30 Chemist Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Chemist 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.
Analytical
1. How do you go about dealing with 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 the pros and cons, and reach a logical decision. This type of interview question focuses on specific instances when 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 28th, 2022
How to Answer
When preparing for your interview, consider a few examples of times you successfully solved a problem. Your answer should include what the problem was, the steps you took to solve the problem, and the outcome. Focus on the positive.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 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 a solution that will work best for me 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 28th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"When faced with a difficult issue, I create a list of pros and cons to help me make a decision. I start by considering 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, I consider if the pros outweigh the cons in terms of a positive outcome. 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 28th, 2022
Behavioral
2. How would you describe your work style?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In addition to learning about the skills you have that qualify you for the job, your interviewer wants to know about 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.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
How to Answer
In your response, strategically highlight how your work style is a good fit for the company. When answering this question, it is important to keep the job description in mind. Research the company culture and read over the job description before interviewing and align your answer with their requirements and expectations. Review the company's website, media kit (almost always available on their site), and social media presence to learn which qualities are most valued at the organization.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"My work style is extremely flexible. Working on so many different projects in my last role required me to be adaptive. In general, I try to work on one project at a time as quickly and efficiently as possible to achieve the best results. All of my projects require collaboration, so I use the team environment to check for errors. I am 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 28th, 2022
Behavioral
3. Do you work well on a team?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
You should expect this common interview question in your job interview. Many jobs require employees to work with one another regularly, which includes communicating, completing tasks, and planning projects or events. Interviewers want to know that you can communicate well with others and complete projects successfully with a team.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
How to Answer
Give specific examples of times you've worked well with others in the past. If you have never worked in a team environment, find an example of a time you worked with others in school, volunteer work, or another venue. Research the role and the company to learn what teamwork looks like at this particular organization.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"I prefer working with a team. Different team members contribute different perspectives, and the synergy between team members can produce creative and productive results. I enjoy encouraging the unique skill sets of my team members. For example, I recently worked on a large group research project in which two introverted members did not share their opinions with the group. I suggested breaking our larger group into smaller teams for brainstorming sessions. In these smaller teams, the quiet members became more vocal and shared some amazing ideas. These ideas became part of our overall strategy and helped us complete the project."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Behavioral
4. What is the hardest challenge that you have encountered as a chemist?
How to Answer
You should be ready with a meaningful professional story about a challenge you faced. Keep in mind that your answer should be specific. Try using the STAR method: S: Situation - Set the scene and context; T: Task - Describe what your challenge or responsibility was; A: Action - List all of the actions you took to address the challenge or responsibility; R: Result - Explain what the outcomes were and how they relate to the overall goal of the project or company. Prepare ahead of time for this question because you don't want to be surprised and try to make up something during the interview.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
When hiring managers ask this interview question, they want to know what struggles you've faced in your previous jobs or school and how you overcame them. They also want to assess your problem-solving skills, which gives them an idea of how you'd face similar challenges and find solutions in the job you're interviewing for.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"I love to be challenged, and I prefer working in high-pressure situations. In one of my previous jobs, a few of our lab managers were let go for not meeting deadlines. I was given a promotion to a management position and asked to get up to speed on a complex project. I took on the challenge and worked with the less-experienced lab assistants and chemists learning a new software program, reading lab notes, and spending time in the lab on my off-hours. By being the student, I gained respect from the other team members, and they felt like they were appreciated as an integral part of the team. It was a difficult position to be in, but it forced me to step up and lead. Within a few weeks, we had met our deadlines and surpassed the expectations of our client."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Behavioral
