30 Biochemists Interview Questions & Answers
Behavioral
1. When did you realize you wanted to become a biochemist?
What You Need to Know
The interviewer wants to know why you chose this profession. Your answer should ensure them that you have a long-term passion for biochemistry. Before your interview, write down the aspects of science and biochemistry excite you the most. Think back to when you conducted your first experiment in a science class, and consider past role models or professors that inspired you in some way.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to learn about your background in this field. Describe your genuine excitement for the fundamental components of the industry, the in-depth laboratory-based research, or applying your knowledge to everyday issues. Your answer will demonstrate that you are serious about biochemistry and this employment opportunity.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"I love working in biochemistry because it's very hands-on. Students and professionals of biology and chemistry learn through experimentation in labs, which engages critical thinking and relates to current real-world applications. While my college friends were spending their days reading books in the library, I was planning out my experiments, testing in the lab, and reporting my findings as a part of the regular curriculum. I felt like so much of my education directly translated to the work environment."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Behavioral
2. How would you describe your work style?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Your interviewer wants to know what skills you have and how you work to determine if you're a good fit for the role and the organization. While this open-ended question might seem vague, it allows you to showcase yourself in a positive light. This question also requires you to know your strengths and weaknesses and how to adapt to changing circumstances.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Explain how your work style is a good fit for the company. When answering this question, keep the job description in mind. Research the company culture ahead of time and read over the job description before interviewing; try to align your answer with their requirements.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"My work style is extremely flexible. Working on so many different experiments in my past role required me to be adaptive. I focus on one project at a time, working as quickly and efficiently as possible to achieve the best results. All of my projects require collaboration with my lab teammates, so I use the team environment to check for errors. I'm a perfectionist and a driven worker, and my communication skills allow me to bring out the best in any team on any project."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Behavioral
3. How do you go about solving a difficult problem?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Employers will often ask problem-solving questions to gauge the candidate's ability to gather data, analyze a problem, weigh pros and cons, and reach a logical decision. This type of interview question focuses on specific instances the candidate analyzed a situation or had to solve a problem. The interviewer expects you to include the steps you took to gather and understand the necessary information before solving the problem.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
How to Answer
When preparing for your interview, consider a few examples of times you successfully solved a problem. Always use real examples. Focus on your actions and emphasize the positive outcome. Focus on your problem-solving and communication skills and relate them to the job description. Describe the problem, the steps you took to solve the problem, and the outcome or what you learned.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"When I'm faced with a challenging problem, I typically begin by researching how similar problems have been solved by other professionals in related industries. From that research, I'm able to determine the solution that will work best for me and the organization. Then, I decide what actions need to be taken to solve the problem start the process while communicating with my managers and co-workers."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"When faced with a difficult issue, I typically create a list of pros and cons. I consider whether the cons will hinder me from achieving my desired outcome or cause an unnecessary burden somewhere else. If so, then the approach probably won't be effective. If not, then I will consider whether or not the pros outweigh the cons. If the pros outweigh the cons, then it is worth pursuing and dealing with any negative effects as they come."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Behavioral
