Can you provide an example of a time when you had to adapt to changes in a research project?

Sample answer to the question

One time in a research project, we had to change the experimental protocol midway due to unexpected results. I was responsible for designing and executing PCR experiments to amplify specific DNA sequences. When the initial results didn't align with our hypothesis, our team decided to change the primers and optimize the PCR conditions. I quickly adapted by researching new primer designs and consulting with senior scientists. I recalibrated the PCR conditions and successfully amplified the target DNA sequences, leading to more reliable data for analysis.

A more solid answer

In a research project, I encountered a situation where we needed to adapt to unexpected changes. We were investigating the effects of a specific gene on cell growth, and our initial experiments showed no significant differences between the control and experimental groups. Realizing the need for a change, I took the initiative to review the experimental procedure and consulted with my colleagues and supervisor. After analyzing the data, we identified potential issues with the cell culture conditions and decided to modify the growth media and culturing techniques. I meticulously carried out the revised experiments, meticulously tracking the changes made and documenting the results. The modified protocol yielded meaningful results, clearly demonstrating the impact of the gene on cell growth. This experience taught me the importance of adaptability, problem-solving, attention to detail, and effective collaboration within a research team.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer expands on the basic answer by providing additional details on the candidate's problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and collaboration. The candidate demonstrates taking initiative, analyzing data, and proposing changes to the experimental procedure. They also emphasize meticulous execution and documentation, which aligns with the job description's requirement of strong attention to detail. However, the answer could further highlight the candidate's communication skills in collaborating with the team and effectively presenting the revised protocol.

An exceptional answer

During a research project, I encountered a significant change that required both adaptability and strong problem-solving skills. We were studying the impact of a specific gene mutation on protein expression in human cells. Midway through the project, our initial cell line was contaminated with another cell type, leading to skewed results. Recognizing the need for immediate action, I collaborated with my colleagues to develop a corrective plan. We decided to obtain a new cell line and adapt our experimental procedures accordingly. This involved revising the cell culture protocol, optimizing transfection conditions, and performing stringent quality control checks. I took the lead in coordinating these changes, ensuring smooth execution and minimal disruption to the project timeline. The revised experiments successfully yielded reliable data, allowing us to draw accurate conclusions about the gene mutation's effects on protein expression. This experience underscored the importance of adaptability, decisive problem-solving, attention to detail, effective collaboration, and leadership in successfully navigating unexpected challenges in research projects.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes beyond the solid answer by providing a more complex and challenging scenario in which the candidate had to adapt to significant changes in a research project. The candidate describes encountering contamination in the cell line and takes a proactive approach in collaborating with the team to devise and execute a corrective plan. The answer highlights the candidate's leadership skills in coordinating the changes and ensuring minimal disruption. Additionally, the candidate emphasizes the impact of their adaptability, decisive problem-solving, attention to detail, effective collaboration, and leadership in overcoming the challenges. This answer aligns well with the job description's requirements for adaptability, problem-solving, collaboration, and working as part of a dynamic research team.

How to prepare for this question

Review your past research experiences and identify instances where you had to adapt to changes in a project.
Think about the specific steps you took to address and overcome the changes.
Highlight your problem-solving skills and attention to detail in the example you choose.
Consider examples that involve collaboration with team members and demonstrate your ability to work well in a research team.
Practice articulating your example in a concise yet comprehensive manner.

What interviewers are evaluating

Adaptability
Problem-solving
Attention to detail
Collaboration