5. How do you stay motivated in your work?
How to Answer
This interview question is broad and easy to misinterpret. It can be difficult to answer if you haven't thought about it in advance. A strong answer to this question should be succinct and illustrate details. Back up your answer with examples from your studies, work experience, or extracurricular activities. Your answer should also relate to the skills and aptitudes required for the job you're interviewing for.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
In asking this question, interviewers hope to figure out what gets you excited about the work and what drives you to succeed. They also want to determine whether your motivators are a fit for the job and the company's culture overall.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"I'm driven by results. I like to have a clear goal or deadline to meet and enough time to figure out a strong strategy to accomplish it. At my last job, our yearly goals were aggressive, but I worked with my manager and the rest of my team to figure out a month-to-month strategy to meet the year-end numbers."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Behavioral
6. Share with us your greatest achievement.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Hiring managers love to ask questions about your greatest professional achievement or accomplishment, and they expect a detailed example or story. They want to know what sets you apart from other qualified candidates to get a better sense of what you've done and what you value. They also want to hear you speak passionately and proudly of your achievements.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
How to Answer
Before the interview, write a list of your strengths, interests, and accomplishments, both personal and professional. Choose an example that is as recent as possible and somewhat relevant to the job or your career. Be specific, and talk about the results. Describe exactly what you achieved and why you feel it was a significant accomplishment. Explain how it helped you, your team, or your employer at the time. If you just graduated and your accomplishment was in an internship or a university class, explain what you learned, what challenges you overcame, and how this helped you get where you are today. Avoid giving a long-winded answer, as this will indicate to your interviewer that you are unprepared. Finally, use the STAR approach - Situation, Task, Action, Result.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"My greatest accomplishment occurred in my previous position as the lead Chemist in a lab setting. I noticed my team members often had difficulty locating specific files and reports, which reduced productivity, particularly during busy periods. I took the initiative to implement a team filing system. I had my assistant upload and scan every relevant research document and report, which we then saved to shared folders on our computer system. At the end of the month, our timesheets indicated that the time spent looking for files had been reduced by several hours."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"My greatest professional achievement was completing my Bachelor's degree in four years with a 3.8 GPA. I had no financial support from my family and had to work a full-time job while pursuing my Chemistry degree. This taught me to prioritize my time, build great habits, and stay focused on my goals. I'm proud of this accomplishment, and I feel that what I learned is going to give me a big advantage in my career."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Behavioral
7. Describe any new implementations you made at your last job.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to know if you think independently and can contribute to improving the quality, ideation, and efficiency of project work. They are mostly concerned with how their company will benefit from your ideas. They want to know that your ideas will lead to genuine improvement and be implemented with positive results.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
How to Answer
When answering this question, emphasize the results of a past idea and explain how you implemented it. The idea itself does not need to be profound, but you should mention how it improved the business or school project. Incorporate the STAR method into every behavioral interview question you answer; discuss the specific situation, task, action, and result of your example.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"At my last company, the leadership team was constantly making changes to improve the quality of the services we provided, but it didn't seem like the changes lasted very long. There was little or no follow-up, and employees would revert to the old way of doing things. I suggested implementing a change binder to keep track of these plans, which would make it easy to determine which ones worked and which didn't. This ensured that the changes were implemented each week. By using this binder, the results became more clear, and the more successful adjustments eventually became standard company policy that all employees followed."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Behavioral
8. Describe a past ethical issue that you had to deal with at work. Who did you consult?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers will ask ethical dilemma interview questions to assess your integrity and approach to evaluating and solving problems in the workplace. This type of question also 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 28th, 2022
How to Answer
Your answer should demonstrate your ethics and values as an employee; it's best to avoid talking about a personal life experience. Without blaming others or naming anyone, describe a specific situation and how you dealt with it. You may feel you've never encountered a challenging ethical dilemma in the workplace, and it can be tricky to determine how to best answer this question. However, if you consider this question in advance, you should be able to identify a situation you've encountered that could have different points of view on how to best resolve an issue.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"As a chemist, I am faced with ethical considerations all the time. When I was working in a lab setting in my past position, I noticed that a fellow chemist took all of the credit for our team's work in the lab. I took some time to consider the best way to approach him and spoke to a co-worker I trusted about the situation. I felt it was important to take a positive approach and remain calm. I asked him if there was a particular reason for not acknowledging my contribution to the project. I also pointed out that I had noticed that when he talked about the project, he said 'I' instead of 'we.' I didn't want to blame him, but I wanted to show him that I noticed and didn't think it was right. He listened and then apologized, saying that he was glad that I pointed this out to him. He had been so excited about the results of our lab work that he hadn't thought about recognizing the team and acknowledging everyone for their contributions."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Career Goals
