How do you prioritize tasks when you have multiple pending deadlines?

Sample answer to the question

When I have multiple pending deadlines, I start by making a list of tasks in order of importance and urgency. I consider the consequences of missing each deadline and prioritize accordingly. For instance, at my last job, I had to prepare slides for a presentation while also running some lab tests that were time-sensitive. I chose to start with the lab tests because they needed to incubate, and while they were incubating, I worked on the slides. It helped me hit both deadlines efficiently.

A more solid answer

When faced with multiple deadlines, I systematically assess each task's impact and requirements before prioritizing. For example, while working on a project that required data analysis and lab work, I would use the critical path method to identify which tasks were dependent on others. Understanding that data analysis could delay subsequent stages of lab work, I prioritized it first. During my Masters, this technique allowed me to balance experiments requiring different incubation periods with computational work. I was adept at switching tasks when waiting for results, always planning ahead to use time efficiently, and ensuring no part of the process was a bottleneck. Timeliness and scientific rigor were maintained throughout.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer improves by incorporating a specific strategy like the critical path method, which aligns with the job's need for strong scientific and technical aptitude. It demonstrates the candidate's ability to multitask and meet deadlines through careful planning and awareness of task interdependencies. Mentioning experience with balancing lab work and computational tasks during a Master's program illustrates organizational skills and attention to detail. Still, the candidate can further emphasize their methodology for managing complex datasets and decision-making processes.

An exceptional answer

Prioritizing tasks amidst multiple deadlines is a skill I've honed through my academic and early career research experiences. I employ a multifaceted approach by initially gauging each task's strategic importance in the context of the project's goals, then mapping out interdependencies using project management tools like Gantt charts or the critical path method. For example, during my Master's thesis, I juggled data collection, analysis, and manuscript preparation. Recognizing the data analysis was pivotal and time-consuming, it took precedence. I then interspersed equipment calibration and maintenance, ensuring no downtime. Leveraging my proficiency in data analysis software, I streamlined the data interpretation process while running parallel experiments when feasible. I also held weekly progress reviews with my supervisor, which allowed me to recalibrate priorities as needed. This methodical approach ensured adherence to deadlines without compromising the integrity and quality of the research, reflecting my strong organizational skills, technical aptitude, and detail-orientation.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

This exceptional answer provides a comprehensive approach to prioritizing tasks, suitable for a Research Scientist. It highlights the candidate's use of project management tools and a systematic evaluation of tasks in the context of project goals, demonstrating a high level of organizational skills and strong scientific aptitude. By detailing the integration of data analysis software to streamline processes, the candidate showcases their technical expertise. Mentioning collaboration with supervisors for progress reviews adds depth, showing a proactive and conscientious attitude. The commitment to quality and integrity in research is explicitly tied to meeting deadlines and underscores the candidate's suitability for the role. It is thorough in addressing the key evaluation areas, leaving less room for improvement in the context of the job description.

How to prepare for this question

Think about past experiences where you had to juggle multiple tasks with differing levels of complexity and deadlines. Outline specific methods or tools you used to prioritize your work, and be ready to discuss how they impacted your efficiency.
In anticipation of discussing organizational skills and attention to detail, prepare examples that demonstrate your ability to maintain meticulous records and manage large datasets, tying in how this impacted your research outcomes.
Reflect on occasions when your technical skills, particularly with laboratory equipment and data analysis software, allowed you to work more efficiently and meet tight deadlines. Be ready to explain how these skills will benefit you in a fast-paced research environment.
Since the ability to multitask and prioritize effectively is key for this role, consider how you've adapted to changing priorities in the past. Be prepared to give examples of how you've recalibrated your tasks in response to new information or project demands.
Make sure to explain how your prioritization process not only helps you meet deadlines but also upholds the scientific rigor and integrity of your research. This demonstrates your commitment to quality, a critical aspect of the Research Scientist role.

What interviewers are evaluating

Ability to multitask and meet deadlines
Organizational skills and attention to detail
Strong scientific and technical aptitude