JUNIOR LEVEL

Please describe a scenario where you had to troubleshoot a problem with research equipment. How did you handle it?

Sample answer to the question

Oh, there was this one time when the mass spectrometer in the lab started acting up. I remember it was a crucial time since we had a batch of samples that needed analyzing for my thesis research on nanomaterials. I honestly just went through the checklist of common problems, you know, recalibrating, cleaning the components, and rebooting the system. Eventually, after fiddling with it for a bit, I found that there was a firmware update we had missed. Once that was installed, things went back to normal. It's all part of the work in a research lab, I guess.

A more solid answer

In one particular instance, our high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) machine was producing inconsistent results, which was critical given the tight timeline we had for submitting a paper on the synthesized polymers' properties. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, I collaborated with my colleague to conduct a thorough investigation of the issue. We dissected the machine's log files and ran diagnostic tests to identify irregularities. After several controlled test runs, we discovered that the inconsistency was due to an outdated analysis algorithm. I took the initiative to write a new script using Python to rectify the algorithm and recalibrated the machine accordingly. In the end, we managed to get accurate results just in time for the submission, thanks to a concerted effort.

Why this is a more solid answer:

This solid answer provides a glimpse into how the candidate used their technical and analytical skills to troubleshoot an issue. However, it could further highlight other areas like technical writing and detail time management strategies during the process. Although it shows an instance of collaboration and critical thinking, it lacks details on the procedural aspect and how the candidate ensured proper documentation.

An exceptional answer

I recall a complex situation where our 3D bioprinter malfunctioned during a critical phase of scaffold development for tissue engineering research. I approached the problem methodically, first by reviewing the operating manual to understand the potential error codes. Collaborating closely with my mentor and consulting with the manufacturer's technical support, we traced the issue to an incorrect configuration file that was inadvertently installed during a recent software update. Leveraging my programming skills, I edited the XML configuration file to rectify the erroneous parameters and restored the equipment to full functionality. Notably, I documented every step of the troubleshooting process meticulously, which was later included in our team's standard operating procedures (SOP). This experience not only helped me refine my problem-solving and collaboration skills but also underlined the importance of maintaining a comprehensive log, which is instrumental for technical writing and data analysis.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

This exceptional answer elaborates on a specific scenario and showcases how the candidate adeptly applied their knowledge and skills, reinforcing their suitability for the role. It covers all the evaluation areas by highlighting collaboration, technical writing, critical thinking, and familiarity with programming. The answer also emphasizes the importance of maintaining documentation, aligning well with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.

How to prepare for this question

Reflect on specific instances where you've troubleshooted equipment issues and be prepared to discuss the technical steps you took to resolve them.
Understand key responsibilities from the job description such as collaboration, technical writing, and data analysis, and think about how your past experiences align with these.
Prepare to detail how you've documented troubleshooting processes in the past and how this contributes to your technical writing skills.
Consider discussing any programming or software skills that proved beneficial in resolving equipment issues, particularly if they align with research software mentioned in the job description.
Refresh your understanding of the research methodologies you've used and be ready to explain how they have helped you in troubleshooting and problem-solving situations.

What interviewers are evaluating

Technical writing
Data analysis
Critical thinking
Collaboration
Time management
Familiarity with programming languages and research software