9. Why is chemistry important to you?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer is looking for candidates who demonstrate a strong passion for chemistry. They also want to learn more about your interest in their organization and their projects, as well as the field of chemistry.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
How to Answer
Demonstrate a deep understanding of scientific and mathematical principles and give specific examples of how chemistry is applied to everyday situations. Take this opportunity to show that you understand how chemistry is related to current events, including petroleum, product recalls, pollution, the environment, and technological advances.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"Chemistry is fundamental to the world we live in and plays an important role in everyone's lives, touching almost every aspect of our existence in some way. Chemistry is essential for meeting our basic needs of food, clothing, shelter, health, energy, clean air, water, and soil. I chose this as my profession because I wanted to make a difference in the lives of others."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Career Goals
10. What excites you about chemistry?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to know why you chose this profession. Your answer should ensure them that you have a long-term passion for chemistry.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
How to Answer
Before your interview, write down the aspects of chemistry excite you most. Think back to when you conducted your first experiment and consider past role models or professors that inspired you in some way. You may also answer this question with something you read or heard about recently that interests you and explain why you find it exciting and relevant.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"I love chemistry because it's very hands-on. Chemistry students and professionals learn through experimentation, which engages critical thinking and relates to current real-world applications. While my college friends spent their days reading books in the library, I planned my experiments, ran tests in the lab, and reported my findings as a part of the regular curriculum."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Career Goals
11. What do you know about our company and our chemists?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This is one of the most common questions employers pose to candidates. It is used to assess whether you know the company, its purpose, vision, project work, and leaders. The interviewer expects you to discuss the specific reasons you want to work for them.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
How to Answer
Review the company's website and try to find an issue, project, or expert that you connect with and mention that in your answer. Consider talking about putting your skills into practice, your deep interest in continuous learning, and your desire to work with their expert chemists.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"I was motivated to apply for this position because I am very familiar with your company and the work you perform. Your chemists are considered leading scientists in the industry. I believe I possess the education and skills needed for this role, and I would love to learn from some of the more experienced experts at your company. I always look for ways to learn while I work. Lastly, I would also like to fulfill my career goals by working for a large, fast-paced research facility with leading researchers who work toward improving the lives of others."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Career Goals
12. How could you improve to become a better chemist?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This question allows the interviewer to assess your weaknesses and strengths. There is no such thing as a perfect chemist; even the best in the field can improve in certain areas. The interviewers want to hear that you realize there are always areas for improvement, that you're honest, and recognize that continuous learning is important as you grow in the profession.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
What You Need to Know
A good chemist must possess several traits, such as analytical skills, math skills, and attention to detail. It's okay to acknowledge the areas you're working on. Be honest in your response and express your desire to improve your skills. It's okay to acknowledge areas that you're improving on, but don't discuss shortcomings that could cost you the job.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"As a lab assistant, I don't get to lead often, at least not formally. In the long run, I'd love to take on more responsibilities as a leader in a lab setting. This could mean leading meetings or projects, mentoring or training new team members, or other related tasks. I enjoy the hands-on lab work, and I still want to do that, which is why I applied for this position. However, I'd like to work on my leadership skills at the same time."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Career Goals
13. How long do you see yourself working as a chemist?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to learn more about your career goals to determine if you will be a long-term fit for their company. Companies seek committed employees because they positively impact productivity and profitability.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
How to Answer
Demonstrating that you intend to stay with the company for a significant amount of time can show a hiring manager that you're a strong candidate for the position. By explaining that you are looking for an organization with advancement opportunities or opportunities for growth, you indicate that you plan to stay in the position for some time.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I have always loved Chemistry and can't imagine doing anything else. Chemistry checks all of the boxes for me; I get to work with other curious scientists, do hands-on work, see immediate results from my efforts, solve real-world problems, and improve the lives of others. I'm currently looking for a chemist position with a leading company where I can explore opportunities for growth and specialization. I'd like to eventually become a lead chemist and mentor others."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"While I love my current role as a chemist lab assistant and have a great team of coworkers, I'm looking for a position with more opportunities to conduct research. I saw that your company works to promote from within, which attracted me because I want to take on more research and development responsibilities once I master my assistant researcher duties."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Career Goals
14. What criteria are you using to evaluate the company for which you hope to work?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
When you're asked this question, remember that it's another way for your interviewer to find out more about you and what you're looking for in your next role. This is often asked late in the interview process when there is a strong interest in the candidate, so there can be a shift from the candidate selling to the employer to the employer selling to the candidate.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
How to Answer