4. Why are you interested in working as a Biochemist for our company?
How to Answer
Demonstrate that you've researched the company and are truly excited about specific opportunities with the company. Show enthusiasm for the position and project work. A candidate's ability to fit within the company culture is an important hiring factor for many employers. Do your homework on the company's culture and identify what you find most appealing about it. For instance, if the firm encourages entrepreneurial thinking, and that's important to you, include that in your response.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The company wants to hire someone who believes strongly in the company's mission and wants to make a positive impact on the organization and its clients. They are interested in hiring candidates who are a strong fit for the position and the company culture.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"I see this opportunity as a way to contribute to an exciting and forward-thinking/fast-moving company. I feel I can do so by bringing my diverse experience and education in chemistry and unique skill set to your exciting international projects."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Behavioral
5. What five words/phrases describe you as a Biochemist?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The hiring manager asks this question because they want to know more about your personality and how you see yourself. This list can reveal a lot about who you are and how you might fit into their culture and workplace. Your answer also gives the manager an indication of your self-perception, which is a good indicator of the type of employee you will be.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Describing your character can be challenging, especially when it comes to reducing that description to a few words. If you can't think of an answer, ask a friend or co-worker how they would describe you. Don't forget about your resume and cover letter; you likely used words to describe yourself in both documents. Review both, and make sure the answers you provide in the interview are in line with what's in your resume and cover letter.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"Discipline, determination, hard-working, honest, and willingness to learn "
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Behavioral
6. This career involves a lot of trial and error. Do you get discouraged easily?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers ask this kind of question to understand how you perceive adversity and if you have the patience to handle challenges. How you handled a tough personal situation demonstrates your approach in professional situations as well. Employers want their team to see challenges as opportunities to learn and grow.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
How to Answer
Demonstrate your ability to be honest and vulnerable to create a strong rapport with the interviewer. Your answer should also acknowledge your character and creativity, attributes that are valuable in many fields. Describe a time you were challenged and discouraged were able to succeed through resiliency and perseverance. End on a positive note by describing what you learned and gained from the experience.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"I learned early in my studies that working as a biochemist takes a great deal of perseverance. Biochemists and biophysicists need to be thorough in their research and their approach to solving problems. Scientific research involves substantial trial and error, and I've learned that every success is a process and takes time."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Behavioral
7. What motivates you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This is one of the most common questions you're likely to get at a job interview. Your answer provides interviewers with insight into the "why" of your career, which is something typically lacking from resumes and cover letters. The interviewer wants to learn more about why you chose your field and what you're passionate about. If a hiring manager understands what drives you, they'll be able to determine whether you'll be happy and capable in the role you're interviewing for.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
How to Answer
Reflect on your past successes, consider why you went into this field, and prepare an answer that describes your motivations. Re-read the job description. Look for the soft skills that describe an ideal employee and the main responsibilities of the job.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"A fast-paced, deadline-centric work environment has always been my best motivator. In my last position as a lab manager, I had to handle over five ongoing projects at one time and oversee three other lab team members. I have a knack and love for planning and organization, so I develop and maintain a weekly task spreadsheet to keep track of my tasks and the delegated tasks to team members. I was always able to hit and exceed my success metrics thanks to my keen sense of deadlines and motivation to reach milestones."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Behavioral
8. How do you manage conflicts with colleagues in the lab?
How to Answer
Every office or lab environment has conflict, but this shouldn't hinder your ability to get the job done. Provide an example of a conflict and explain what you did to eliminate workplace tensions or maintain a level of professionalism despite disagreeing with a colleague. If this has not happened to you, and you are an entry-level professional, offer an example of a conflict you resolved at university or in a volunteer position. Make sure your answer is relevant to the question at hand and doesn't veer off-topic. Describe the situation, how you resolved it, and the outcome.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers ask this question to learn how well you handle challenging workplace situations. They want to gain a better understanding of your personality, problem-solving skills, and professionalism in the workplace.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"I do my best to understand where each person is coming from and create a space where other lab members feel safe voicing their concerns and perspectives. I realize that it can be challenging to reconcile multiple perspectives. In a past position, our lab team had to test (XYZ) for a client, and I was assigned to oversee the project and delegate tasks to each team member. One of the team members was upset that I was chosen to lead the project over them and refused to complete their tasks. I asked to meet with them privately to learn why they were upset. I listened to their side and told them I understood where they were coming from. I explained that if they work hard with our team to submit a strong project and meaningful results, our supervisor may notice and consider them for other promotions or responsibilities in the future. They agreed and completed their tasks, which led to a 20% customer conversion rate and high praise from our supervisor."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Behavioral
