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Postdoc Interview Questions

With 10 sample answers.

Postdoc interview questions can be intimidating because your interviewer will be expected eloquent, in-depth, and insightful answers. You’ll need to show why you are the best candidate for a postdoc position and what you can contribute. There may be quite a few queries you’ll recognize from graduate school interview questions , but a postdoc interview will tend to be more focused and specific to the position or type of research required of the role. You can expect questions about your PhD studies, your research history and work history, as well as some common interview questions you’ve seen before. You may also be asked to prepare a postdoc interview presentation. In this blog, we’ll look at some common postdoc interview questions and sample answers, what the postdoc interview is and how to prepare for it.

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Article Contents 7 min read

Common postdoc interview questions, 1. why did you choose to apply for this postdoc position.

Your work with [research project] in 2018, which was published in [academic journal] is what drew me to this position. I was fascinated reading about your discoveries, and I enjoyed the opportunity to gain a more nuanced understanding of your topic. I applied for this position because I believe I am well-suited to the role, and I am intrigued about being a part of your upcoming projects.

2. What are you hoping to gain from this position?

I applied for this position because your lab is well-known for being at the top of its field, and I wanted to learn from the best. I am eager to expand my knowledge in the field and gain a more nuanced view, and I am confident that this position will allow me to, in learning from the top researchers in this field, to further my knowledge and professional goals.

3. Do you have any experience supervising graduate students?

During my PhD studies I did have an occasion to mentor and supervise graduate students in a biological sciences master’s program. I assisted my professor, [Dr. Y], who allowed me to independently supervise the students for multiple labs. I enjoyed the opportunity to pass on advice I had learned as a graduate student and provide assistance.

4. How will this postdoc position help you attain your career goals?

This position will grant me a solid foundation in my chosen field, allowing me to learn directly from the field’s recognized experts and observe them. It is my goal to focus my career on this discipline, so to me it is the clear choice to begin by gaining experience and learning from the ground up.

5. What skills and experience would you bring to this position?

As you can see from my CV, I worked with [Dr. X] in the [Lab Name] for 2 years. Their lab undertook similar work to this position, though not as specialized. I am very familiar with the methods and protocols used in your lab, and I am eager to broaden my understanding in this field through your current projects.

Would you like us to help you with your grad school interview? ","buttonText":"Free Strategy Call","buttonColor":"#ffffff","bannerUnderText":null,"belowButtonText1":null,"belowButtonText2":null,"trustpilot":false}" :url=""https:\/\/bemoacademicconsulting.com\/contact-schedule-free-strategy-call"" code="banner1" background-color="#000066" button-color="#ffffff" banner-image> 6. How would you find funding for your work?

Finding funding is always a challenge, and I do have some experience with grant writing and fundraising in my last position with [research project]. Securing funding is competitive but I learned that writing clear and persuasive grants and proposals do help to draw some attention to your project. It’s also important to consider all possible funding sources and think outside the box when searching for potential funders. I like to consider any and all potential avenues without ruling anything out.

7. What did you most enjoy about graduate research?

My graduate research experiences included my first lab experiences as well as my first publications, both of which were immensely satisfying and fulfilling. It was a great opportunity for me to experience lab work, as well as stay with an important project throughout its life cycle all the way to publication. My graduate research has solidified for me my career trajectory and overall has been full of positive and engaging experiences.

8. Have you collaborated with other postdoc researchers?

Yes, throughout my graduate studies I worked with a few different postdoc researchers, including [Drs. A and Z] at [University]. Working with them was an excellent chance for mentorship and networking. [Dr. A] is the one who recommended that I apply for this position as it was a good skills match.

9. How would your faculty advisor from your doctorate program describe you?

My faculty advisor at [University] would most likely use the words tenacious, dedicated and creative to describe me. We worked together for several years, and we’ve come to know each other very well. My advisor, in their feedback, often mentioned that I don’t give up easily and I always look for another way, which is quite true. They did me the honor of writing me a letter of recommendation, as you can see in my file.

10. What do you think is most important to make collaborations a success?

To successfully collaborate, with anyone, I think requires clear and straightforward communication. With this there is less likely to be misunderstanding or friction down the road. I believe setting clear expectations and shared goals contributes to putting everyone in sync and on the same page. 

The postdoc interview is essentially the job interview you’ll attend when applying for a research, lab, teaching or fellowship position after completing your graduate studies. There are many different types of postdoc positions you can interview for, but essentially the postdoc interview allows your interviewer, the principal investigator, to determine whether you are a good fit for a research project, lab position or research fellowship. If you’re wondering how to find a job after grad school or how to find a postdoc , the postdoc interview is important to prepare for, as it can secure you the position you want.

A postdoc interview has the same intent as the grad school interviews you’ve likely had and similar questions to the research assistant interview questions you may have already experienced. A postdoc interview is used to get to know you as a candidate, learn more about your background and experience, and determine if you have the qualities they are looking for. Always aim, when answering interview questions, to showcase the skills and experience you have that fit the position, demonstrate an eagerness to learn and collaborate, as well as name what you stand to gain from the position. Lastly, be sure to come prepared with a list of postdoc interview questions to ask your interviewer afterwards!

Don't have a research resume ready? Here's a guide to writing one.

How to prepare for a postdoc interview

PhD consultants or your grad school advisor can be good places to look for help with preparing for the postdoc interview. Sometimes, consultants can set up mock interviews for you to help you prepare your answers and practice your interview performance. Mock interviews are close facsimiles of the real interview, so this is one the best preparation methods. Mock interviews also allow your mock interviewer to provide real-time feedback and advice on your delivery and postdoc interview answers. Your advisor or a consultant can also help you with writing your research resume or research interest statement if you’re applying for postdoc research positions, too!

Your aim in preparing for postdoc interviews is to be well prepared and confident, but don’t over-rehearse your answers. Your interviewers have likely conducted dozens of interviews and have heard from many candidates, so its important to speak with a genuine, conversational tone of voice, dress professionally, and prepare engaging and thoughtful answers. It’s also an excellent idea to research the lab, institution or fellowship where you’ll be interviewing, so you know what their research interests are and what to expect. And as always, sending a thank you note to the principal investigator after the interview is a nice touch.

There are many different types of postdoc interview questions, and they range from the more personal questions about your career goals and motivations to the more specific questions where an interviewer will ask you to describe a situation or example. If you’re applying to a research fellowship, your questions may be more focused on a specific type of research. For example, a medical fellowship interview questions and answers will be geared towards medical research and expertise. You can also expect some questions related to your past research, similar to thesis defense questions , so be sure to refresh your memory of your most notable research projects if you need to.

Next, we’ll cover a few of the different types of postdoc interview questions you can expect and what topics commonly come up in a postdoc interview.

These types of questions will be around your publications, research papers and research projects. Postdoc interviewers want to know whether you have the writing chops to go with the research expertise, and if you are well-versed in the publishing process. If writing is a weak point in your skillset, thesis writing services can help coach you on improving your research writing.  ","label":"Publishing and research questions","title":"Publishing and research questions"}]" code="tab1" template="BlogArticle">

If you\u2019ve been asked to prepare a postdoc interview presentation, read the instructions carefully and take your time to create a succinct and focused presentation. If you\u2019re not sure if a postdoc interview presentation is required, send a quick email to the interviewer to check the requirements. ","label":"Note","title":"Note"}]" code="tab2" template="BlogArticle">

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Additional postdoc interview questions

11. Tell us about yourself

12. What are your career goals? Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

13. Tell us about your research background to date, including publications and experience.

14. If you are successful, what would your proposed research direction be?

15. What are some examples of your strengths and weaknesses?

16. Can you give us an example of when you have shown initiative?

17. What kind of work environment do you prefer to work in?

18. What areas of research most interest you and why?

19. Describe a situation where you encountered difficulties and how you overcame them.

20. What are the main findings of your PhD?

21. What is your greatest accomplishment?

22. What interests you most about this postdoc position?

23. What is most important to you in a postdoc position?

24. Can you tell us more about your work history?

25. Have you ever had a leadership or management position in a research setting?

26. What are your postdoc research goals?

27. What research methods are you most familiar with?

28. Do you have any experience with grant writing?

29. How did you hear about this postdoc position?

30. Do you have any questions about this postdoc position?

The best way to prepare for a postdoc interview is to use mock interviews. Mock interviews essentially simulate the interview process, allowing you to prepare answers to common questions ahead of time and practice your interview performance beforehand.

