30 Microbiologist Interview Questions & Answers
Below is a list of our Microbiologist 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.
1. What is the difference between accuracy and precision?
How to Answer
The interviewer is looking for how clearly you delineate the difference between these two terms. You can reply by either providing an example that illustrates that you understand the difference and can relate it to real-world situations or by simply describing the difference. You could follow up with saying why both are relevant and important in a laboratory setting.
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"Precision is the agreement between a series of measurements obtained from multiple sampling of the same homogeneous sample under the prescribed conditions, while accuracy is the proximity of an individual measurement to the 'true' value as determine by the reference method/gold standard. Of course, both accuracy and precision are incredibly important in a lab setting."
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
2. Describe your experience with writing a stand operating procedure (SOP).
How to Answer
The interviewer will likely ask a variety of questions regarding specific experience as well as how well you can explain scientific concepts to others. Following SOPs is a part of the daily routine as a Microbiologist. You may also be tasked with writing one if the lab implements a new procedure and/or updates an existing one. This question is confirming that you either have experience or feel comfortable with such a task.
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"I designed, optimized, and validated a new DNA extraction assay to be utilized on several downstream applications. This required not only careful record keeping of preliminary protocols and data, but also the final SOP once optimized."
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
3. Tell me about your microscopy experience.
How to Answer
The interviewer will likely ask a variety of questions testing your knowledge and experience as well as how well you can explain scientific concepts to others. Your response to this question lets the interviewer get to know what types of assays you are familiar with and how well you can answer a question that is somewhat open ended.
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"I've used an inverted microscope on a daily basis for maintaining cell culture and subsequent protein expression assays, virus inoculation and detection, CCID50 and plaque assays. Some of the assays require counting (using the camera and retina display feature) as with the plaque assay for example."
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
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4. When your boss asks you to design an assay to detect drug resistant bacteria, provide a list of 3 things you will do before testing and optimizing begin?
How to Answer
The interviewer will likely ask a variety of situation-based questions testing your knowledge as well as how you explain your process. Both in a research and a clinical setting, new and/or improved assays are being developed and implemented in the laboratory. Do ask whether or not this is a diagnostic assay with FDA regulations so that the interviewer knows that you know the difference between clinical testing and research.
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"First, I'll review current literature to understand what is currently being used to test the particular drug resistant bacteria in question. Next, I'll evaluate necessary and available equipment, reagents, and resources needed. Finally, I'll write a protocol for the procedure."
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
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5. Describe a time when you made a pipetting error and what you did to fix it?
How to Answer
Your interviewer is looking for how well you respond to mistakes - we all make them sometimes! Since pipettes are one of the most used tools in the laboratory, you should understand how to use it properly and understand mistakes that are common. Additionally, you should be able to articulate how to avoid these common mistakes and minimize error.
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"When I pipette in the lab, I am deliberate and slowly pipette the necessary volume. There have been times, that I've used the incorrect pipette size for the volume needed, but I notice this immediately as I am aware of how various amounts appear in the correct vs. incorrect pipette. For example, it's very obvious to me what 1mL looks like vs. 10ul. I would know immediately if the wrong pipette is used."
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
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6. A colleague asks you to ensure the glassware is sterilized for next week's experiments, what do you do?
How to Answer
The interviewer will likely ask a variety of situation-based questions testing your knowledge as well as how you explain your process. Working as a Microbiologist entails performing different sterilization techniques based on types of testing being done and technology utilized. Since glassware is common equipment used in labs, it's important to understand how it's used and how to sterilize it.
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"Many of the labs I've worked in have trained staff that autoclave all glassware. After using in the lab, I rinse with DI water and then send for autoclaving which kills viruses and bacteria. You can get more specific with your answer if it is required for the specific position."
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
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7. When your boss asks you to get 5 aliquots each of 5 different samples to delivery to another department, what is being asked and how would you perform the task?
