How would you handle testing 100 samples?
Your answer to this question provides the interviewer a lot of information about you. It highlights the following areas: problem solving skills, organizational skills, and whether or not you think 100 samples is too many or standard. Depends on the type of lab you are applying to as to whether or not you can expect 100 samples at once, in one day, etc...; therefore, be prepared to answer accordingly.
"I have experience running hundreds of samples a day for large scale projects. Prior to testing, I would make sure there are enough reagents, equipment is available, and determine the number of runs based on both reagents and equipment. When preparing and testing samples, I would open one sample at a time and keep the rest on ice or in a rack depending on the type of sample."
Community answers are written by other candidates practicing this set. Reading how others frame the same question is one of the fastest ways to sharpen your own.
Anonymous Answer
Before conducting laboratory testing on 100 samples, I would carefully plan the testing process to ensure accuracy and efficiency. This would involve the following steps:
1. Assessing and organizing all materials and reagents required for the experiments, including growth media and test kits.
2. Ensuring that all samples are properly labeled to minimize the risk of confusion and errors during testing.
3. Preparing the samples in accordance with established protocols and safety guidelines.
4. Conducting the tests using the appropriate methods and techniques, and recording the results accurately.
By following these steps, I can help ensure that the laboratory testing process is conducted in a controlled and precise manner, leading to reliable and valid results.
Marcie's Feedback
Nice! You come across as very organized and thoughtful, which is great. Preparing and planning sound like the best place to start when testing so many samples. Have you ever tested a lot of samples before at one time? If this is the case, be sure to mention this as well. Otherwise, excellent job!