Postdoc interview questions will typically fall into one of several categories: personal or background questions, questions about your experience and work history, questions about your skills and attributes or questions related to your expectations and the role you’re applying for.

Answering tell us about yourself can be tricky. Aim for 2 to 3 key points you want to address and keep it focused on who you are and why you’re interviewing for that position.

In general, you should dress formally in clean, business attire. Professional clothing is best for a postdoc interview.

Acing the postdoc interview is about demonstrating what you will bring to the position you’re applying for and what you will gain from it personally and professionally. Prepare answers to common postdoc interview questions ahead of time and practice your delivery with some mock interviews.

Some postdoc interviews will ask candidates to prepare a presentation, but not all. If you do need to prepare a presentation, it should focus on you’re a brief explanation of your background, research history and a summary of your PhD studies.

Postdoc interviews usually last around 30 minutes, but may take longer depending on the position and the interviewer.

In a postdoc interview presentation, you will typically introduce yourself, your experience and summarize your graduate studies.

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Postdoc Interview Preparation: Sample Questions and Answers to Ace Your Interview

Are you trying to prepare for an interview but not sure what sort of questions you’ll get asked? Check out our top 10 Postdoc interview questions to help you prepare.

Published May 9, 2024

I am a PhD qualified research professional with a strong background in Translational Medicine and Biomedical research. This has involved carrying out research into a variety of diseases including rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory lung disease, cancer and cardiovascular disease and drug allergy/hypersensitivity. I gained experience in laboratory and research management and now work in medical education regulation.

Your answers to the following postdoc interview questions are an opportunity to emphasize career goals, research background, and technical skills. Articulating one’s experience, potential research directions, and the ability to work in teams in your answers is important. Also aim to demonstrate leadership skills, initiative, and a strategic approach to career development to impress the interview panel and secure the postdoc position.

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The prospect of going into an interview for a life sciences postdoctoral position can be quite unnerving; however, in my experience, the same sorts of questions come up time and time again. So, it is highly worthwhile doing some preparation for potential postdoc interview questions. Doing this, as well as some investigative work into the research group and PI, can really give you the edge in securing that postdoc.

The following 10 questions are some that I have encountered multiple times during the job-hunting process. On a couple of occasions, the interviewing panel has forwarded the questions to me in advance. In such cases, there is no excuse not to have answers prepared.

10 Popular Postdoc Interview Questions

1. tell us about yourself.

This is a really common opener in interviews. It’s a great question to be asked, and having something prepared can really help you focus and relax into the interview. However, you need to make sure your answer is relevant to the position you’re interviewing for.

Start from your current or most recent position, whether you’re a PhD student or already a postdoc, and work back from there. You also want to briefly discuss where you see yourself going. What you say here might direct the next few questions.

It’s probably best to keep your answer professional, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t touch on your personal life if you think it’s relevant: Where did your love of science come from, for example? How did you end up in this field?

2. What is Your Career Plan? / Where Do You See Yourself in 5 Years’ Time? / What Are the Professional Goals You Are Seeking in this Position and How Will You Go about Seeking the Funding, Students, and Equipment to Achieve these Goals?

If you have applied for an academic postdoctoral position , you really need to get across that your aim is to become an independent scientist. You could start off with something like:

This position will allow me to build on my existing research skills and develop as an independent scientist by acquiring new techniques, additional project management skills, publications, and funding grants.

Then, expand on what you have achieved to date and how you would go about furthering your career, i.e., applying for research grants, assisting in student supervision, and gaining new publications.

3. What is Your Current Position and Your Research Background to Date, Including Your Publications and Your Experience in (Cancer) Research?

If you have been called for an interview, your CV/resume has already impressed the interview panel. The postdoc interview questions offer a chance for you to sell yourself and highlight the most relevant experience to the job in question.

You may have applied for a position in a field different from what you have worked in previously. For example, your PhD may have been carried out in an arthritis research group, but you have applied for a postdoc in a cancer group. The important thing is to focus on the similarities between the two fields of research. You could start by stating:

I haven’t worked for a cancer research group, but there are similarities between the processes that lead to the development of arthritis and cancer, such as angiogenesis, cell migration, cell invasion, and ECM degradation. I have extensive experience in studying these processes using various lab techniques.

4. What Specific Techniques Have You Used for Your Experiments to Date?

Answering this question requires a similar strategy as for the previous question. You may not have experience in all the laboratory techniques listed in the job description, but highlight the ones you do have experience in. For those who have little or no experience, highlight your technical ability and emphasize that you are highly capable of learning new techniques.

5. What Do You Understand about the Job Description / What Would Your Proposed Research Directions Be if You Were the Successful Candidate?

In your own words, summarize the details of the advertised postdoc. Follow on with some examples of how you would like to expand on the research and develop projects of your own within the group.

Focus on what you can bring to the group, i.e. experience in particular techniques not currently used within the group. Your prospective boss may wish to take advantage of your PCR skills and get the technique up and running in their group. Or is there an opportunity to set up a scientific special interest group ?

6. Have You Had any Experience Supervising Postgraduate Students? / How Can You Demonstrate Your Leadership Skills?

Don’t worry if you haven’t supervised a Master’s student from start to finish. List any experience. Discuss how you taught a summer student a technique or were the person in charge when your senior scientist was away at a conference. State that you have developed leadership skills over the course of your career and that you feel confident in leading projects.

7. Can You Work in a Group or Do You Prefer Working on Your Own?

This requirement can vary from postdoc to postdoc, so be careful when answering. A PI may need a postdoc who is happy to work autonomously on a specific project or an individual who can help lead and coordinate a team. Refer to the job description in your answer.

8. Can You Give an Example of When You Have Shown Initiative?

You could refer to the time you suggested setting up a dedicated molecular biology workspace in the lab or canvassing a science rep for a discount.

The panel might be interested in whether you can think creatively to solve particular problems or whether you’re happy to work independently. Again, you’ll need to tailor your answer to the particular postdoc.

9. What Are Your Best and Worst Qualities? / What Are Your Strengths and Weaknesses ?

Postdoc interview questions on strengths and weaknesses are highly likely, so they’re the kinds of questions you really want to think about. Bear in mind that it matters as much how you answer as what you actually say.

Be honest. If you know you struggle with presenting, or a particular technique, for example, admit it, but then discuss what you’ve done to address this. The committee is trying to learn about your personal qualities: Are you honest? Are you willing to learn? How well do you deal with feedback ?

10. What Additional Role Could You Play in the Lab/Department?

This is where you can outline why you, rather than anyone else the panel might be interviewing, are best for this job. What skills and qualities will you bring to the postdoc? Tailor this answer really closely to the role. Think about how you might complement/strengthen the existing team; are there any techniques that you’ve mastered that you can teach the lab?

At the end of the day, remember that you are interviewing the panel as much as they are interviewing you. You also need to think about any questions that you wish to ask the interview panel. This shows that you have done your research and that you are serious about the position.