How to Answer
The interviewer will likely ask a variety of situation-based questions testing your knowledge as well as how you explain your process. This question is confirming that you know common lab terminology; you should know what an aliquot is. Also, it provides the interviewer with a sense of how you perform common laboratory tasks. As with any situation-based question, be sure to clearly outline your process so you do not skip around and appear disorganized.
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"When obtaining aliquots of RNA, I get a bucket of ice to thaw RNA samples, then working in the proper RNA designated location, I would pipette (15ul aliquots, for example) per 5 samples into 5 different tubes (a total of 25 samples) and deliver them either on ice if taking over immediately or deliver in a box of dry ice."
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
8. How has NGS changed testing and what is your experience using the technique?
How to Answer
Your interviewer is interested in how well you stay informed and up-to-date with new technology. Keeping up with new technology and how it benefits the field show interest and in most cases necessary since it's fairly common to bring on new assays. As a Microbiologist, you will be learning new techniques and scientific discoveries; it is part of the job.
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"I have experience with the Illumina MiSeq for NGS of RNA viruses and used Geneious bioinformatics software for the data analysis. Implementing this technology was very useful since not all symptomatic patients had the virus we suspected. Having the ability to test for a plethora of viruses at once saves money and time in the long run and identifies viruses that might go undetected otherwise."
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
9. What is the difference between a quantitative assay and a qualitative assay?
How to Answer
The interviewer will likely ask a variety of questions testing your knowledge and experience as well as how well you can explain scientific concepts to others. These terms and types of assays are commonly used in laboratory settings. You should not only know the difference, but be able to provide an example. Provide an example that illustrates your experience with both types of testing.
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"In my current position, I inoculate A549 cells with patient samples to determine whether or not the sample is infected of X virus. It's a qualitative assay since the result is either positive or negative. To confirm the qualitative result, I run PCR tests that are quantitative since the number of cycles determines the concentration of the target of interest."
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
10. What steps do you take to limit contamination?
How to Answer
This question gives you the opportunity to share your experience and knowledge of how to limit contamination and the significance. The interviewer may also be interested in how well you follow procedures (i.e., cleaning/sterilization procedures).
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"I use good aseptic technique; I wear and utilize PPE, and work in designated areas determined by type of work being done such as working in a BSC for cell culture."
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
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11. What is your experience with following procedure, preparing for, and involvement in a regulatory audit and/or inspections of any kind?
How to Answer
As a Microbiologist, you will likely encounter an audit or inspection of some kind whether internal or external. The type of audit and/or inspection varies depending on the type of organization and type of lab testing done at facility. Your answer should reflect your experience as well as awareness of expectation for particular position interviewing for.
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"I have prepared for a Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) inspection by following all protocols closely while having good documentation practices throughout. In addition, all proficiency testing is kept up-to-date. Although, reagents and documentation is organized and well maintained throughout the year, prior to inspection, I have done a walk-through of laboratory as well as review documentation for errors."
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
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Through my observation and participation in these audits, I have learned the importance of being disciplined and meticulous in the laboratory. This involves ensuring that all procedures are correctly followed, all necessary documentation is in order, and that all equipment and chemicals are up-to-date and properly maintained."
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12. In the scenario where your laboratory finds contamination, what troubleshooting step would you take?
How to Answer
Don't ask what type of contamination! It's irrelevant since the interviewer wants to know if you have experience dealing with contamination (most laboratory professionals do) and how you were able to control it. Reflect on a time when you might've dealt with contamination in the lab. If you are early in your career, then think about experience with this as a student and what you might've learned from instructors and other professionals.
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"In several PCR runs, I noticed the internal control was unusually positive in all samples. What was especially alarming is that it was positive in the negative control samples as well. This occurred on several runs on all of the machines leading me to believe it was a contamination issue rather than a specific failure related to reagents, equipment, or human error. I implemented the addition of Uracil-DNA Glycosylase (UNG) to the PCR assay to prevent carryover contamination between PCRs. This technique proved to be successful in future runs."
