation. This means there's a possibility of passing missing or extra DNA on to their children. Multiple miscarriages, difficulty getting pregnant, and pregnancies in which the fetus develops a trisomy or other genetic abnormality could be a sign that someone has this translocation."
12. Are you familiar with patient teaching regarding Sickle Cell Anemia?
How to Answer
Although many researchers pass information on to other healthcare providers who are responsible for patient education, it is still important to be able to explain a disorder. The interviewer wants to know what you would tell someone if you were the one providing patient education on Sickle Cell Disease. Share your knowledge.
1st Answer Example
"Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) is a group of inherited red blood cell disorders. Healthy red blood cells are round, and they move through small blood vessels to carry oxygen to all parts of the body. In someone who has SCD, the red blood cells become hard and sticky and look like a C-shaped farm tool called a 'sickle.' When they travel through small blood vessels, they get stuck and clog the blood flow. This can cause pain and other serious problems such infection."
2nd Answer Example
"Sickle cell anemia is a disease in which the body produces abnormally shaped red blood cells that have a crescent or sickle shape. These cells do not last as long as normal, round, red blood cells, which leads to anemia (low number of red blood cells). The sickle cells also get stuck in blood vessels, blocking blood flow."
13. At Company ABC we understand that changes occur in individual's lives and we try to assign projects accordingly. Do you anticipate any changes in your life within the next 12-24 months?
How to Answer
Knowing what goals you have and any changes you anticipate in your life will give the interviewer an opportunity to evaluate two things: 1. what positions are available that won't disrupt your plans and, 2. are you interested in having a long-term relationship within the company?
1st Answer Example
"I recently became engaged. Although we have not set a date yet, we have agreed to wait twelve months before the marriage. My fiance' just passed the Bar exam here and has been offered an opportunity to join an existing law firm. Presently, our plans are to stay where we are and build a career, not just work a job. Also, we do not plan on having children for at least two years after our marriage. We both feel that being able to become established in our careers and save for our future would be the responsible thing to do before starting a family."
2nd Answer Example
"I do not anticipate any significant changes in my life that would disrupt any work assignments. I have reached a point in my career where I can stay for the long-term. I understand Company ABC has both long-term and short-term projects and I would be willing to work on either and work my way up to a longer term assignment."
14. Are you familiar with the use of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation?
How to Answer
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation was first used as a treatment for some types of cancer but is now widely used as a therapy for various autoimmune diseases. If you have any knowledge/experience with this type of therapy, share it with the interviewer.
1st Answer Example
"I have never worked on any project that involved hematopoetic stem cell transplantation, but it is my understanding that it involves the IV infusion of stem cells to reestablish hematopoietic function in patients whose bone marrow or immune system is damaged or defective."
2nd Answer Example
"I did some studies on the blood's role in wellness and disease processes. Part of that research involved studying the use of hematopoietic stem cell transplants (HSCT). Although it can be used to treat cancer, HSCT is not considered to be an oncological procedure, but is still referred to as a hematological process."
15. Can you think of some possible drawbacks to using knockout mice?
How to Answer
A knockout mouse is a laboratory mouse in which researchers have inactivated, or 'knocked out,' an existing gene by replacing it or disrupting it with an artificial piece of DNA. The loss of gene activity often causes changes in a mouse's phenotype, which includes appearance, behavior and other observable physical and biochemical characteristics. The interviewer knows what knockout mice are used for, but can you think of a reason that their use may not be beneficial?
1st Answer Example
"I understand the importance of being able to test using laboratory mice. However, I can also see where there may be some drawbacks. For instance, about 15 percent of gene knockouts are developmentally lethal, which means that the genetically altered embryos cannot grow into adult mice. This lack of adult mice limits studies to embryonic development. In some instances, the gene may serve a different function in adults than in developing embryos."
2nd Answer Example
"Knocking out a gene may fail to produce an observable change in a mouse or may produce different characteristics from those observed in humans who experience the same inactivated gene. For example, mutations in the p53 gene are associated with more than half of human cancers and often lead to tumors in a particular set of tissues. However, when the p53 gene is knocked out in mice, the animals develop tumors in a different array of tissues. Although there may be some drawbacks, I still feel the benefits of using knockout mice for testing are still profound."