9. Tell me about a time you went above and beyond in a past position or in school.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers ask this question to test your work ethic, attitude, and other important traits. They want to make sure you're willing to go beyond your expected job duties. They also want to see how you perform under pressure and if you can stay calm during difficult situations.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
How to Answer
Prepare for this question by thinking about unexpected situations you have dealt with in a past role or school. Share a work-related or college example of a time you went above and beyond and describe what you were able to accomplish. Think about the times you went out of your way to fulfill a special request for a customer, client, teammate, etc., or anything else you did beyond your typical job duties to meet a pressing deadline or give your company's customers or clients a great experience.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"I enjoy going above and beyond what is expected of me. It's important to make a good impression and make the clients feel special. I regularly check in with our clients to give them updates, even if there are no issues with the project. This is not required by my company or supervisor, but I think going above and beyond our clients' expectations by staying in touch with them builds lasting relationships that keep the clients loyal to our business."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Behavioral
10. Tell me about a time you learned something new in a position
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers ask this question to assess your ability to grow as a professional. The interviewer may also want to determine how successful you can be as a team member long-term.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
How to Answer
Elaborate on your work experience to convey that you're a qualified candidate for the job. Research the company to learn how you can show your compatibility with the role. Also, consider using the question to exemplify your eagerness to undergo training programs and stay aware of activities in your industry.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"I received a promotion to lab manager and had to lead a team of peers. My biggest learning experience was strengthening my communication skills so I could stay informed about the status of our complex research projects. I took a seminar on how to master active listening to hear and understand questions and ideas from members of my team, and I specified what my expectations were, so everyone operated from the same plan. My initiative allowed us to meet client deadlines and increase client satisfaction because the quality of our products impressed them."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Behavioral
11. If I were to contact your most recent supervisor, what area of your work would he/she tell me you could most improve upon?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
When an interviewer asks this question, they aren't trying to make you feel uncomfortable, and they aren't looking to see how you assess your performance. Instead, they want to hear how you discuss your past supervisors and their demands. This allows them to get a better understanding of your outlook and attitude as an employee and your methods for discussing sensitive topics.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
How to Answer
Choose an area that fits into the overall picture for the job. Focus on something that you recently learned, so you can show how you grow into tasks and what you do to improve as you acclimate. Be positive, but not overly confident.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"I think my boss would probably say I take on a bit more than I should, and I tend to get overwhelmed at times. We've discussed this, and I have developed a stronger sense of when to delegate, but I still do have ups and downs in my productivity because I occasionally over-schedule my time."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Behavioral
12. How well did your college experience prepare you for this job?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewers are looking for real-world applications of your college experience. They want to know more about how your college experiences and classes prepared you for this job. Explain how your college experience, field trips, and lab experiments trained you for employment. Make a connection to the specific role or the responsibilities required by the role you're interviewing for.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Focus on how your education relates to the specific role by reviewing the job description ahead of time. Once you've identified what the employer is looking for, reflect on your full college experience, including class projects, interactions with professors, challenging semesters, volunteer work, internships, independent studies, and other activities.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"I feel that I was well prepared for real-life situations and future jobs because of my rigorous college experience. Challenging STEM courses in high school taught me exceptional critical-thinking skills and how to solve complex problems. My college experience taught me that the answers will not always be in front of me and that high-quality results require hard work. Many of my internships also allowed me to experience situations first-hand and taught me how to work with a team."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Career Goals
13. What quality or attribute do you feel will most contribute to your career success?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Hiring managers ask this question to better understand your approach to work and life. The closer a match you are to the ideal candidate for the position, the better your chances of getting a job offer. If you can show the company you have the credentials they are seeking, the hiring decision is more likely to go in your favor.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