Q: How can I effectively negotiate postdoc offers, including salary and benefits? A: When it comes to negotiating postdoc offers, including salary and benefits, it’s essential to approach the process with a clear understanding of the norms within your field and the specific institution. Gather information on average postdoc salaries and benefits in their discipline and region to have a benchmark. It’s also important to communicate your value and potential contributions to the team while being open to finding common ground with your potential employer. Negotiation is not just about salary—it can also include discussions about resources, equipment, conference support, and professional development opportunities. Q: How should I handle questions about long-term career plans, especially if I’m uncertain or considering paths outside of academia? A: Addressing questions about long-term career plans, especially if you are uncertain or considering non-academic paths, requires a nuanced approach. While you want to be honest, it’s also crucial to emphasize your commitment to contributing to the research and goals of the lab. You can acknowledge your interest in exploring diverse career avenues while highlighting how the skills and knowledge you will gain in the postdoc position are valuable across various sectors. This demonstrates your adaptability and long-term vision, which are usually attractive qualities to potential employers. Q: What are the expectations for postdocs regarding publishing and grant writing, and how can I demonstrate my potential to meet these expectations during the interview? A: Regarding expectations for publishing and grant writing, you should be prepared to discuss your previous experiences and future strategies. Demonstrating an understanding of the publication process, from conducting research to manuscript preparation and submission, is vital. Additionally, showing awareness of grant opportunities and expressing eagerness to learn and contribute to grant writing reflects your initiative and commitment to contributing to the lab’s success. Sharing specific examples of your involvement in these areas can provide concrete evidence of your capabilities and potential as a valuable team member.

We hope you found these sample questions useful and good luck in your interview!

What are your top tips for answering postdoc interview questions? What questions have you been asked in your interviews? Feel free to share them in the comments section below.

Originally published March 18, 2013. Reviewed and updated in December 2020 and April 2024.

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How to Find, Approach, and Interview Potential Faculty Mentors

Postdoc appointments at Stanford are initiated by an offer from a faculty member. Selecting the best faculty mentor requires thought and investigation. Consider the following guidelines:

Start with your research interests and career aspirations.

What are your research interests? Your career aspirations? What excites you in your research field? Can you identify a productive research area that fits your values and career plans? Who is engaged in research that is complementary to your interests? Do you have geographical limitations?

What kind of mentor best fits your needs?

Famous mentors have connections and resources but may travel a lot and have big labs. Up-and-coming mentors may be in the lab every day but may still be developing resources. Do you prefer hands-on guidance or a more removed mentoring approach? Are they nurturing? Is that important to you? Are they collaborative? Competitive? What kind of connections do they have in academia? In industry? Where have former postdocs from that lab ended up? Read their work and work from their lab widely and critically.

Approaching potential mentors:

Introduce yourself via a succinct cover letter or email.

• The story of your current research (question, approach, results, and significance)
• Your career goals, your plan to achieve them, and how a postdoc position in that lab fits into that plan
• Your postdoc project interests (be creative!) and proposed approach
• A description of how this collaboration is a great match

Preparing for the interview:

Read up on the field in general, read the last several papers from the group, and research their current interests and projects. Think about the lab’s ongoing work. Conceive of complementary projects that aren’t in their current inventory. Prepare a 30-minute talk in advance; in this talk make it clear why you did what you did and the foundation of that work. Be prepared to answer some hard questions - don’t be defensive; discussing and defending your work is part of the process.

Questions to ask current/past group members (be selective, the focus should be on your science):

About them: Ask about their science and the lab environment.

About the PI:

• Is the PI a micro-manager?
• How often do you meet?
• Are they available for guidance?
• Do they play favorites?
• Are lab meetings confrontational or supportive?
• How responsive are they with manuscripts and deadlines?
• How is authorship/project ownership handled?
• About opportunities: Are there opportunities to teach/mentor? Leadership development?
• About the lab environment: What is the lab work ethic? What is the time off with pay policy in practice? Is there encouragement/financial support to attend major meetings? Who represents the groups at department functions? Is there formalized, regular feedback? How long do postdocs usually stay?

Questions to ask the faculty mentor:

What are the mentor’s expectations of a postdoc? How is a postdoc’s research program determined? How many postdocs has the mentor had? Where did they go? How many others are in the lab (grad students, staff, etc.)? How many papers are being published, and where? What is the mentor’s policy on travel to meetings? Are there opportunities for practice in grant writing, teaching and mentoring, oral presentations, and reviewing manuscripts? How long is financial support guaranteed? On what does renewal depend? Are there adequate research funds to support the proposed research? What is the mentor’s approach to help in finding a next position? How are projects shared?

Adapted from John Boothroyd’s “Finding the Right Postdoc for YOU,” Preparing for Faculty Careers, and “Questions to Ask When Choosing a Postdoc Advisor,” Pathways to Science.

Other Resources:

• How to Find a Mentor and Lab (Stanford Biosciences)
• Advising and Mentoring : the value of multiple mentors (Stanford Biosciences)
• Quintessential Careers : how to find a good mentor
• Council of Graduate Schools : mentoring topics for each stage of training
• How to get the mentoring you want  (University of Michigan)
• How to obtain the mentoring you need : links to other resources and guides (University of Washington)
• Fellowships at Stanford
• Fellowships outside Stanford

Cornell University --> Graduate School

Office of postdoctoral studies, interview for academic positions, conference interviews, on-site interviews, academic mock interview questions, expect the unexpected questions.

• Questions to Prepare For

Questions that Might Catch You Off Guard

For some fields, the conference interview is a prerequisite for being invited to campus for an academic position. A conference interview is conducted by someone at a conference. This person may or may not be the person ultimately hiring you.

Conference interviews are typically brief (about 30 minutes) but may be longer, so do not schedule interviews back to back. Focus on conveying the important information you want this person to take back to the campus search committee. Also realize that this person may see you throughout the conference and may be observing you.

Those are intensive 1 to 2 day interviews, that will include a number of interviews types, one-on-one interviews, group interviews, research talk, teaching a class and social situations/meals.

The interviewer wants to know about your personal qualities, that you have the skills required for the positions, are able to get things done, can prioritize, overcome barriers, use time effectively, work as a team, resolve differences, share work and credit, and that you are an effective leader.

Preparing for the campus interview

• If asked to give a seminar, practice your talk
• Develop a cocktail party version of your research: the two minute sound bite
• Prepare to talk about your research, potential sources of funding, your goals, your teaching and yourself
• Know who everyone on your schedule is and what their area is
• Find out what research areas the department is emphasizing
• Know what you’re going to wear
• Think about how you’ll stay at the top of your form
• Before any interview, clarify all arrangements
• Practice interviewing
• Find out what courses the department needs you to teach

Before the campus Visit

• Assistant professors in the department
• Potential collaborators in other departments
• Graduate students in your area
• Female faculty from other departments