Describe your desired criteria with typical company characteristics, such as location, benefits, company stability, and company growth. Keep your criteria positive. Research the company you're interviewing with beforehand so that you can tailor your answer to their specifications and attributes. Be creative. Don't give the same answer as every other candidate; put yourself out there and stand out from other candidates.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"In my recent job search, I researched companies based not only on location, job requirements, and benefits but also their mission statements, company goals, and dedication to their local communities. I have been impressed with the way your company has carried itself over the past year and a half and managed to stay busy and retain most of your staff. I look forward to adding my talents and leadership abilities to the strong traditions and framework that you've spent years building."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Competency
15. What skills and experience make you the best candidate for this position?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Employers want to hire candidates who can meet their requirements for the role. They may ask this question to assess whether you possess the right skills or qualifications.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
How to Answer
Before your interview, review the job description and identify the skills or traits sought by the employer. In your answer, mention these skills to demonstrate your ability to meet their needs. When possible, provide an example of a time you used those skills successfully. Also, include a unique skill or talent you have that will contribute to this company.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"As someone who has worked in this field for several years, I understand the importance of being safety conscious. I have strong attention to detail, which I use to maintain a safe environment for myself and my colleagues. I have spent time training less experienced colleagues on several safety rules, such as proper glassware-cleaning techniques. I also use this skill when recording notes and documentation. My prior supervisor complimented me on my work regularly due to its detail and accuracy."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Competency
16. What new skills have you learned over the past year?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers want to see that you are willing to improve, grow, and thrive as a professional. Chemists are always growing and learning. This is a crucial characteristic in any field since every industry is continually advancing, especially in this global economy.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
How to Answer
Approach this question by honestly describing what you have done to accelerate your self-improvement objectives. This could include taking additional courses or participating in training seminars. Share a time you took it upon yourself to learn new technology or software systems. Explain how your new skills could be useful in this position. Emphasize that you consider yourself to be a lifelong learner and are eager to develop in any way you can.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"In my previous job, I was put on a research team with an amazing group of experienced chemists. I was a bit inexperienced, but I saw this as an excellent opportunity to learn from some of the top experts in the field. I try to learn as much as I can by asking questions, taking on advanced tasks to challenge myself, and spending time outside of work to research topics and seek out other experts and educators."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Cultural Fit
17. What is your ideal work/lab environment?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This is a commonly asked question in interviews. Hiring managers ask this question to gauge how you will approach your work and interact with your colleagues. They want to see if you are a good fit for the company culture and if your priorities and values align with theirs. Overall, interviewers are looking for an honest and confident response.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
How to Answer
To prepare an effective response to this question, research the company's work culture by reading online reviews, networking with past employees, and studying the job description. Focus on an environment that allows the use and growth of your established skills and qualities. Talk about your work style, and create an answer that blends well with the company's vision. Avoid talking about an ideal workplace with lots of vacation time and flexible hours.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"My ideal work environment would be somewhat structured but also allow for creative interactions between team members. I like to work in a setting in which my responsibilities are clearly defined and I am made aware of how the quality of my work will be evaluated. In my ideal work environment, everyone knows their role and has a place within the organizational structure. At the same time, people should be encouraged to collaborate and ask questions when they're uncertain."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I do not have a specific work environment in mind. I am flexible and can adapt and thrive in whatever work environment I am placed in. My only requirement is an environment in which I can fully utilize my experience and abilities."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Discovery
18. Why did you want to become a chemist?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer wants to learn about your background in this field. They want to know that you are serious about the profession and this employment opportunity and that you are unlikely to change your mind.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
How to Answer
Highlight your genuine excitement for some of the fundamental components of the industry, the in-depth laboratory-based research, or applying your knowledge to everyday issues. Discuss your background and interest in the sciences, your motivation, and your driving curiosity to discover and understand the world around you.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"I decided to become a Chemist after taking several AP courses in high school. I've always been interested in science, and by studying chemistry, I've learned how to be objective, reason, and solve problems. I found that my advanced studies in chemistry in college and my career have helped me understand current events, including news stories about petroleum, product recalls, pollution, the environment, and technological advances."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Discovery
19. Are you a natural problem solver?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Employers want to know how you respond to problems and critical situations. Effective problem-solving requires a combination of creative thinking and sound analytical skills.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
How to Answer