How to Answer
When preparing an answer to this question, focus on the company you are interviewing with. Consider the skills or traits that can be beneficial to the organization. Research companies beforehand to find out what type of employees they tend to hire and the company vision and tailor your answer to fit the company you are applying to. In your answer, list attributes and qualities that are in alignment with company values.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"I feel that my strongest attribute is my ability to work well under pressure. Many people have difficulty being productive under stress, but I have learned how to cope with the stress and remain productive. I firmly believe that stressful situations and tight deadlines have provided me with opportunities to grow both personally and professionally."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Career Goals
14. What steps have you taken in the past five years to further your professional development?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Hiring managers ask this question to learn more about your personality, skills, and work experience. They also want to get to know you better as a professional and assess your willingness to grow and improve. Companies must continue to adapt to stay profitable. This means that, as the company changes, its workforce needs to adapt too. When making hiring decisions, employers look for candidates who are proactive in their professional self-development and can adapt to changing demands. Employers specifically look for candidates who not only can successfully perform the job today but will eventually take on greater responsibilities and add more value to the company.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
How to Answer
Prepare examples ahead of time, and be ready to discuss how you're developing yourself and how this helps you achieve your career goals. Back up your statements with examples that show you're a proactive individual. Your answer gives the interviewer insight into your professional behavioral patterns and willingness to invest in the development of your skillset throughout your career.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
'The bio-chemistry industry is constantly changing, and it's essential that I continue to gain knowledge through seminars and conferences. For example, this year, I attended the XX event and several other smaller events regarding bio-medical chemistry, in which I'm specializing at the moment. Through these conferences, I've made some great connections in the industry, which increased the value of my professional network. Besides gaining networking opportunities, I always come back with new ideas and knowledge that I can apply in my position.'
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Compatibility
15. Describe the characteristics of a successful manager.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to know if you have the qualities needed to be successful as an employee and leader in the company, specifically, what your experiences have been working within a team and how you react to your supervisors. They are also interested in the specific characteristics you value most and if you'll be a fit as an employee within their organization.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
How to Answer
Stay positive when discussing previous managers. Do not trash talk past managers or colleagues. Instead, focus on your work style. Discuss how a previous supervisor helped you reach company or personal goals. If you stay upbeat and focused, you will stand out from other candidates. Before your interview, take some time to think of an example of a time your manager brought out the best in you. Reflect on the problem that was presented and how you and your supervisor worked together to create a viable solution.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"In my opinion, a strong leader has a clear vision and understanding of what it takes to get the job done. In my previous job, my lab supervisor helped the company and team achieve goals by focusing on these two important factors. This manager consistently communicated the big idea to team members. She was also excellent at assigning responsibility to specific individuals without micro-managing them. When we worked on a project, she assigned tasks and trusted our ability to perform and complete these tasks on time. I found myself working hard to meet the company objectives, yet I also had a clear understanding of my specific contribution to the ultimate goal."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Compatibility
16. How would your previous colleagues and teammates describe you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question is a good way for interviewers to assess your soft skills to determine how well you'd fit into their group dynamic and the company culture. Your response can help the interviewer get a sense of your self-perception. Once they reach out to your references, they'll compare what they say with your self-assessment.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
How to Answer
To answer this interview question effectively, you should know what your colleagues believe you bring to the table. A strong answer to this question will not only show off a positive personality trait but will also explain to the interviewer how this personality trait will allow you to excel in the position to which you are applying.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"My colleagues would say that I am optimistic, as I see setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow. There is a creative solution to any problem, and I enjoy the challenge of discovering it. In one instance, my colleagues from my last job were upset about budget cuts to our department. I devised a few creative ways to maintain some of our resources on a small budget. My ideas were discussed by upper management and were eventually implemented."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Competency