Don’t leave without understanding

• The tenure process, tenure criteria, and the tenure rate. Why was someone denied tenure?
• The teaching load
• The quality of your potential colleagues
• Expectations about research $$ and supporting grad students
• What are the strategic directions of the department?
• Ask Colleagues: If you could change anything about the department, what would it be?
• Why do you especially want to teach at Nameless College or University? How do you see yourself contributing to our department?
• What have you contributed to your field?
• What is your research about and how can it be applied?
• What are its implications?
• How is it relevant?
• What do you plan to work on next?
• What is the cutting edge in your field and how does your work extend it?
• Can you explain the value of your work to an educated layperson?
• What is your basic teaching philosophy?
• What courses would you like to teach if you had your choice? How would you teach them?
• Tell us how your research has influenced your teaching. In what ways have you been able to bring the insights of your research to your courses at the undergraduate level?
• We are a service-based state branch university with an enrollment of three zillion student credit hours per semester, most of them in the basic required courses. Everyone, therefore, teaches the service courses. How would you teach 101?
• Your degree is from Prestige Research University—what makes you think you would like to (or even would know how to) teach in a small liberal arts college?
• This is a publish or perish institution with very high standards for tenure review—what makes you think you would be able to earn tenure here?
• Are you connected? (If you were organizing a special symposium or mini-conference on your topic, which scholars could you pick up the phone to call?)
• How long do you really plan to stay? How does your family feel about moving to ???  If your spouse/partner is not moving, how will you handle the separation?
• You’ve seen our mission statement. How would you see yourself contributing to our mission and campus atmosphere?
• Is there anything that you are nervous about being asked?
• I don’t think you’ve accounted for the research of Holmes and Holmes. Aren’t you familiar with their model? I think it invalidates your main hypothesis.
• Unpublished research in my lab shows exactly the opposite effect. You must not have done the proper controls.
• I believe a simple non-linear equation explains all your data. Why have you wasted your time on such a complex model?
• (To the candidate) Well you didn’t even account for phenomena x. (Aside to the audience) How can all this research be valid if he/she didn’t account for x?
• How does this differ from the basic model that we teach in sophomore transport?
• It looks like you’ve done some interesting modeling. Is there an application of this work?
• What a wonderful little application. Is there any theoretical support?
• Those results are clearly unattainable. You must have falsified your data.
• You’ve done some interesting work, but I don’t see how it could be considered engineering. Why do you think you are qualified to teach engineering?
• Your work appears to be a complete replication of Holmes’s work. Just what is really new here?

Questions to Prepare for

One applicant was given these four topics in advance:

• Future research plans: What directions do you see your research taking in the next 5–10 years? What will be the topic of your first major research proposal as a new faculty member, and where will you submit it? What balance do you anticipate between field research and lab/office based research? If field work will be important, what field sites would you want to consider in the first few years?
• Education: Given our curriculum needs within the X group, how will you contribute to the undergraduate and graduate curricula? In particular, what graduate course(s) would you like to teach, and what will be your basic teaching model (e.g. lecture, lecture + lab, discussion, etc.)?
• Graduate and undergraduate research: How will you engage graduate and undergraduate students in your research program? That is, what style of advising/mentoring will you use?
• Resources: What critical resources do you need in order to establish a successful research program? What critical resources may already be here? What kind of help would you want from the X group, the department, and the University for you to achieve your goals?

From Everham & Smallridge, ESA Bulletin Dec 1994:

• What is the main point of your dissertation?
• What are your professional goals?
• What is your concept of teaching in a 4-year college as opposed to a research university?
• What specific research will you pursue if you are selected? How do you anticipate funding it?
• How has your experience and training prepared you to teach the courses required?
• What other courses might you teach?
• Why do you want this job?
• Why should we hire YOU?
• What strengths would you bring to the department?
• What would you expect from this department and administration?
• What kind of start-up funds, facilities, and equipment would you need?
• What experiences or interests do you have in college-wide activities and service?

From an underground primer by Peter Kareiva (UW–Seattle) and Dan Doak (UC–Santa Cruz):

• What research will you be doing when you show up here?
• What projects will you start next?
• Why would you want to come here?
• What teaching would you like to do?
• What is your philosophy of grad student training? How will you support students? What types of projects do you expect them to work on?
• What will you contribute to the department that is not already well covered by the faculty?
• What makes you think you could ever get any outside funding?
• What is the best idea you ever had?
• What do you do? (the 3–5 minute summary of your entire research agenda)
• Where do you see your work going in the next 10–20 years?

From an underground list of questions used by graduate students at the University of Arizona:

• What kinds of tools would be available in your lab for grad student use?
• In what areas do you think your work would uniquely contribute to this department?
• With whom in the department do you envision interacting the most? Outside the department?
• What meetings do you attend? What societies do you belong to?
• What do you envision as your ideal lab: # grads, undergrads, postdocs, techs, participation of grads who are not your own students?
• To what degree do you see integrating grad students into your research program?
• Is their work usually closely related to your research focus or is it fairly independent?
• How do you help grad students get started on a project?
• What’s your perspective on grad student funding?
• How would you respond to a student who is floundering (early vs. late)?
• What types of mentoring have you experienced—and what would you do similarly or differently?
• What courses have you taught before?
• What do you see as the major challenges of teaching at a large (small) university?
• What do you want to teach (grad, undergrad, seminars)? Statistics?
• The illegal questions: spouses, children, etc. For example: will anything need to be done for your spouse/partner (like find them a job)?
• Would you take this job if it were offered to you?
• How would you handle an interpersonal conflict in your lab?
• What happened in a break-up between two members of the lab who were involved?

How to Respond

If faced with a potentially discriminatory question during an employment interview, you are under no obligation to provide an answer. Be aware that such questions might be examples of stress questions, and you should be prepared to respond to them. Based on your personal preference and experience, you may choose to answer such questions briefly, but you should understand that volunteering such information may have negative consequences. Understanding the employer’s concern, however, might help you to structure a response.

Indirect Response

Address the employer’s underlying concern without directly answering the question. If an employer asks a question about your plans for marriage or family, the underlying concern is likely to be your ability to travel or to be at work during business hours, or your commitment to remain with the organization. Although you need not answer the question directly, you might acknowledge the employer’s concern and give assurance that your personal life will not interfere with your career responsibilities. Example: “I understand that you are concerned about my abilities to carry out the responsibilities of this position, and I assure you I will be able to.”

Direct Response

A more direct but less comfortable response is to mention your concern that the issue has no apparent bearing on your qualifications or ability to do the job. You may ask for clarification of the reason such information is requested or how it relates to the job discussed. Example: “It’s not clear to me why you are asking about this. Can you please explain?”

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Post Doc Interview Questions

• Thread starter Catnapped123
• Start date Dec 31, 2023

Catnapped123

• Dec 31, 2023
• Jan 3, 2024

For those who did postdocs, do you remember any interview questions that caught you off guard/ surprised you?  

Full Member

I interviewed for neuro postdocs, so it may be different, but the majority of my interviews were more conversational. I had a few PBI style questions, but the majority of the interviews were focused on discussing my goals and how they aligned with the site. As one of my mentors reminded me while I was preparing, they already know you’re qualified or they wouldn’t have invited you to interview. The interview is to get to know you and see how you fit together in terms of personality and work culture. I honestly wouldn’t stress too much. More and more people are opting for informal postdocs or VA graduate psychologist positions, so the postdoc application market really favors the applicants.  

Thank you so much for your response! This is super helpful to keep in mind.  

AcronymAllergy

Neuropsychologist.

• Jan 4, 2024

Like Psyduck90, I completed a neuro postdoc, so my experiences may or may not be applicable. But I've also been involved in postdoc interviewing, selection, and training for non-neuro fellows, and at least IME, there's a lot of overlap (other than that the neuro match is generally more structured). I don't remember specific questions, but as was said above, the interviews overall were more conversational and were also more about the site wanting to get to know my training interests and goals. There might be some of the standard, "tell me about a challenging patient," or, "tell me about a challenging situation involving a supervisor/peer" questions. And if it's a VA, at least a few PBI questions could certainly be fair game. But for the most part, the interviews mostly consisted of the TD/supervisors telling me about the site and asking questions about what I was looking for while on fellowship. Overall, although I enjoyed the internship interview process, fellowship interviews were much lower-stress and more fun (especially after getting through the jitters of the first one or two). For the few sites I went to that offered on-site interviews (most, back then, were at INS), I felt more like a junior colleague being sold on a site than I did a trainee interviewing for a position.  