16. What do you know about Tay-Sachs disease?
How to Answer
When an interviewer asks a question like 'what do you know about.....' or 'are you familiar with.....,' he is not trying to trick you or make you feel put on the spot if you don't know the answer. Although a research company such as Company ABC may deal specifically with genome research, there may be several research projects going on at once. Knowing what areas you have the most knowledge in and what your strengths are will help the interviewer find a place that may be a better fit for your education and skill level.
1st Answer Example
"Tay-Sachs is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, which means both copies of the gene in each cell have mutations. The parents of an individual with an autosomal recessive condition each carry one copy of the mutated gene, but they typically do not show signs and symptoms of the condition."
2nd Answer Example
"Tay-Sachs disease is a rare inherited disorder that progressively destroys nerve cells (neurons) in the brain and spinal cord. Infants with Tay-Sachs typically appear normal until the age of 3 to 6 months, when their development slows and muscles used for movement weaken. Affected infants lose motor skills such as turning over, sitting, and crawling and develop an exaggerated startle reaction to loud noises. As the disease progresses, children with Tay-Sachs experience seizures, vision and hearing loss and intellectual disability."
17. What is the difference in monosomy and trisomy?
How to Answer
Understanding the difference in the simplest terms is an essential foundation for building upon knowledge. This is especially true where medical issues are being studied. Share the difference in these types of disorders with the interviewer.
1st Answer Example
"When an individual is missing one of the chromosomes from a pair, the condition is called monosomy. When an individual has more than two chromosomes instead of a pair, the condition is called trisomy."
2nd Answer Example
"Monosomy and trisomy are examples of numeric genetic disorders. In monosomy, a person is missing one of the chromosomes from a pair. In trisomy, he has more than two chromosomes instead of the normal pair."
18. Can you tell me how many chromosomes a human has and any fact you know about them?
How to Answer
Chromosomes carry genetic information in the form of genes. A human inherits a set number of chromosomes from his biological mother and from his biological father. Explain your knowledge of chromosomes to the interviewer.
1st Answer Example
"The typical number of chromosomes in a human cell is 46, 23 pairs. These 23 pairs hold an estimated total of 20,000 to 25,000 genes. One set of 23 chromosomes is inherited from the biological mother (from the egg), and the other set is inherited from the biological father (from the sperm)."
2nd Answer Example
"Chromosomes are inherited from biological parents. 23 pairs are inherited from each parent . The first 22 pairs are called autosomes. The 23rd pair is called the sex chromosomes which determine an individual's sex. Females have two X chromosomes (XX), and males have an X and a Y chromosome (XY)."
19. What do you know abouthe Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes?
How to Answer
The Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are a group of connective tissue disorders that can be inherited and are varied both in how they affect the body and in their genetic causes. Share any knowledge or experience you have with the disorders with the interviewer.
1st Answer Example
"Ehlers-Danlos syndromes are connective tissue disorders. Their genetic causes and the ways they affect the body vary. They are generally characterized by joint hypermobility, skin hyperextensibility, and tissue fragility."
2nd Answer Example
"While I don't have a lot of in depth experience studying Ehlers-Danlos syndromes, I do know some of the symptoms. For instance, affected individuals may have loose/unstable joints which are prone to frequent dislocations and/or subluxations, joint pain; hyperextensible joints, and early onset of osteoarthritis. They may also experience fragile skin that tears or bruises easily,severe scarring, slow and poor wound healing."
20. Do you know the differences in Type 1 and Type 2 Myotonic Dystrophy?
How to Answer
Myotonic dystrophy is part of a group of inherited disorders called muscular dystrophies. It is the most common form of muscular dystrophy that begins in adulthood. While their symptoms may overlap, Types 1 and 2 of myotonic dystrophy do have some distinct characteristics.
1st Answer Example
"Individuals with myotonic dystrophy experience muscle wasting/weakness. Type 1 particularly affects the lower legs, hands, neck, and face. Muscle weakness in type 2 primarily involves the muscles of the neck, shoulders, elbows, and hips."
2nd Answer Example
"Myotonic dystrophy type 1 is caused by mutations in the DMPK gene, while type 2 results from mutations in the CNBP gene. Type 1 patients usually show weakness in their face, neck, hands and/or legs. Type 2 patients experience weakness of the shoulders, elbows, hips, and neck."
21. Company ABC has researchers from various backgrounds and education levels. What are your thoughts regarding diversity in the workplace?