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
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13. What is gram staining and why is it significant?
How to Answer
The interviewer will likely ask a variety of questions testing your knowledge and experience as well as how well you can explain scientific concepts and techniques to others. Gram staining is a commonly used tool in most microbiology labs; therefore, it's necessary to be familiar with the technique.
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"Gram staining allows for differentiating between bacteria types due their cell walls that contain peptidoglycan, which is present as a thick layer in gram-positive bacteria and as a thin layer in the gram negative bacteria. It is typically the first step in bacterial identification due to the quick elimination capabilities."
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
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The distinction between Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria is important because it can provide valuable information about the bacteria's susceptibility to antibiotics and how they should be treated."
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14. In the scenario where your quality control fails, what troubleshooting step would you take?
How to Answer
This question will let the interviewer know whether or not you understand what a quality control is as well as provides an opportunity for you to impress with your troubleshooting and critical thinking skills. When preparing your answer to this question, be sure to outline it clearly and sequentially so you are able to provide a clean path for your interviewer to follow.
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"Since quality controls are necessary for all experiments, it's imperative that both the negative and positive control is successful. Depending on which one fails, I will troubleshoot accordingly. For example, if the positive control fails, the first thing I would check is whether or not I added the sample as human error is a common reason for failure. If there is an internal control for all samples including controls, I would ensure that is detectable. Other positives on the run eliminate reagent and machine errors of any sort."
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
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To investigate the issue, we conducted a repeated experiment utilizing a fresh batch of culture plates. Unfortunately, the results were consistent with the first failed test. We continued to examine the problem further and eventually identified the root cause: a defect in the autoclave used for sterilization. The temperature sensor in the autoclave was malfunctioning, leading to inadequate sterilization of the culture plates.
To rectify the problem, we took the autoclave out of service and repaired it."
Marcie's Feedback
15. What is the difference between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells? And, what is your experience with prokaryotic cells?
How to Answer
The interviewer will likely ask a variety of questions testing your knowledge and experience as well as how well you can explain scientific concepts to others. This question targets basic science knowledge which someone applying for a Microbiology position should know. It also gets at the different techniques used. A Microbiologist could perform assays utilizing either cell type so it's important to understand the differences.
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"Prokaryotic cells differ from eukaryotic cells in that they lack a membrane bound nucleus and other cell organelles. In addition, prokaryotic cells are much smaller in size. I've cultured both cell types. In the case of prokaryotic cells, I've inoculated E.coli cells to subsequently run PFGE to determine patterns in food-borne outbreaks."
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
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16. What made you choose to become a Microbiologist?
How to Answer
The interviewer is interested in knowing about what in particular motivated you to choose this career. Think back to what might've initially influenced your desire to take this career path. If you can, try to use this opportunity to tell a brief story that will give your interviewer some insight that can be both personal and memorable.
Written by Heather Douglass on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"I chose to become a microbiologist because I have always been curious about the effects of microorganisms on the environment and its inhabitants. I want to be a part of the solutions to our environmental problems. When I was a kid, I was always fascinated by microscopes and living things that were too small for me to see with a naked eye. As I've grown older, I'm still just as fascinated and now know more about how many of those living things impact the world around us. Being on top of the issues related to this area and finding solutions for them is all very exciting to me. The ever-changing landscape of the microbiology is fast-paced and keeps me engaged on a daily basis."
Written by Heather Douglass on October 7th, 2020
17. How would you handle testing 100 samples?
How to Answer
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.
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"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."
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
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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
18. What is the purpose of a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and give an example of when you've ran one in the past?
How to Answer
The interviewer will likely ask a variety of questions testing your knowledge and experience as well as how you explain your process. PCR is a common type of experiment/assay that is ran in many different types of laboratories. It's important to assess the knowledge and utilization experience a candidate has with routinely used tests.