Agree with what the other 2 poster said. I want to emphasize the advice that the market is tipped in favor of applicants rather than sites so while sites will likely have some standard clinical/teamwork/situational questions like internship interviews, the focus of the interview should actually be you interviewing the site and assessing for how they will (or won't) fit your training needs. Even the most 'average' of candidates who are applying broadly should have multiple options since postdocs aren't necessary in the way that internship is necessary while also paying significantly less than the typical unlicensed salary one could make so a site needs to make it worth your while. Hopefully your questions will help you avoid 'bad' sites such as ones that want you to be a cheap workhorse while not providing much in terms of training or development. Or a site dedicated to training but not in the areas that you'd like to grow in. So yes, be prepared to answer some basic questions like theoretical orientation and think in advance about a couple of complex cases that demonstrate your skills that you can talk about in a pinch. But make sure you have a nice long list of questions for them. Good luck!  

SomeGreatNotion

summerbabe said: But make sure you have a nice long list of questions for them. Click to expand...

foreverbull

Psychologist.

Common questions at postdocs (some of these may not be relevant for all sites, I compiled this from UCC postdoc questions): ➢ What attracted you to our site? ➢ Tell me about yourself. ➢ What are your strengths and weaknesses clinically? What do you want to specialize in? ➢ What is your theoretical orientation? ➢ What do you hope to learn here? ➢ Talk about a difficult or interesting case. ➢ Tell me about an ethical dilemma you’ve encountered and how you resolved it. ➢ Tell me how you handle conflict or give an example of this with a supervisor in the past. ➢ Clients you enjoy working with? ➢ Clients you struggle working with? —Career goals? —Almost every postdoc at a UCC gave a vignette of a client with a multicultural background with suicidal ideation and several concerns such as MDD, etc. What would I do first? How would I approach working with the client short-term and longterm? (Copied and pasted this from an old document from my postdoc interviews). Just as an aside, my several interviews for UCC postdocs were highly structured and most were actually not conversational at all. I was surprised at this. Non-UCC interviews I attended were more conversational.  

• Jan 5, 2024

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10 Questions to Ask During a Postdoc Interview

A good postdoc can kick-start your academic career so it is important that you choose a position that's right for you. To make the best choice, make sure that your leave your postdoc interviews with the answers to these 10 questions.

1. Will I able to take my postdoc project with me when I move on?

Many PIs have policies on research ownership and you should have a clear understanding of them before committing to a position.

2. What kinds of positions do your past postdocs now have?

This question is often considered the key metric for postdoc success. Look how many of the PI’s former postdocs have gone on to faculty appointments. A good postdoc supervisor is invested setting up their trainees for future academic success.

3. What is the institution’s postdoc policy?

Each institution has its own policies in regards to things like vacation, sick leave, and parental leave for its employees. Some even have strict term limits on postdoc positions or rules governing contract renewal. It is important to be aware of these policies before you commit to a postdoc position.

4. What do you expect of your postdocs?

This is a very broad question but a PI’s answer can be quite telling. On the surface they are telling you their expectations in terms of work hours, research output, number of publications, and fellowships. But you can also infer a lot from their answer about what kind of supervisor are and where their priorities lie. For example, do they care more about your productivity or the number of hours you work?

5. What sort of teaching or mentorship opportunities are available for postdocs?

As a postdoc, you are training to become a PI or professor. Teaching and mentoring are huge components of these jobs and, as such, a good postdoc position allows the trainee to gain more experience as a teacher and mentor. Postdocs in the humanities are often required to teach as part of their position, but it is equally important that STEM postdocs look for positions that offer similar opportunities.

6. What is your training plan for postdocs?

While a postdoc is no longer a student they are still a trainee. You want to be sure the PI acknowledges this and has a plan for your growth. Are there certain milestones they want you to hit? How often will they check in with you? Are there any professional development activities they want you to participate in?

7. How is the lab funded? How stable is the funding?

While a postdoc is a temporary position, it is still vital that the lab has secure funding for the duration of your postdoc. You will probably be encouraged to apply for external fellowships as well, however these often cannot be used to purchase research supplies or cover travel costs. Ask where the funds for these things will come from.

8. Does the lab/institution have funding for conferences or annual meetings?

Presenting at conferences is a crucial—and expensive—part of academic life. You will want to know if your conference expenses come out of your stipend/fellowship or whether the lab will reimburse you for these expenses. You should also ask if the university has supplementary travel funding that postdocs can apply for.

9. Can I talk to current students in the lab?

This question is more of a courtesy as most supervisors will expect that you will want to talk to their current or past student alone. However, if the PI say no that should be a huge red flag.

10. How does the lab handle authorship? How often do you publish?

A key goal of a postdoc in any field is to publish. As the position is usually for two to three years, there is some pressure to have multiple manuscripts in review, accepted, or published by the time you are looking for your next position.

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10 Tips for Acing Your Post-Doctoral Interviews

Before the Interview

1. apply to the right positions.

When you are deciding where to apply for your post-doc fellowship, there are a few things you need to take into consideration. You want to apply for positions that genuinely fit your interests and that are a good fit for you as a scientist. If the researcher you are applying to work with is not doing research in your field of study, you may want to consider looking for other options. Additionally, you want to be sure to apply to positions that are looking for someone with your experience and skill level. A general rule of thumb to use is to apply to safety positions, target positions, and stretch positions. You can read more about these categories of post-doc fellowships and more tips on choosing where to submit applications and find a detailed timeline and guide to applying for postdoctoral positions in our article “ A Detailed Guide to your Postdoc Application .”

2. Do Your Research

Once you apply for positions and start scheduling interviews, you need to do your research. This entails learning as much as you can about the PI that you will be working with and the research the lab is currently doing. You should also find information on the people who are working in the PI’s lab with him or her already and the department as a whole. Having an idea of what research is currently being conducted will allow you to better discern how you are a good fit and to advocate for yourself during the interview. This will also give you some great talking points to bring up and questions to ask during the interview day, but I will discuss more on this below.

During the Interview

3. dress the part.

The first impression you give to your interviewer and the department you wish to work in will make a large impact on whether or not you are offered a position in their lab as a postdoctoral fellow. While researchers do not generally dress professional when working in the lab, it is essential to wear business professional attire on your interview day. This will not only show that you are serious about the position, but will also boost your confidence throughout the interview process. However, dressing the part does not only refer to what you wear, but also refers to the demeanor you have during your talk and interview. As you know, a post-doc position is just one part of the pathway to becoming an academic scientist and teaching will be expected of you. You want to show your interviewers and audience that you will be an effective educator, which requires you carry yourself in a way that ensures your students you are confident in the material you are teaching. You can read more about effectively delivering talks in our article Public Speaking Dos and Don’ts – A Life Scientist’s How-To Guide .

4. Prepare to Answer Questions

While this might seem like an obvious preparation strategy, there are quite a few resources out there that you can use to help you prepare to answer the questions you are asked during your interview. There are a lot of online resources with typical interview questions. Here is a list of sample questions and answers provided by BitesizeBio specific for students doing post-doctoral interviews.

One question that is bound to be asked during the first moments of your interview is “tell me about yourself.” Having an idea of what you will say if and when this is asked can ease your nerves about the interview and ensure it starts off on a good note. Start by giving a brief introduction about yourself, where you are from, and by where you currently are in your career. Are you currently finishing your graduate degree or are you in another position? After you give a brief introduction, tell the interviewer(s) where you see your career going in the future and what goals you have for your career as a whole.