How to Answer
Some people are intimidated when faced with learning new cultures and beliefs, but in the healthcare industry, it is crucial to provide 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 with your response.
1st Answer Example
"The largest diverse group I worked with was probably when I did my clinical rotation at University Medical Center. I was afforded the opportunity to meet people from different cultures, religions, and professional backgrounds. It gave me an eye-opening experience of how many wonderful people there are!"
2nd Answer Example
"I think diversity in the healthcare industry is essential. I believe learning about and showing an appreciation for people from different walks of life only makes us stronger as we build upon the common bond of caring for others."
22. What makes you think you will be successful at Company ABC?
How to Answer
Rather than just sharing how you have gone above and beyond expectations in the past, focus on how your qualities will help you to meet and exceed expectations with Company ABC. Discuss the reasons why will you be great at this job. Talk about your qualifications and skills that will help you to do this job well. If you can, match your strengths to the requirements outlined in the job description.
1st Answer Example
"I know I will be successful in this role because I have been working in this industry for five years with great training and mentorship. I have a solid understanding of X, Y, and Z (skills listed in the job description). Also, I have all of my updated certifications as outlined in your job description. I am well-prepared for this next step in my career."
2nd Answer Example
"I believe my success with Company ABC will come from having all of the hard skills that you are looking for, whether learned in school or gained through work experience. I know all the key players in this region and stay informed of best practices."
23. Have you ever been involved with securing funds for medical research?
How to Answer
Most of the funding of medical research by private voluntary health organizations comes from individuals, but some comes from grants to those organizations (and so might be counted as foundation or government funding as well as spending by the private voluntary health organization). If you have been involved in helping to write grant applications or soliciting private organizations to become a part of research funding, this could be considered an asset. Share any experience you may have.
1st Answer Example
"I used to work for a company that operated mostly from money received from federal grants. When I worked there, I was an under-study to the head grant-writer. I have hoped to find placement with a company where I can do research but also offer my services in securing funding to further our research efforts."
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I have assisted with attempts to secure private funding for breast cancer research. I have found that the more specifically focused a research project is, the more easily private funding is secured."
24. What do you know about cystic fibrosis?
How to Answer
Until late in the 20th century, few people with cystic fibrosis lived beyond childhood. Improvements in medical care have increased life expectancy by decades. Share any knowledge you have of this disorder with the interviewer.
1st Answer Example
"Cystic fibrosis is an uncommon genetic disorder. It primarily affects the respiratory and digestive systems. Symptoms often include chronic cough, lung infections, and shortness of breath. Children with cystic fibrosis may also have trouble gaining weight and growing."
2nd Answer Example
"Cystic fibrosis is a rare disease. The most affected group is Caucasians of northern European ancestry. Since 2010, it has been mandatory for all doctors in the United States to screen newborns for cystic fibrosis. The test involves collecting a blood sample from a heel prick. A positive test can be followed up with a "sweat test" to measure the amount of salt in the sweat, which can help secure the diagnosis of cystic fibrosis."
25. Do you know of a genetic disorder that primarily affects male individuals?
How to Answer
Females have two X chromosomes and males only have one. This fact, along with the occurrence of what geneticists call mosaicism, may explain why women are less susceptible than men to certain genetic diseases. While some women may have a mostly male diagnosed disorder, there are some that are primarily diagnosed in males. Share any information you have.
1st Answer Example
"One predominately male diagnosed genetic disorder I can think of is Duchenne muscular dystrophy. It occurs primarily in males, though in rare cases may affect females. It is a progressive form of muscular dystrophy that causes weakness and loss of skeletal and heart muscles."
2nd Answer Example
"Mucopolysaccharidosis type II (MPS II), also known as Hunter syndrome, is a condition that affects many different parts of the body and occurs almost exclusively in males. It is a progressively debilitating disorder. The rate of progression varies among affected individuals."
26. What can you tell me about the three types of genetic disorders?
How to Answer
Understanding the differences in types of disorders is important in classifying abnormalities and seeking treatment. If you understand the differences in genetic disorder types, share it with the interviewer. Also, remember, not everyone who applies to work in research has the same amount of experience. The interviewer knows this. Share what you know and always show an interest to learn more.
Answer Example
"While I am just beginning to learn genetic research, I know that there are different types of genetic disorders. There are single-gene disorders, where a mutation affects one gene.