Describe your process of problem-solving. Make use of industry language that indicates that you are solution-focused. Provide a specific example that focuses on a challenging situation, and practice your response before the interview - this will help structure your thoughts.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"Throughout my education, I have always been drawn to the experimentation aspect of chemistry. I love the hands-on problem-solving approach, and I enjoy using new and varying materials to develop innovative solutions. When I'm faced with a problem, I typically start by doing research or looking at examples of how this problem has been solved by others. From that research, I'm able to decide which approach will work best for me 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 28th, 2022
Discovery
20. What work do you look forward to doing here?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers ask this question to make sure you understand the type of work the company performs and that you are a good fit for their project teams. They also want to know that you can offer skills that will contribute to the company's future success.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
How to Answer
Take this opportunity to show your interest in this company and the work they do. To answer this question successfully, consider your goals as they relate to the position. While your answer should be honest, it should also explain how you will add value to the company.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I'm looking for a new challenge to broaden my experience. I believe this opportunity to work for a large pharmaceutical company will do just that. With my unique skill set and past work experiences, I feel I can bring new ideas from other industries and apply them to your projects. I also see an opportunity to build new working relationships, collaborate, and continue to learn new things."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"I'm looking for an opportunity to work on larger scale projects that have the budgets that allow for innovative labs 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."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Education
21. How do you stay current in the field of chemistry?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
By asking this question, interviewers are trying to determine your dedication to this field. They want to hear about your excitement for chemistry and see if you keep up with industry advancements.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
How to Answer
You can respond to this question by highlighting your genuine excitement for the fundamental components of the position, such as the in-depth laboratory-based research or applying your knowledge to everyday issues. Prepare for this question before the interview by making a list of current issues and research projects that interest you. When possible, mention a recent development you read about that excites you.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"On the weekends, I often browse some of my favorite scientific journalism websites. When I read something interesting, I enjoy bringing up the topic at work and discussing it with my colleagues. I follow several chemistry thought-leaders on social media and participate in virtual events and webinars about current topics whenever possible"
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Education
22. How well did your college experience prepare you for this job?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers are looking for real-world applications of your college experience. They hope to gain some insight into your nature and ability to adapt and apply the things you learned in school to the work at the company.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Connect the dots between your college experience and employment. You have an opportunity to provide a solid foundation for your candidacy. Make a connection to the specific role or to responsibilities required by the role you're interviewing for. Review the job description and consider how your education relates to it. Once you've identified what the employer wants, 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 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"I feel that I was well prepared for real-life situations and future jobs because of my college experience. Challenging STEM courses taught me exceptional critical-thinking skills and how to solve complex problems. My college experience also taught me that the answers will not always be in front of me 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 to come up with the best solutions."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Knowledge
23. What new method in chemistry excites you the most?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Hiring managers are more likely to offer you this position if you show enthusiasm for the role and the field of chemistry. They want to know if you are aware of the big themes and trends in your field. Interviewers also ask about trends to get a sense of your engagement with work.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
How to Answer
At a certain career level, you will be expected to keep up with industry news and be aware of discoveries and new technologies. It's important to understand the methods, advances, and trends in chemistry and be prepared to confidently discuss your views about the factors that influence the evolution of your profession. Even if you are not asked this specific question, your insight into the industry can inform your responses to other interview questions you may be asked.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"In the last few years, we have seen fantastic advances in chemistry that address challenging environmental issues. I'm passionate about the latest method to harvest water from the air to deal with the pressing issues of climate change, droughts, and the rise in recent forest fires. Getting enough water in arid climates is a major global problem that is likely to get worse with climate change. Harvesting water from the air is one way to address water scarcity, but technology has a long way to go before it can become a universal solution. This year, researchers created a MOF-based water harvester that's driven by light; this is a fantastic demonstration of using chemistry to address a real-world problem."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Knowledge
24. Describe two or three major trends in chemistry today.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Hiring managers can gauge your interest in or passion for chemistry by asking about your understanding of trends and engagement with industry news and innovative research. Most employers want to hire forward-thinking employees who are in tune with trends that impact their profession. With insight into trends and what's expected in your industry, you can propel a company beyond the status quo.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
How to Answer