5. Ask Questions

What many post-doctoral position candidates fail to realize is that the interview process is not only about the lab determining if you are a good fit to work with them, but it is also about you figuring out if the PI and lab is a good fit for you and your career . What this means is that while you will be doing most of the question answering during the interview, you should also be asking questions to find out more about the lab, department, and people you will potentially be working with. Many times, questions will arise throughout the conversation and it is important that you feel comfortable to ask them. Sometimes, however, you may find yourself not knowing what questions and this may be partially due to your nerves. One strategy is to have an idea of questions that you can ask before you begin the interview. If you come up with other questions along the way, you don’t necessarily have to use your prepared questions, but you will have them in the back of your mind if you do need them.

Here are two sources you can use that provide a list of questions that may be important to you as you make your decision on where to complete your postdoctoral fellowship. This LinkedIn article provides a list of questions as well as some ideas on how to come up with questions on your own based on what you value in a position. Another source is this article from Nature Jobs that provides you with questions to ask that will help you narrow down the best-fit position for you and your career.

6. Give Your Best Talk

If you’re going to be giving a talk during your interview, you need to be amply prepared. According to one Reddit user who answered my question on best ways to prepare for your talk, you should be prepared to give it in any combination of circumstances—if you’re sleep-deprived, dehydrated, or anything else.

As part of your preparation , you should make sure your talk is well-organized. You will typically be presenting your current research project and will want to present it in a similar way as you would write a journal submission. Begin by stating the questions or problem your research sought to answer—what are your objectives? Then discuss background information and methods. You can follow it up with results, discussion, and conclusion. Be sure to address the significance of your research within your field. You can follow other outlines as well. For example, some people like to begin with the conclusions and then discuss how they got there. How you organize it is up to you, but make sure that it is organized in some way and that leaves you time for your audience to ask questions as the end.

Another Reddit user suggested making sure you have time to meet with the PI and lab members before giving your talk. This can help ease your nerves and get to know more about expectations and moods before you begin presenting your research.

7. Practice

Practicing for your interview is a great way to help calm your nerves and prepare yourself to make a great impression. A great resource you can look into for interview practice is mock interviewing. A lot of universities will have a career or employment center on campus that allows students to schedule free practice interviews where someone who has been trained in interviewing will interview you and provide you with feedback on how you did and ways you can improve before your actual interview comes around.

If your school does not offer this, partner up with someone else from your program who is also going through the interview process and take turns asking each other questions and providing each other with constructive criticism. You could also do this with a family member or friend if they are more accessible to you.

8. Get to Know the Department

While you are at your interview day, you will likely have a few opportunities to meet others who are working in the lab you are interested and in other labs in the department. Whether it is before or after your talk or during lunch, put in effort to get to know the people you may be working with in the future. While it isn’t a formal part of the interview, the PI will want to know that you can get along with the rest of his team and other colleagues you may end up working with during your postdoc fellowship. He may even ask their opinion of you after the interview is finished. Beginning to form a relationship with them by showing interest in their work and backgrounds can give you the extra boost you need to be offered the position that you want.

Also, it doesn’t hurt to make friends with others early. If you end up choosing to work at that university, you may need some advice on living in a new city and finding housing. The other team members can be a great resource.

After the Interview

9. don’t forget to follow-up.

Following up with a thank you email after your interview is important. It gives you an opportunity to thank the PI for your chance to interview as well as let him or her know how you are a great fit for the position now that you have learned more about it. If there was something you thought of after the interview that you wish you had mentioned, you can include it in the thank you letter as well. This email should be sent to the PI as well as anyone else who interviewed you within 24 hours.

10. Be Patient

After the interview is over and you have sent a thank you letter, be patient. The amount of time it takes for a lab to get back to you can vary depending on where they are in the interview process. If you were the first person they interviewed, it may be quite some time until you hear back, and if you were one of the last interviewees, you may hear sooner. Instead of worrying about when you will hear from the PI, focus on preparing for your next interview. Start researching the next lab and PI so that you can give each position your best impression.

Having a successful postdoctoral interview process is very important and following these tips will help you to paint yourself in the best light. Scheduling your interviews can also play a role in how you do at each one. If you’re really hoping to get a certain position, try not to make that your very first interview because you will be more comfortable and have more practice after you have one under your belt. Good luck!

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Top 25 Postdoc Interview Questions And Answers in 2024

Editorial Team

Congratulations! You’ve been invited for a postdoc interview. This is both an exciting and daunting time as you prepare to represent yourself in the best possible light. To make sure you are adequately prepared, it’s important to know the types of questions you will likely be asked.

To give you a leg up, we’ve compiled a list of the top 25 postdoc interview questions you should be prepared to answer. From questions about your research to how you handle difficult situations, these questions will help show the interviewer that you are the right fit for the position.

1. What Motivated You To Pursue A Postdoc Position?

As a highly motivated researcher, I pursued a postdoc position to develop my skills further, broaden my research experience, and contribute to cutting-edge research in my field.

I believe that a postdoc will allow me to work with leading experts in the field, access state-of-the-art facilities, and resources, and gain a deeper understanding of complex research problems.

Additionally, I am excited about mentoring students and contributing to the scientific community through publications and presentations.

2. What Are Your Research Interests, And How Do They Align With The Lab’s Current Research Projects?

My research interests lie at the intersection of [your research interests]. I was excited to learn that your lab’s current research projects focus on [lab’s research projects], which aligns perfectly with my research interests.

In particular, I am interested in [specific aspect of lab’s research projects], and I believe my skills and experience in [related skills or techniques] could make valuable contributions to the lab’s ongoing research efforts. I am eager to learn more about the lab’s work and collaborate with the team to advance the field.

3. What Are The Most Important Skills You Bring To The Position?

As a highly motivated researcher, I bring several key skills to this position. I have a strong background in [related skills or techniques], which I believe will be valuable for contributing to the lab’s ongoing research projects. Additionally, I am highly organized, detail-oriented, and skilled in managing multiple projects simultaneously. I also possess strong communication and interpersonal skills, which have been essential for effective collaboration with team members and mentoring students.

4. What Challenges Have You Faced In Your Previous Research Work, And How Did You Overcome Them?

In my previous research work, one of the challenges I faced was [specific challenge]. To overcome this, I [specific action taken to overcome challenge].

For example, during my doctoral research, I encountered unexpected results, which required me to revisit my experimental design and re-analyze the data. To overcome this challenge, I consulted with my advisor, collaborated with colleagues, and implemented novel statistical analyses.

Through this process, I gained valuable experience in problem-solving, critical thinking , and collaboration, which have been essential skills in my subsequent research projects.

5. How Have You Collaborated With Other Researchers In The Past, And What Did You Learn From Those Experiences?

Collaboration has been an integral part of my research work. In my past research projects, I have collaborated with researchers from diverse backgrounds, which has provided me with invaluable experience and learning opportunities.

Through these collaborations, I have learned the importance of effective communication , teamwork, and flexibility. I have also learned how to leverage complementary skills and perspectives to advance research goals.

For example, in one project, I collaborated with a team of scientists with different areas of expertise to develop a novel experimental design. This collaboration enabled us to achieve more significant individual results than we could have accomplished. I mentored a junior researcher in another project, which taught me valuable leadership and communication skills .

6. What Techniques And Methods Are You Proficient In?

I am proficient in several techniques and methods related to [specific area of research]. These include [list of techniques and methods], which I have utilized in my previous research projects. I have extensive experience in [specific technique or method], which has allowed me to [specific accomplishment or result].

Additionally, I have expertise in [related technique or method], which has been instrumental in [specific accomplishment or result]. I am also skilled in [another technique or method], which has been useful for [specific accomplishment or result].

7. What Specific Contributions Do You Think You Could Make To The Lab’s Research Program?

I believe that my talents and experience make me well-suited to make several contributions to the lab’s research program. Specifically, I could [list specific contributions]. For example, I could make [specific contribution], which would build on the lab’s previous work in [related research project].