Chromosomal disorders, where chromosomes or parts of chromosomes are missing or changed, and Complex disorders, where there are mutations in two or more genes."
27. Many people have voiced different opinions regarding embryonic stem cell transplants. What is your understanding of embryonic stem cell transplants and do you have thoughts about why some people are opposed to this?
How to Answer
There are various reasons that people voice opposition to stem cell research. Even if you have never worked with embryonic stem cell research, you can share your thoughts about why some people may be opposed.
1st Answer Example
"I believe that the majority of people who oppose embryonic stem cell research/transplants do so because they don't have a clear understanding of what type of cells are used and the benefits that the research can accomplish. Embryonic stem cells are derived from the inner cells of human blastocysts, which occur 5-10 days after fertilization, but before implantation into the uterus. I honestly believe if those in opposition were educated to understand that embryonic stem cells are not taken from a living fetus they would be more supportive."
2nd Answer Example
"I believe there are many reasons that people oppose stem cell research. When the word 'embryonic' is used, the majority of the population relates this to an unborn child. If people can understand that a pregnancy has not been achieved at the time these cells are harvested and can know that cloning for reproductive purposes in human beings is not legal, they would be more open to the idea of this type of research."
28. What makes Early Onset Familial Alzheimer's disease different from a "normal" diagnosis of Alzheimer's ?
How to Answer
Alzheimer disease (AD) is characterized by adult-onset progressive dementia associated with cerebral cortical atrophy, beta-amyloid plaque formation, and intraneuronal neurofibrillary tangles. AD typically begins with subtle memory failure that becomes more severe and is eventually incapacitating. While Early Onset Familial Alzheimer's displays the same characteristics, there are a few things that contribute to this diagnosis.
1st Answer Example
"Familial Alzheimer's Disease (FAD) characterizes families that have more than one member with AD and usually implies multiple affected persons in more than one generation. Early-onset FAD (EOFAD) refers to families in which onset is consistently before age of 65 years and often before age 55 years."
2nd Answer Example
Early Onset Familial Alzheimer's Disease (EOFAD) is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. Most individuals with EOFAD had an affected parent. Each child of an individual with EOFAD has a 50% chance of inheriting the pathogenic variant and developing EOFAD. Prenatal testing for pregnancies at increased risk for is possible if the pathogenic variant in the family is known. Prenatal testing for adult-onset disorders, however, is uncommon."
29. Do you know what some of the characteristic signs of Marfan Syndrome are?
How to Answer
Marfan syndrome is a genetic disease of connective tissues. It is caused by a defect, or mutation, in the gene that determines the structure of fibrillin-1, a protein that is an important part of connective tissue. The severity of Marfan syndrome varies from one individual to another and it typically progresses over time. Share some of the common characteristics of the syndrome.
1st Answer Example
"Marfan syndrome can cause dislocation of the lens of the eye and detachment of the retina, resulting in vision loss in patients with the condition. The syndrome affects the skeleton, eyes, heart and blood vessels, nervous system, skin, and respiratory system."
2nd Answer Example
"A tall, slender build is characteristic of Marfan syndrome. Mitral valve prolapse is also common in patients with the syndrome. Additionally, abnormal aortic dilationcan be a serious manifestation of Marfan syndrome."
30. Can you recall a time that you may have had a disagreement with a boss or co-worker, and if so, how was it resolved?
How to Answer
Any time you work with someone else, there is a chance of having a disagreement about 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 in this question is whether or not you are willing to compromise and work through difficult situations with your co-workers. 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 OK, but do not embellish it to 'be the hero.'
1st Answer Example
"I believe if we think about it, each of us could remember at least one disagreement with a friend or co-worker. Although I consider myself to be pretty easy-going, I am also very passionate about my patients and the care that they receive. I have been aware of disagreements between other co-workers, but really like to think of myself as more of a peacekeeper. I feel like professional people should be able to discuss things logically and come to an agreement that is satisfactory for everyone involved."
2nd Answer Example
"I am sure there have been times when I have had a difference of opinion with a co-worker or boss. However, I don't recall any time that there has been an incidence that could not be amicably resolved. I have found that in environments where the work is critical, such as the medical field, it can be easy for peers to get stressed. I have simply tried to remember to treat others the way I want to be treated and understand that just because someone is having a bad day it doesn't have to affect me negatively."