Demonstrating your awareness of the latest trends can show the employers that your knowledge will maintain current. You can use this knowledge to solve problems or implement new processes and procedures. Your answer should include the specific steps you take to stay current. When possible, mention a recent development you read about that excites you.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"I am passionate about chemistry, and I use my free time to learn about the latest happenings in our industry. In the past few years, artificial intelligence has dominated the research landscape of many fields, and chemistry is no exception. There has also been a push to find innovative ways to recycle and reuse waste and materials. Upcycling plastics influences the design of value-added materials, a distinct alternative to landfilling. I recently contributed to a published article in Chemistry Today about discoveries regarding the sustainable metamorphosis of materials in diapers that are being made into useable adhesives for the automobile industry."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Management
25. How do you manage conflicts with colleagues in the lab?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Interviewers ask this question to gain a better understanding of your personality, problem-solving skills, and professionalism in the workplace. They want to make sure you stay calm and professional when dealing with conflict at work. In addition, they want to see that you leave your ego behind and are willing to compromise and work with others to keep the company running smoothly.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
How to Answer
Every office or lab environment will have conflict, but this shouldn't hinder your ability to get the job done. Your response should 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. However, if this has not happened to you, and you are an entry-level professional, you could also offer an example of a conflict you resolved at university or in a volunteer position.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I have found before I do anything to address conflict, it is best to simply listen, especially as a leader. If I jump in and share my perspective first, it could make it more difficult for others to share their view of the situation. I try to create a space where other lab members feel safe voicing their concerns and perspectives and do my best to understand where each person is coming from. I realize that it can be challenging to reconcile multiple perspectives."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"It is important to remember that a culture of openness is essential for team success. Whenever possible, I make it clear that open conversation is welcome, and I take feedback seriously. I feel it's important to remain professional, express empathy, and work with team members to resolve their concerns. Then, they'll be more likely to trust me and be open and honest in the future. In one instance, I decided to have an all-hands-on-deck meeting; I held an impromptu lab meeting to create a work-life balance policy. It quickly became evident that there were many different perspectives in the lab about what such a policy might entail. Some people wanted immediate responses to their emails, and others wanted to unplug during evenings and weekends. By voicing all these concerns collectively, the lab team was able to hear those perspectives and work together to develop a set of policies that aimed to meet everyone's needs."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Management
26. Describe your daily routine as a chemist.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
This is a common interview question, and your answer can tell them a few things. First, an interviewer wants to see what responsibilities you currently have (or had at your most recent job) and how you approach your work. They may also want to understand how you respond to changing environments and your ability to adapt to those changes.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
What You Need to Know
The daily routine of a person mirrors that person's personality. Your daily routine shows how much you value discipline. Explain that you are flexible, able to accommodate unexpected requests, and willing to go to others for help when necessary. Reread the job description to determine what qualifications and skills are most important to this job, what tasks are a core element of the position you're applying for, and what requirements or duties are listed first.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"I start my day by checking in with my team. I review emails and address any emergencies or requests. A typical day involves carrying out lab work to develop and improve new and existing products. This can include developing formulations in the lab, testing the quality and performance of a material, and reporting the results of this work to the team or project leader. Once suitable systems are found, the process is scaled up to a production trial. A typical day may also include talking with customers to determine what they require from a product, collecting feedback, and working with suppliers to determine what products they can offer that may be suitable for a given project."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Management
27. Who was your favorite manager and why? Describe their skills, traits, and characteristics.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
When the hiring manager asks a question like this, they want to know if you have the right qualities to be a leader. The hiring manager also wants to understand your qualities as an employee - what your work habits are within a team setting and how you react to your supervisors.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
How to Answer
Stay positive when discussing previous managers, and always turn the focus back on your work style. Discuss how a previous supervisor, manager, or professor helped you reach the company or personal goals or taught you how to lead others. If you stay upbeat and focused, you can stand out from other candidates.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"In my opinion, the best type of leader has a strong vision and a good understanding of the individual aspects of their company. In my previous job, my supervisor helped the company achieve goals by focusing on these two important factors. This manager was consistent in communicating the main goal of the organization to the team and excellent at assigning responsibility to specific individuals. When we worked on a team project, I found myself working hard to meet the company objectives, and I had a clear understanding of my specific contribution to this goal."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"A good leader can motivate members of a team to do their best. It's also important for a successful leader to have a clear understanding of the steps needed to solve various project, company, and morale problems. I think the best leaders are more successful when they are open-minded, accept feedback from other members of the team, and consider their input when developing solutions. Leaders should feel comfortable delegating jobs to other team members; this builds trust and camaraderie in the workplace. For example, my previous supervisor was open to ideas from everyone to solve problems. On a past project, I made a useful suggestion, and my supervisor recruited me to resolve a difficult issue. After everything was finished, we had come up with a better process that led to a reduction in expenses."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Qualifications
