What is the most fascinating experience you have had during a clinical trial?
"As a grad student, I was asked to participate in a cancer research program that was on the brink of discovering a new treatment in pediatric oncology. In this role, I was able to partner with some of the most advanced and recognized professionals in research. It was thrilling to be a part of the team that advanced the study, which is now in trial across the country."
"I have been part of many clinical trials through my six-year career in clinical research. I would say that the most interesting trial I have been a part of was testing a new marijuana-based drug and its effect on epileptic seizures. The drug, in fact, reduced seizure episodes in the test subjects by 87%. I am excited to see where marijuana- drug research takes us in the future."
The interviewer would like to know about a clinical trial that has excited you. The best way to answer this question is to tell an exciting story from a previous study. Be prepared to lay out the setting, the goal, what the findings were and why you found it so fascinating. The primary goal here is to show the interviewer that you have a passion for what you do.
"In my previous position I was working a clinical trial for a new sleep aid drug. Our trial group was to determine the level of the drugs of effectiveness in assisting adult insomnia. About halfway through the trial, we found that our subjects were not only experiencing better sleep patterns but their skin problems were also clearing up. It's always fascinating when you discover an alternate use or solution during a clinical trial."
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Anonymous Answer
I have been part of many clinical trials through my 08-year career in clinical research. I would say that the most interesting trial I have been a part of was testing a new monoclonal antibody in RA patients, the drug, in fact, reduces the pain intensity and showed great efficacy in the RA patients. This was really fascinating for me as my mother had severe RA.
Stephanie's Feedback
Wow! What a great opportunity to be able to see firsthand the positive impacts that clinical research can have. My only suggestion for improving your response is to add a closing sentence to tie these thoughts together. For example: "Being able to contribute to a clinical trial that had a direct positive impact on one of my loved ones was an especially meaningful experience for me."
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