17. Are you a natural problem solver?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This type of question is commonly asked during interviews since problem-solving skills are essential in most jobs. There are challenges in every workplace, and when hiring new personnel, hiring managers look for candidates who are equipped to deal with those challenges. Interviewers want you to explain a situation, how you approached it, and how you solved it. Furthermore, the interviewer is interested in what you learned from that experience.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Before your interview, thoroughly research the position and company. Read the job description carefully to find specific skills that a candidate needs to possess to successfully perform the job. These skills might include adaptability, communication, and problem-solving. Create a list of past work experiences that required these skills. Highlight successful situations in which you demonstrated these skills. Deliver a concise and to-the-point answer.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"Yes, I believe I am a natural problem solver, and I typically follow a process to solve problems. When I'm faced with a problem, I research similar problems and determine how they have been solved by other bio-chemists. From that research, I'm able to decide which approach works best for me, the team, and the organization. Then, I decide what actions need to be taken to solve the problem, and I put the process into motion while communicating with my managers and co-workers."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Competency
18. How are your analytical skills?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Employers will often ask problem-solving questions to gauge a candidate's ability to gather data, analyze a problem, and reach a logical decision. They want employees with the ability to investigate a problem and find the ideal solution in a timely, efficient manner.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
What You Need to Know
Analytical skills are the ability to collect and analyze information, problem-solve, and make decisions. Employees who possess these skills can solve a company's problems and improve their overall productivity and success. There are many types of analytical skills, including communication, creativity, critical thinking, data analysis, and research. Provide specific examples of your analytical skills in your job interview.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"I think one of my strengths is my attention to detail. I'm able to notice all of the specific aspects and features of a project, pick up on subtle cues, and notice patterns to gather the necessary data to think analytically."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Competency
19. Would you be comfortable overseeing a complex project?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
There are a few reasons why interviewers ask this question. They want to know your approach to dealing with challenges and how your skills would help you successfully lead a project. They also want to know what your work ethic is like and how you handle stress.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
How to Answer
First, you should prepare an answer in advance. It's hard to give a well-thought-out answer if you don't prepare before your interview. Write a list of all the important projects you've worked on in your career. Then, note what the goal was of each project and what part you played in bringing each project across the finish line. Lastly, note the outcomes of all the projects. Make sure you pick a project that was successful (unless you want to talk about an unsuccessful project that you turned around and made a success).
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"I worked on several complex projects early in my career. When starting a project like this, I make sure that I understand the goals and then create a plan with various milestones. I also deal with the most challenging parts of the projects early on. That way, if there are any significant issues, I'll still have a fair amount of time to complete the project before the deadline. I also break down large tasks into smaller tasks, so it's easier to understand and delegate if necessary. Detailed planning is important to ensure an important project goes smoothly. For example, last year I was in charge of . . . .(describe an example here)"
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Direct
20. Why are you the best biochemist for us?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to make sure you know what they are looking for in a job candidate and that you can do the job if hired. One of the goals of the interview is to determine whether you are a good fit for both the role and the organization.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
How to Answer
When answering this question, your objective is to sell yourself to the hiring manager and convince them that you are a unique and strong candidate. Explain how your personality makes you an ideal candidate. Take the time before the interview to carefully match your qualifications to those listed in the job posting. Be prepared to explain why you're a solid match for the job.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"I can find my niche within a group and support everyone's efforts. For example, my last job involved a lot of team projects. I recognized my teammates' skills and delegated tasks that fit each person's skills. I know this job involves a lot of teamwork and group projects, and I know this is a work style in which I excel."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Discovery
21. What area of biochemistry do you find most fascinating?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to learn about your background and your passion for biochemistry. There are many different paths that can lead to a career in science and the interviewer is looking to see if your interests match what they're looking for in a new hire.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
How to Answer
Respond to this question by highlighting your genuine excitement for some of the fundamental components of the industry, in-depth laboratory-based research, or applying your knowledge to everyday issues. Based on your thoughtful answer, the interviewer will discover that you are serious about the profession and this employment opportunity.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"I decided to become a Biochemist after taking several AP science courses in high school and advanced labs in college. I found Biochemistry to be the most interesting of all of the sciences because it combines chemistry, biology, and physiology, covering the basic needs of life and the important role in maintaining health and nutrition in people's lives."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Discovery