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"PCR is used to amplify a target of interest which is done for a multitude of reasons. For example, PCR is used to determine whether or not a sample has detectable amounts of COVID-19 based on the specific gene targeted in the reaction."
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
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19. When making a 1L 1X PBS solution from the stock 10X concentration, how would you do it; which formula would you use?
How to Answer
The interviewer will likely ask a variety of situation-based questions testing your knowledge as well as how you explain your process. In this case, buffers and reagents come at concentrations that may or may not be suitable for direct use. This is a common calculation used on a routine basis as a Microbiologist. Don't ask what PBS is as it's irrelevant to the result and it's a common reagent in most laboratories.
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"Well, 100mL of 10X PBS and 900mL water is needed to make a 1X 1L solution. So, I use the formula C1V1 = C2V2 where
C1 = Initial concentration of solution
V1 = Initial volume of solution
C2 = Final concentration of solution
V2 = Final volume of solution."
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
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C1 = Initial concentration of solution
V1 = Initial volume of solution
C2 = Final concentration of solution
V2 = Final volume of solution."
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20. Tell me about a challenging interaction with reporting results to physicians, family members, or researchers.
How to Answer
Reporting results is a common responsibility of a Microbiologist. The purpose of this question is to access not only your professionalism and communication skills, but your technical skills as well. The interviewer is offering this situation-based question to understand how well you respond on your feet and how you combine your people skills with your analytical skills.
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"When reporting results, I follow the SOP. In one particular challenging situation, our lab wasn't able to meet turnaround time due to repeating a sample to ensure accuracy. I followed our procedure and told the attending physician that results would be delayed. Although, this wasn't what she wanted to hear at the time, I stayed professional and on point and told her we would have results to her ASAP and that quality was extremely important to us and our patients/clients."
Written by Clara Canon on October 7th, 2020
21. Do you have any questions for us?
How to Answer
Take advantage of this question! This is a great opportunity to show your interviewer that you are genuinely interested in the position, and it's a good time to show off some of your research about the company! It is also a chance for your to ask about the hiring timeline, as this will help you with your own timeline for following-up. Prepare a list of around 3 questions in advance and bring them to the interview. You can also take notes throughout the interview to ask targeted questions pertaining to something you discussed; this will impress your interviewer and show that you were listening.
Written by Heather Douglass on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"I understand that you have recently hired a new Executive Director. In what ways have you felt the impact of new leadership in this department specifically, and what does the organization's strategic vision look like over the next several years?"
Written by Heather Douglass on October 7th, 2020
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22. How do you prioritize when you have multiple deadlines?
How to Answer
Your interviewer is interested in learning about your process for completing and prioritizing several tasks at once. Be mindful that priorities might be fluid in certain conditions, so be sure to indicate your ability to assess and adapt as needed. You will want to demonstrate your ability to navigate this task on your own while also recognizing when it is necessary to involve your supervisor in the process.
Written by Heather Douglass on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"Before I leave work each day, I take a few moments to review my calendar for upcoming deadlines, and I create a manageable list of top priorities for the following morning. This allows me to get right to it the next day without needing to re-center my brain and figure out what to do first. When I first get a project, I also update my calendar with the full task timeline from start to finish and incorporate a workflow to automatically update me with reminders and changes. I always confirm the priority level of a project with my supervisor using a color-code system so I am able to make adjustments as needed without pulling her in too often. Of course, when I foresee a bottle-neck of tasks and deadlines, I loop my supervisor in to help brainstorm how to make adjustments."
Written by Heather Douglass on October 7th, 2020
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Additionally, I took regular breaks throughout the day to help me stay focused and energized for the next task. I maintained open communication with my colleagues and supervisors to inform them of my progress and to notify them of any possible bottlenecks or delays. This proactive approach allowed me to reduce my workload and manage my time more efficiently."
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23. What sort of working conditions do you thrive in?
