Biological Scientist Mock Interview
Practice 25 Biological Scientist interview questions covering research methodology, experimental design, and data analysis.
Question 14 of 25
What is the most challenging part of supervising biological technicians and junior scientists?
Entry Level
Experienced
How to Answer
Example Answer
Community Answers
Rachelle Enns is an interview coach and job search expert. She works with candidates to perform their best in employment, medical, and post-secondary admission interviews.
"I have not been in a leadership position as of yet; however, I have had some great leaders as examples in my past. My most recent supervisor was excellent at keeping the peace in a high-stakes environment. He knew everyone's motivators and worked with those when he wanted better performance."
Rachelle Enns is an interview coach and job search expert. She works with candidates to perform their best in employment, medical, and post-secondary admission interviews.
"I love being a leader and the challenges that come with it. I would say that the most challenging aspect of leading other scientists is to get past everyone's ego. I am not negatively mentioning this - it's just a simple fact the when you have a room full of highly educated people, and Ph.D.'s, ego's can get in the way. I overcome this by showing up with a humble attitude and being a practical example to my team."
Heather Douglass has over 20 years of experience as a Career Coach, Recruiter, and HR Specialist. Much of her experience is as a Technical Recruiter in the healthcare industry.
As a biological scientist in a leadership position, you may find that you have difficulties with your employees. A few challenges you may face are balancing being the boss and being a friend, interpersonal conflict on a team or having employees with bad attitudes. Show the interviewer that you are capable of handling challenging leadership situations. If you have not been in a leadership role, talk about an example you have had in the past from a great supervisor. State that you would like to emulate that person's leadership style.
Heather Douglass has over 20 years of experience as a Career Coach, Recruiter, and HR Specialist. Much of her experience is as a Technical Recruiter in the healthcare industry.
"The most challenging thing about supervising technicians and other junior scientists is figuring out what style of communication works for each person. Also, finding out everyone's motivators can be a challenge at first."
Write Your Answer
0 - Character Count
Anonymous Answer
"The most challenging thing about supervising technicians and other junior scientists is figuring out what style of communication works for each person. On a personal note, I would like to go by personality level if it is anyway possible and try to motivate them.
Also, finding out everyone's motivators can be a challenge at first."
Stephanie's Feedback
You sound like a great supervisor! Understanding communication styles and the key to motivating others is such a critical aspect of being a people manager. My only suggestion for improving this response is adding a closing sentence at the end so that you end on a positive note, rather than a challenge. For example, "I really take the time to get to know my team, their communication styles, and motivations, and I find that leads to great outcomes and positive working relationships."
Unlock All 25 Biological Scientist Questions
Unlock expert responses to research-focused questions that lab directors and principal investigators ask.
Get StartedJump to Question