22. Describe two or three major trends in biochemistry today.
How to Answer
Employers can gauge your interest in or passion for biochemistry by asking about your understanding of trends and engagement with industry news and innovative research. Demonstrating your awareness of the latest trends will assure the employers that your knowledge will remain current. You can use this knowledge to solve problems at work or implement new processes and procedures. Your answer should include the specific steps you take to stay current. Mention a recent development in biochemistry that excites you and can contribute to the organization's work.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
By understanding the industry trends, you will better understand the immediate needs of the organization. Discuss the future of the field in general and the career you are discussing in particular. Be positive in your answer, but be careful of downplaying any potential problems.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am passionate about biochemistry, and I use my free time to learn about the latest development in our industry. In the past few years, I have been subscribing to the journal, 'CURRENT TRENDS IN BIOTECHNOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY.' This journal broadens its scope for researchers, scientists, and scholars by publishing the highest quality innovative paper of the latest research in biochemistry and biotechnology. Some of the recent trends I've been interested in include environmental biotechnology advancements, new findings in animal biotechnology, and recent discoveries in stem cell biology."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Discovery
23. What work do you look forward to accomplishing here?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers want to see if you can be self-sufficient during your initial onboarding and training period and that you can make significant contributions early on in your time on the job. They also want to know that you can offer skills that will contribute to the company's future success and add value to the organization and teams. Take this opportunity to show your interest in this company and the work they do.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
How to Answer
Focus on why you are the best fit for the job and show the hiring manager that you have goals that you have set for yourself. Focus on specific things you will do to contribute to the company right away. Research the company so the employer realizes how much you care about your potential role and how serious you are about getting the job.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"I'd like an opportunity to work on larger scale projects that have budgets that allow for innovative lab techniques and technologies. In my past job, I felt like the smaller projects we worked on limited us from exploring our creativity and learning new methods in the lab setting. I hope that my forward-thinking attitude and interest in exploring new methods add value to the organization and the teams I work with and help the organization stand out from their competitors."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Ethical
24. Talk about a time you had to make a difficult ethical decision in the workplace.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Employers ask ethical dilemma interview questions to assess your integrity and approach to evaluating and solving problems in the workplace. It allows employers to see what your values are as a professional and how those values align with the company.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
How to Answer
Think of a situation in which you solved a conflict, took action against unethical behavior, or had to rely on your problem-solving and ability to act under pressure. Describe your experience and highlight your communication skills, critical thinking, and decision-making skills. Avoid stating that you've never been faced with an ethical dilemma.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"Since I have experience working in the healthcare industry, I've worked with several rules, regulations, policies, and ethics that I'm required to adhere to, including safety and cleanliness regulations. In my last job, I was required to attend periodic training that reinforced the rules and regulations, provided updated information on the organization's policies, and gave me methods to stay compliant with all of them. I don't have a specific example, but if a violation occurred, it was immediately addressed by my supervisor to prevent it from recurring. These methods kept me compliant and provided a safe work and lab environment for both the people I interacted with and me."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Leadership