How to Answer
In the scientific field, you might find yourself in a range of work environments, from standing or sitting in the lab to long periods at a desk. Your schedule could be cyclical and repetitive. When preparing for this question, be sure to do as much research as you can on the organization to gain a better understanding of the overall environment. Also, look carefully at the job description for any language around working conditions or physical requirements, which are often listed at the bottom. Be truthful in your response to this question, because you do not want to offer false expectations or set yourself up to work in an environment that doesn't suit you.
Written by Heather Douglass on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"I enjoy having some flexibility in my day, either with my location or being able to sit or stand and move around a bit. One thing I love about my career is that I can spend my time working hands-on in a lab and also analyzing data at a desk. I also like to have some predictability, so it helps for me to know what the general cycle of things looks like and how I contribute on a day-to-day basis."
Written by Heather Douglass on October 7th, 2020
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At the same time, I appreciate having some predictability in my day-to-day work, it's important to have a clear understanding of the tasks and responsibilities that need to be completed and how they contribute to the company's overall goals."
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24. What is your greatest weakness? What are you doing to improve it?
How to Answer
You want to be honest when answering a question about your greatest weakness, and you want to be mindful of what level of truth you are sharing. You might know that your greatest weakness is truthfully snoozing your alarm each morning, but that isn't an answer you want to share. Instead, consider a weakness that doesn't paint you in a light that will deem you unfit for the position. You might also consider a weakness that in some cases might be seen as very relatable to others or even perceived as a strength to some. Be sure you have an action plan in place for improving on this weakness as well.
Written by Heather Douglass on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"My greatest weakness is getting heavily absorbed in my work. I love what I do, and sometimes I have difficulty leaving work at work and balancing out things and time for myself outside of work. Over the last year, I have been working more on incorporating routine self-checks, focusing on stress-relieving activities, and establishing boundaries so I don't find myself researching a project as bedtime reading! I've also partnered with a couple of co-workers to hold ourselves accountable to reaching each of our personal goals."
Written by Heather Douglass on October 7th, 2020
25. What is your greatest strength?
How to Answer
This can be a difficult question to answer - we are our own toughest critics - and the interviewers know it! Be sure to prepare for this question in advance so you don't find yourself sitting in silence searching for an answer during the interview. Make sure that the answer you share is relevant in some way, or find a way to explain it to appear relevant. If you have trouble thinking of a good response, then think back to past performance reviews or kudos you have received from your co-workers. You may also ask colleagues or friends for input. When it comes time to share, be confident in your delivery!
Written by Heather Douglass on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"I would say that my greatest strength is adaptability. I am adaptable in my communication style, in how I support others, and in my prioritization of tasks. I'm able to remain confident and positive when things change, even when it is a difficult or unexpected pivot."
Written by Heather Douglass on October 7th, 2020
26. What drew you to our organization?
How to Answer
With any job interview, it is crucial to understand the organization to which you are applying as well as what motivates you to work there. Visit the organization's website to learn key information such as studies they've been involved in, specialties, and community impact. Knowing how the organization started, who started the organization, mission statement, vision statement, and core values will be sure to impress the interviewer. Consider looking for any headlines they have made recently for additional context.
Written by Heather Douglass on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"I have been following this organization and its ongoing evolution for the last 7 years. Over the course of the last several years, I've seen you continue to make incredible strides in our field and lead by example. In addition to the work you do, I understand that you are heavily involved in your local community and find ways to partner, uplift, and support others in new and creative ways. As a scientist who also values community, I am extremely inspired by your model and would love to bring my skills and passion to contribute to the team."
Written by Heather Douglass on October 7th, 2020
27. Are you a detail-oriented person?
How to Answer
This may seem like a straightforward question, especially in the scientific field. If you've made it to an interview, then your interviewers will expect your answer to be yes. What they are looking for is less about the 'yes' and more about the - you guessed it - details! Think about how are you detail-oriented, what does it look like, and what do you do? Don't be afraid to share examples!