Additionally, my expertise in [specific skill or technique] could allow me to [specific contribution] to ongoing research projects. Furthermore, I have experience in [related area of research], which could enable me to bring a new perspective and approach to the lab’s research program.

8. Can You Describe Your Previous Research Projects And Role In Those Projects?

I have played various roles in my previous research projects, ranging from team member to project lead. One example of a project I worked on was [specific project], where I was involved in [specific role].

In this project, I collaborated with a team of scientists to investigate [specific research question]. My responsibilities included [specific tasks or responsibilities], such as [list of duties]. I also contributed to developing the experimental design, data collection, analysis, and results interpretation.

In another project, I served as project lead, where I was responsible for overseeing the experimental design, managing the project timeline and budget, and mentoring junior researchers. These experiences have given me a broad perspective on research, strengthened my leadership, communication, and collaboration skills, and instilled in me a passion for scientific inquiry.

9. How Do You Stay Up-To-Date With The Latest Research In Your Field?

Staying up-to-date with the latest research in my field is crucial to my work. To accomplish this, I use a variety of strategies, such as attending conferences, reading scientific journals, and following leading researchers on social media platforms.

I also actively participate in research discussions with colleagues and attend seminars and workshops related to my area of research. Additionally, I am a member of professional societies and organizations, which provide opportunities to network, share research, and stay current with new developments in the field.

10. Can You Describe A Project That You Initiated And Developed From Start To Finish?

One example of a project I initiated and developed from start to finish was [specific project]. In this project, I was interested in investigating [specific research question], which had yet to be extensively studied in the literature.

To explore this question, I developed a research plan that involved [specific experimental design or methodology], which I refined through feedback from colleagues and mentors. I then conducted the experiments and analyzed the data using [specific analysis techniques]. The results showed [specific findings], which were novel and added to the current understanding of [related research topic].

After analyzing the results, I wrote up the findings in a manuscript and submitted it to a peer-reviewed journal. The manuscript was ultimately accepted and published, and the work was also presented at a conference. Overall, this project allowed me to take ownership of a research question, design and execute experiments, analyze the data, and disseminate the findings. It also helped me develop important skills in project management, communication, and scientific writing.

11. How Do You Manage Your Time And Prioritize Tasks In A Research Project?

To achieve this, I begin by setting clear objectives and timelines for the project. I then break down the project into manageable tasks and determine which tasks are most critical for achieving the overall goal. I use tools such as calendars, to-do lists, and project management software to keep track of tasks and deadlines.

In addition, I regularly communicate with my team and mentors to ensure that we are all on the same page and to get feedback and guidance on the project. I also allocate time for unexpected issues that may arise during the course of the project.

Lastly, I make sure to maintain a healthy work-life balance by scheduling regular breaks, exercising, and pursuing hobbies outside of work. This helps me stay focused and energized, which in turn helps me manage my time and prioritize tasks effectively.

12. Can You Relate A Time When You Had To Troubleshoot A Difficult Problem In The Lab?

One time I had to troubleshoot a difficult problem in the lab was during a project where we had trouble getting consistent results for a particular assay. Despite following the protocol correctly, the results were highly variable and did not meet our expectations.

To solve this issue, I first reviewed the protocol to ensure we used the correct reagents and equipment. I then consulted with colleagues and mentors to discuss the problem and obtain their input on possible solutions. We identified several potential issues, such as equipment settings variations, and adjusted accordingly.

I then conducted further experiments to test our changes and monitored the results closely. Through this iterative process, we identified the source of the variability and implemented a solution that resulted in consistent and reliable results.

This experience taught me the importance of being thorough, systematic, and persistent in troubleshooting difficult problems. It also reinforced the value of seeking input and advice from colleagues and mentors, being open to trying new approaches, and making adjustments until a solution is found.

13. How Do You Balance The Need For Perfection With The Need To Meet Project Deadlines?

Firstly, I ensure that I set realistic timelines for completing the project, with built-in flexibility to accommodate unexpected issues that may arise. I then prioritize tasks based on their importance and urgency, focusing first on the most critical components of the project.

Secondly, I believe that quality is more important than quantity. I always strive for excellence in my work, but I recognize that perfection can be time-consuming. Therefore, I prioritize quality over perfection, ensuring that my work meets the highest standards while remaining mindful of the overall timeline and project goals .

Finally, I have found that effective communication is key to managing this balance. I regularly communicate with my team and mentors to keep them updated on progress, discuss any challenges that arise, and obtain feedback and guidance as needed. This confirms that everyone is on the same page and that we can work together to make any necessary adjustments to meet project goals and deadlines.

14. Can You Discuss A Time When You Had To Work With A Difficult Collaborator Or Labmate?

In my previous research experience, I had to work with a labmate with a very different working style and approach to problem-solving than my own. This led to some communication and collaboration challenges, making it difficult for us to work effectively on a project.

To address this, I tried to understand their perspective and working style and to communicate clearly and transparently with them about my approach. I also found common ground and identify areas where we could work together effectively, such as dividing tasks and playing to each other’s strengths.

I also sought input from other labmates and mentors to obtain additional perspectives and guidance on improving our collaboration. Through these efforts, we established a more effective working relationship and progressed on the project.

This experience taught me the importance of adaptability, communication, and collaboration in research, particularly when working with people with different styles or perspectives. It also reinforced the value of seeking input and guidance from others when facing difficult collaboration challenges.

15. What Is Your Experience With Grant Writing And Securing Funding For Research Projects?

During my graduate studies, I had the opportunity to work on several grant proposals, both as a collaborator and as a lead writer. Through these experiences, I gained a strong understanding of the grant writing process, from identifying funding opportunities and developing a research plan to preparing a compelling proposal and engaging with reviewers.

As a lead writer on a successful grant proposal, I learned the importance of clearly articulating the significance of the research, framing the proposal in the context of current research and future impact, and crafting a strong narrative that resonates with the funding agency’s priorities. I also gained valuable experience in budgeting and justifying research expenses, as well as managing grant submission logistics.

16. How Do You Approach Data Analysis And Interpretation?

When it comes to data analysis and interpretation, I take a rigorous and systematic approach while also maintaining an open and flexible mindset that allows for unexpected results and insights.

First, I work to ensure that my data is well-organized and accurate and that any potential biases or confounding factors are accounted for. I then employ appropriate statistical methods and software to analyze the data, always double-checking my work and seeking input from colleagues or mentors when necessary.

Once the data has been analyzed, I focus on interpreting the results in the broader research question or hypothesis context. This involves looking for patterns, trends, and relationships in the data and considering alternative explanations for any unexpected findings. I also strive to identify any limitations or caveats in the data and to explore ways in which the findings might be further tested or refined in future research.

17. Can You Describe A Time When Your Research Led To Unexpected Results?

During one of my research projects, we investigated the effect of a particular drug on the growth of cancer cells. We hypothesized that the drug would inhibit the growth of the cells, but our experimental results showed the opposite – the drug was actually stimulating the growth of the cancer cells.

At first, we were all surprised and a bit perplexed by the results. But instead of dismissing them or forcing them to fit our original hypothesis, we decided to dive deeper into the data and try to understand what was happening. Through further experiments and analysis, we identified a previously unknown mechanism by which the drug affected the cancer cells and ultimately published our findings in a high-impact journal.

This experience taught me the importance of keeping an open mind and being willing to follow the data, even if it contradicts our initial assumptions or expectations. It also reinforced my belief in the power of scientific research to uncover new knowledge and push the boundaries of our understanding.

18. What Do You See As The Most Exciting Developments In Your Field?

As a researcher in the field of neuroscience, I find the recent advances in brain-machine interfaces and neuroprosthetics to be particularly exciting. The ability to decode and interpret neural signals in real-time has tremendous potential for developing new therapies and assistive technologies for people with disabilities or neurological disorders.