25. What do you do if there's a disagreement within your team?
What You Need to Know
In mid- to senior-level roles, a team leader's duties and responsibilities typically include setting team workloads, monitoring employee performance, motivating team members to perform their best, and communicating goals and deadlines. Team leaders have a responsibility to resolve conflicts and find solutions. They must ensure projects are completed by the deadline and at the quality level expected by customers.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Hiring managers look for strong leadership skills, excellent communication skills, conflict resolution skills, and approachability. Great candidates for a leadership role may also possess integrity, humility, and the ability to innovate and inspire others.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"Disagreements can happen, especially when people are independent and have strong opinions on how a task should be done. I would first ask the team members to take a step back. I would then lead a team discussion so that we can all understand each other's points of view. If appropriate, I would negotiate a compromise that would put the team in the best position for success. If there is a right way to handle the situation, I will explain why we're choosing one solution over the other."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Scenario
26. What is your ideal work/lab environment?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Employers want to know that your work preferences and personality align with their company and culture. Every company's workplace environment varies, so they need to understand that your needs and wants align with what they have to offer. If the ideal work environment you describe matches their organization, you will be a strong fit for their company culture. Employers want to avoid employee turnover, so finding a candidate who thrives in the environment they offer is key.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
What You Need to Know
Employers are looking for an answer to this question that overlaps with what they can offer as an organization. They also want an honest and confident response. To find a job you can succeed in, be honest about your ideal working environment.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"I enjoy working with other people around. I feel that by working in close proximity, we can inspire each other, collaborate better, and communicate effectively to optimize performance."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Scenario
27. When you have competing deadlines, how do you prioritize your work?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Employers often ask an interview question about competing priorities to make sure you'll be able to handle the most important tasks they assign and complete projects within their deadlines. Interviewers are looking for time management skills, communication skills, the ability to stay calm under stress, and problem-solving ability.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
What You Need to Know
One of the biggest challenges for team members and leaders is accurately prioritizing projects. When faced with conflicting priorities, you're forced to manage your time and rank those tasks in order of importance. Even if you have the best project management software, you're the one who enters information into the tool.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"I prioritize my work by creating an Excel spreadsheet of my projects and their deadlines so I can see everything at a glance. Then, I sort and adjust the spreadsheet to prioritize my work based on the importance of a project, how long it'll take, how urgent it is, and whether I'll need input from other team members to complete the work. I review this sheet each morning. I've found that by communicating with my team and manager throughout each project and tracking everything in Excel, I'm able to manage all of my tasks and hit each deadline, even if we hit some unexpected challenges or delays. Communication is key in all of this."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Situational
28. What was the most difficult challenge you encountered as a biochemist in a past role or college project?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question is a way for interviewers to understand how you handle problems and adversity. The interviewer is also interested in your level of self-motivation. They want to hire individuals who actively seek new challenges to develop their skills and gain knowledge and experience.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
How to Answer
Be honest in your response and focus on the challenges you've conquered. When answering this or any interview questions, your goal is to show the hiring manager that you're the best candidate for the position.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"Acquiring successful time management skills was the biggest challenge I faced as a student; it was an aspect of college life that I underestimated. Now that I'm in the workforce, I continue to use the skills I've gained, and I'm always looking for ways to improve as I grow as a professional."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Situational
29. Tell me about a time you made a mistake in the workplace and what steps you took to correct your error.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers ask this question to see how you handle challenging situations. This common interview question shows employers your potential weaknesses and how you overcome them. Admitting your mistakes shows integrity and indicates that you understand that you might have some failures throughout your career. The key to answering this interview question is showing employers that you learned from your mistake.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
How to Answer
Begin by explaining your mistake. Instead of attempting to pass the blame, take accountability for your actions. Choose a situation that you were able to fix or learned something from the mistake. Explain what you did to resolve your errors. Make it clear that you were actionable in this situation. The purpose of this interview question is to see how you handle mistakes, so emphasize that you are a problem solver.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"When I started in my last role, I was eager to make a good impression, and I ended up taking on more work than I could manage. I was constantly overwhelmed and stressed. My mentor made me realize that I needed to speak up and find team members to help out. I followed her advice and started communicating regularly with my supervisor, and she was able to reassign tasks and help me balance the workload."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Teamwork
30. Do you enjoy working in teams, and what role do you typically play?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Employers, regardless of industry, need workers who can work as part of a team. During interviews, the hiring manager will determine whether you can work effectively and collaboratively with others, and they are interested in learning what role you like to play in a team. Each team typically needs only one leader, along with followers/team members who have specific roles in the team.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
How to Answer
Respond by referencing a specific example from your past to show you work well in a team environment to achieve results. If you don't have much work history, use an example from school, a club, or a volunteer experience. Don't trash teamwork or collaboration. If you don't enjoy working in a team environment, perhaps you are interviewing for the wrong job.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022
Answer Example
"I would characterize myself as the responsible one on a team. I admit that I am neither a natural leader nor the most creative mind on the team. When it comes to meeting deadlines, stepping up, taking care of the work, and even staying overtime to finish projects on time, other team members can count on me. That's how I'd characterize my role in the team."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 19th, 2022