What are the questions asked in a postdoc interview? (as a PhD)

Summary

This video discusses common questions asked during postdoc interviews, particularly those conducted via online platforms like Zoom or Skype. It provides insights into how candidates should introduce themselves professionally, summarize their PhD research, and explain their interest in working with specific research groups. The speaker emphasizes aligning personal research with the host group, detailing research proposals, and addressing facility requirements. Practical advice is given on handling provocations during interviews and mastering the technical aspects of virtual meetings, such as maintaining good body language and eye contact.

Takeaways

• 😀 Interviews for postdoc positions are often held via Zoom, Skype, or Teams, and can involve one-on-one or panel formats.
• 🤓 A common question asked is to 'Tell us more about yourself,' but the focus should be on your professional background, research philosophy, and future career goals.
• 📚 When asked about your PhD work, you should summarize what you did, why you did it, and the key findings that are significant to the research community.
• 🔍 A frequent question is 'Why do you want to work with us?' where you should explain how your research aligns with or complements the group's work.
• 🛠 If your research proposal is discussed, outline the research goals, potential discoveries, timeline, facilities needed, and how your research will impact the group and your career.
• 🧑‍🔬 Make sure the host university has the necessary facilities for your research, especially if you're an experimentalist, and tailor your proposal to what they offer.
• 🌍 If asked why you want to work in a specific country or university, your answer should be professional, focusing on access to unique expertise or resources unavailable at your current institution.
• 🗣 Be prepared for provocation tactics during the interview, where interviewers might challenge the value of your research to gauge your passion and commitment.
• 📹 In Zoom or virtual interviews, ensure you present yourself professionally, maintain good body language, and practice looking at the camera to simulate eye contact.
• 🙌 Stay professional, courteous, and detached throughout the interview, showcasing your dedication to research without becoming overly defensive or emotional.

Q & A

What is one of the first questions typically asked during a postdoc interview?

One of the first questions is usually an icebreaker, asking the candidate to tell more about themselves from a professional perspective. The interviewer wants to hear about the candidate’s research journey, key problems they are solving, and their future career plans.

How should candidates summarize their PhD work in an interview?

Candidates should focus on summarizing their PhD in three sentences: what they did, why they did it, and what findings are significant for the research community. Drawing from the PhD thesis abstract can help in crafting this summary.

Why is it important to research the group or university you are applying to for a postdoc?

It’s important to demonstrate a professional reason for wanting to work with a particular group. This involves showing how your research complements their work or contributes to their goals. Researching their published papers and current projects helps you make a strong case.

What are two strategies to answer the question: 'Why do you want to work with us?'

One strategy is to show that your research aligns with the group's work and that you can contribute to their ongoing projects. The second strategy is to highlight complementary skills you bring, such as being a theoretician in a group of experimentalists or having expertise in machine learning while the group focuses on simulations.

How should a candidate approach discussing their research proposal during a postdoc interview?

Candidates should explain why the research is important, what key discoveries they expect, the timeline for the project, and the potential publications. It’s also important to discuss how this research will impact both the candidate’s academic journey and the research group.

What should a candidate do if they require specific facilities for their research during a postdoc?

Candidates should identify the facilities they need and ensure that the group or university has those capabilities. If the necessary resources aren't available, it’s better to reconsider the postdoc opportunity rather than face potential failure later.

How should a candidate handle the question: 'Why can’t you do this research at your own university?'

The answer should focus on professional reasons, such as access to specific knowledge, expertise, equipment, or facilities not available at the candidate’s home institution. The response should not be personal, like wanting to visit a foreign country.

What should candidates expect if they are provoked or challenged during an interview?

Provocation is often used to assess how strongly a candidate defends their work and how committed they are to research. A candidate's passionate yet professional defense of their PhD or proposal can show dedication and seriousness.

What are some tips for presenting yourself well in a Zoom or online postdoc interview?

Candidates should dress professionally, maintain good body language, and look directly into the camera to create eye contact. Practicing a mock interview and checking how you appear on camera can help improve performance.

What is one mistake that candidates often make during postdoc interviews?

A common mistake is focusing too much on oneself and not enough on the research group. Candidates should avoid overly discussing their personal achievements and instead highlight how they can contribute to the group’s research goals.