Written by Heather Douglass on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"Absolutely - I am always focused on the details in nearly all areas of my life. Paying attention to detail allows me to see and learn patterns that can explain the way much of the world operates. I enjoy working in the scientific field, because it encourages me to fully embrace the details, whether hands-on in the lab or back at my desk creating workflows and conditions to streamline my work and allow me to bring the research to life in reports and on screen."
Written by Heather Douglass on October 7th, 2020
28. How do you feel about supervising others and their work?
How to Answer
The position you are interviewing for may require you to supervise a few people or a whole team. It is also possible that the interviewers want the person they hire to ultimately grow into more of a leadership role. When preparing your answer to this question, focus on your team management and leadership skills as well as your ability to guide and mentor others. If you do not have a lot of experience supervising others and their work, then reflect on a good supervisor you have had and what they did - or didn't do - to support you and push you to do well.
Written by Heather Douglass on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"I thoroughly enjoy supporting others, especially when I am able to offer insight or guide them in some way. In my current lab, I oversee a team of 4 junior researchers. I meet with each of them biweekly to review their progress, learn about their experience, hear their challenges, and offer coaching and support. I have found that I enjoy my supervisory role as much as I enjoy my research!"
Written by Heather Douglass on October 7th, 2020
29. Give me example of a large project or task you completed, the steps you took, and the overall outcome.
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know how you go about planning out and breaking down a big project. They might also be interested in gauging how well you delegate tasks or seek support from others, so this is an opportunity to demonstrate a balance of thriving as an independent self-starter that also succeeds in collaborative teamwork environments. The interviewers might be interested in determining if you are a good fit for the organization's future plans which may require you to start working on some new projects. Don't feel confined to using an example in the field, directly. A response from another profession or even from your education can be equally powerful if it is fairly recent and you outline it well. Be sure to explain the project enough to give them an idea of its scope without oversharing. Also, balance how you speak to each point - you don't want to downplay the process or overall outcome.
Written by Heather Douglass on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"Before I became a microbiologist, I worked for a scientific research nonprofit organization in their development department. We ran our biggest fundraising campaign towards the end of the year, and I was solely in charge of the major donor mailing for the campaign. I was given the general parameters and an excel document of potential recipients as well as a tight deadline. I knew that my whole team was under pressure, so I didn't want to add stress to stress. I distributed a detailed outline of who needed to review what and by when, and I followed up by personally checking in with each stakeholder in a calm, positive way. I requested a team of volunteers from our community coordinator and called them in when all of the components were ready to assemble. Together, the team of volunteers and I prepared over 400 separate mailings that included 5 personalized items in each mailing - and I managed to complete the project from start to finish 2 days prior to the deadline! I believe much of the success of the project can be attributed to being communicative, positive, and seeking external help to alleviate internal pressure. It was a huge success!"
Written by Heather Douglass on October 7th, 2020
30. What have you done to further your own professional development in the past 5 years.
How to Answer
The interviewer is asking this question to determine if you are driven and motivated to progressing yourself professionally. Tell the interviewer about any career related courses, leadership workshops, or safety training. If you haven't attended many conferences or workshops, then consider how you have gone above-and-beyond in your work to learn from others. You might have a mentor, or maybe you've briefly stepped away from your career to try a new job in the hopes of gaining a new skillset.
Written by Heather Douglass on October 7th, 2020
Answer Example
"Over the last several years, I have found it extremely valuable to enhance my professional skillset beyond my education and traditional training. As research and collaboration increasingly utilize web- and cloud-based apps and platforms, I took it upon myself to attend a conference on Microsoft tools and applications to bring back to my team. I enhanced what I already knew, and I learned in-depth about apps and functions that I'd never seen. The outcome for my team has been overwhelmingly positive. In addition, I joined a local Microbiology Meet-up to network with top professionals in my area and learn from some of their research and experiences. Networking with other professionals in the field has helped me become a better mentor to junior researchers in the lab."
Written by Heather Douglass on October 7th, 2020