28. What qualities does a chemist need to be successful?
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
The interviewer expects you to describe the qualities and skills a chemist should have. They want to know the special talents, experiences, passions, or attributes that make you an outstanding candidate for the role you're interviewing for.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
How to Answer
Talk about the qualities and skills you possess and how they would make you successful in this role. Don't just focus on your scientific knowledge. Talk about other qualities and soft skills like organizational skills, strong communication skills, critical thinking skills, and problem-solving skills.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"A chemist should be naturally curious and possess strong analytical skills since there is a lot of analyzing and examining in this career. Chemists should also have good communication skills since they are often asked to communicate and present lab results, complex data, and test findings. As a chemist, critical thinking and quick problem-solving skills are essential. Some situations require quick decision making, especially in emergencies."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Situational
29. Tell me about a time you went above and beyond in a past position.
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 written job duties. They also want to see how you perform under pressure and if you can stay calm and relaxed through difficult situations and experiences.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Focus Your Answer On
Your answer to this question can illustrate your specific skills, accomplishments, and other traits you possess, so take some time to figure out which attributes you'd like to convey during the interview. Prepare for this question by thinking about unexpected situations you 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.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
1st Answer Example
"I enjoy going above and beyond in my position. It makes the clients feel special, and it helps our business. I regularly check in with our clients to give them an update and see how they are doing, 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 client's expectations by keeping in touch with them builds lasting relationships that keep the clients loyal to our business."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
2nd Answer Example
"In college, I noticed that my Chemistry lab supervisor didn't complete most of the staff schedules for the lab assistants for the following weeks. My supervisor typically completed them on time, but he had been working on several other urgent projects. Rather than add to his burden by complaining, I offered to help him with some of his workloads so he could complete the schedule. We worked overtime hours for a week or two, and I helped him catch up on everything while learning new skills. I am always ready to go above and beyond to help a colleague or manager with tasks and projects."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Situational
30. Tell us about a time you thought outside of the box at work.
Why the Interviewer Asks This Question
Hiring managers pose this question to see if you can think on your feet and solve problems. They want to know if you're innovative enough to think of alternative solutions to a problem.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
How to Answer
Discuss a time you had to solve a problem creatively. Talk about how you came up with a creative solution to a customer problem or improved an internal process. Your answer doesn't have to be an invention or a tremendous breakthrough. Any unexpected decision you made will most likely count as a creative solution. Thinking outside the box means being innovative and creative. Choose the skills you want to highlight; they could include critical thinking, initiative, persistence, or innovation.
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022
Answer Example
"In my past position as a lead chemist working with various government agencies, I had to find innovative ways to describe complex concepts to government leaders and non-scientific people. Often, these concepts and ideas were too theoretical for audience members if they were not compared to simpler ideas we can visualize in our everyday lives. As the lead presenter, I designed the final presentation around analogies using visual aids, including images and diagrams that were easy to understand. The council members quickly caught on, understood the big idea, supported our proposal, and provided additional funding for the project."
Written by Sue Oberliesen on February 28th, 2022