I am also interested in the growing trend toward using big data and artificial intelligence to analyze complex biological systems and uncover new patterns and relationships. This procedure can revolutionize how we think about and approach scientific research, and I am excited to be a part of this rapidly evolving field.

19. Can You Describe A Time When You Had To Explain Complex Scientific Concepts To A Non-Scientific Audience?

As a scientist, it is important to be able to communicate complex scientific concepts to a broad audience. One instance of this arose when I was invited to give a presentation about my research to a group of high school students who were interested in pursuing careers in science.

To make the content accessible and engaging, I used visual aids and analogies to explain the fundamental concepts in a way that was easy to understand. By breaking down the technical jargon and using relatable examples, I conveyed the excitement and importance of the research to the students.

It was a rewarding experience to see their curiosity and interest in the subject grow, highlighting the importance of effectively communicating scientific ideas to the wider community.

20. How Do You Handle The Stress And Pressure Of Research Deadlines And Responsibilities?

Research can be demanding and stressful at times, but I have found that maintaining a healthy work-life balance is key to managing this pressure. I make sure to take breaks when I need them, whether it’s going for a walk or engaging in a hobby outside of work. Additionally, I prioritize tasks and plan out my schedule to ensure that deadlines are met without sacrificing quality.

I also find it helpful to talk with colleagues and mentors about any challenges or stresses I am facing, as they can often provide valuable support and perspective. Ultimately, I believe that taking care of oneself both physically and mentally is crucial to being an effective researcher, and I make a point to prioritize my well-being as much as my work responsibilities.

21. What Are Your Future Career Goals, And How Does This Postdoc Fit Into Those Plans?

As a postdoc, my primary goal is to continue developing my research skills and expertise in my field. I believe that this postdoc position aligns well with my long-term career goals, as it provides an opportunity to work with top researchers in the field and contribute to important ongoing projects.

In the future, I hope to build on the skills and knowledge I gain during this postdoc to establish myself as an independent researcher and to make meaningful contributions to my field. I am excited about the opportunities that this postdoc will provide for me to further my research and establish important collaborations, and I believe that it will help me to reach my career goals more quickly and effectively.

22. Can You Discuss Your Experience With Mentoring Students Or Junior Researchers?

I have had the opportunity to mentor several undergraduate and graduate students during my doctoral research, as well as junior researchers in the lab. One particular experience that stands out to me was mentoring an undergraduate student who was new to the lab and had no prior research experience.

Over the course of several months, I worked closely with her to train her on the techniques we were using and to guide her through her project.

I found that taking the time to explain concepts in a way that she could understand and be patient with her questions helped to build her confidence and allowed her to make significant progress in her project. It was incredibly rewarding to see her grow as a researcher and to know that I played a role in her development.

23. What Steps Do You Take To Ensure The Reproducibility Of Your Research?

In my research, I take several steps to ensure the reproducibility of my results, including using standardized protocols and methods, maintaining detailed records of experimental procedures, and regularly validating and calibrating equipment. Additionally, I believe in the importance of open science and sharing data and materials with other researchers in the field, which can help promote transparency and facilitate the replication of findings.

24. Can You Discuss Your Experience With Scientific Writing And Publication?

I have authored several papers and have experience in scientific writing and publication. I understand the importance of communicating research findings clearly and concisely, and I have experience working with editors and reviewers to ensure that papers are accurate and meet the standards of the field.

I also have experience presenting research at conferences and have received positive feedback on my ability to communicate complex ideas effectively.

25. How Do You Balance The Need For Rigor And Reproducibility With The Need For Innovation And Creativity In Research?

As a researcher, I believe it is essential to balance rigor and reproducibility with innovation and creativity. While rigor and reproducibility are necessary to ensure that our findings are reliable and accurate, innovation and creativity are critical to advancing our understanding of the world around us.

I strive to maintain a balance between these two factors by being thorough in my methodology and experimental design while also exploring new and unconventional ideas that have the potential to lead to breakthrough discoveries. I also believe in seeking out diverse perspectives and feedback from peers to ensure that my work is both rigorous and innovative.

Conclusion 

Postdoc interviews are not only a great opportunity to discuss your research but also to test the fit between you and your prospective employer. As such, it is important to be prepared for any question that may arise.

The questions we have discussed here are among the most common and are often used by employers to assess a candidate’s personality and research abilities. Arming yourself with these 25 postdoc interview questions should help you to ace whatever postdoc interview comes your way.

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• Published: 14 May 2008

The postdoc interview

• Kryste Ferguson 1 &
• Ivonne Vidal Pizarro  

Nature volume  453 ,  page 424 ( 2008 ) Cite this article

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Consider asking these questions during your next postdoc interview.

The following questions should help you get the most out of your postdoc interview and, with luck, out of your postdoc experience as well.

• If the project is independent, will you be able to take it with you when the fellowship ends? Be wary of a 'conditional project' — if you take on project X first, you will get project Y.

• Will you be granted time to participate in a postdoc council, take courses, learn new technologies, improve communication skills, and so on? Does the mentor/principal investigator (PI) have funds for attending scientific meetings?

• How is authorship handled? How often and where does the lab publish?

• Where is the mentor along the tenure-track timeline? Senior PIs with productive track records are safer. But junior faculty members may be more eager to get more publications out.

• Will the mentor help you apply for small grants or fellowships? How stable is the current funding?

• Is your potential mentor receptive to collaborations with other labs?

• How are research supplies acquired and financed?

• Will you be able to meet lab members to talk freely about the lab and the mentor? A PI's pledges in the courtship phase might change once a commitment is made.

• Can you contact lab alumni? If so, ask them for the five best and five worst things about working with the mentor.

• Is productivity more important than the number of hours you work?

• What is the vacation schedule? Is there sick time? Is there a maternity/paternity policy or leave?

• Does the mentor hold regular lab or individual meetings? An individual development plan helps answer these questions in a written, contractual format.

• Does the institution have a postdoc policy? If so, read it in detail. Are there postdoc term limits?

• Does the institution have a postdoc office or association? If so, does it review all the offer letters to ensure the terms and stipend levels are fair?

If you walk away thinking, “If I could change one or two major things, it would be great”, then keep on walking. Reflect on the interview, talk to your mentors, and trust your gut.

Author information

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Kryste Ferguson is an academic coordinator at the University of Pennsylvania's Office of Biomedical Postdoctoral Programs.,

Kryste Ferguson

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Ivonne Vidal Pizarro is a programme administrator at the American Association for Cancer Research. Reprinted by permission of the Society for Advancement of Chicanos and Native Americans in Science.

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Ferguson, K., Vidal Pizarro, I. The postdoc interview. Nature 453 , 424 (2008). https://doi.org/10.1038/nj7193-424b

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Published : 14 May 2008

Issue Date : 15 May 2008

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1038/nj7193-424b

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Interviews should differ from tooth extractions: they ideally should be neither painful, nor a struggle.

Please note: If you need a quiet space to conduct a phone or a virtual interview, There are 3 chat rooms in the Cabot Science Library in the Science Center, which you can reserve through Room Book: https://roombook.harvard.edu/ (Further information is available here .)

General Interview Advice:

• Preparing for First-Round Academic Interviews , Laura Stark, Mignone OCS
• A Magic Guide to Interviewing for the Job You'll Luv.  On the Interview Process Itself.  (Lots of good advice here, but I don't know the author!)
• Interview questions . More  interview questions . And actual questions asked of former postdocs.
• Preparing for an Academic Job Interview : FAQs for on-site and phone interviews
• Interviewing for Faculty Jobs : Advice from Alan Tessier
• Strategies for a Successful Interview , Melissa Dennihy, Inside Higher Ed