A postdoc (highest education degree) is often referred to as postdoctoral fellows, research fellows, associate researchers, etc. Answering tell us about yourself can be tricky. Lastly, be sure to come prepared with a list of postdoc interview questions to ask your interviewer afterwards! Pursuing a postdoc is a career decision in and of itself, and you should approach it with intention in order to find the best fit and derive the most benefit. My professor guided me to include our literature review and project narrative. some of the disadvantages of doing a postdoc. What kind of work environment do you prefer to work in? Should I Do postdoc. 6. I believe setting clear expectations and shared goals contributes to putting everyone in sync and on the same page. Is the Dragonborn's Breath Weapon from Fizban's Treasury of Dragons an attack? I like to consider any and all potential avenues without ruling anything out. 13. To find the right fit for our needs and qualifications, I made a draft for our abstract and needs statement. PhD consultants or your grad school advisor can be good places to look for help with preparing for the postdoc interview. A common assumption is that PhDs hold a postdoctoral position in an educational research institution to improve their research and reputation skills, which increases their chances of achieving the ultimate goal: Academic Appointment. I am ambitious and proactive and want to work in an environment that provides more learning and growth opportunities. My advisor, in their feedback, often mentioned that I dont give up easily and I always look for another way, which is quite true. This golden opportunity is the right time for me to widen my research interest, strengthen my research skills and broaden an international networking as well as research collaboration. Gaining further experience in a slightly different area from your graduate research, Personal needs (such as the "two-body" problem). Adds experience to your resume/CV. 30. Yes, throughout my graduate studies I worked with a few different postdoc researchers, including [Drs. Your aim in preparing for postdoc interviews is to be well prepared and confident, but dont over-rehearse your answers. The best way to prepare for a postdoc interview is to use mock interviews. However, you actually don't need a postdoc for some professorial jobs if your experience and publication history match the institution's needs. What skills and qualities will you bring to the postdoc? Thanks! I value the reality that you provide chances for your research assistants to participate in multiple projects, which is an excellent opportunity for career development. Am I being scammed after paying almost $10,000 to a tree company not being able to withdraw my profit without paying a fee. It is also important to remember that a postdoc itself is not a career goal. If you have been called for an interview, your CV/resumehas already impressed the interview panel. I am flexible in terms of the funding I have applied for and the direction of my research. Try to speak confidently in the interview. Doing this, as well as some investigative work into the research group and PI, can really give you the edge in securing that postdoc. 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. Postdocs allow former students to continue conducting their research, grow their careers in academia and gain skills and experience relevant to their field of study. Listen to one of our scientific editorial team members read this article.Click here to access more audio articles or subscribe. Their lab undertook similar work to this position, though not as specialized. Research Interest Statement for Faculty Positions. What are the main findings of your PhD? indicate that you are interest in applying for the postdoctoral position or ask if there is an . If you are a university, business, or student organization representative and want to partner with us, visit our partnerships page. 1. What you say here might direct the next few questions. Thinking that you are only qualified for an academic position - wrong. The thing is, non-tenure-track researchers are cheaper, and require less commitment. It also shows that you understand Shopify's tech stack and how your skills and prior experience could help. An idea about this question earlier before going to the interview will help you to answer the employer, displaying professionalism and readiness quickly. Because very likely you won't be able to get any better (academic) job than that. Interviewing processes vary widely and often include a visit to the research group where the postdoctoral candidate will most likely: Meet with the principal investigator. A postdoc does give you an opportunity to submit more publications and further develop and develop many skills that would be beneficial to an academic position. All things being equal, it seems that the decision to do or not do a postdoc depends mostly on your desire to stay in the academic world in the long run. Bear in mind that it matters as much how you answer as what you actually say. The skills and experience I will gain in postdoctoral research will be a prominent mark in my future applications for faculty positions. If you are successful, what would your proposed research direction be? Why Did You Apply For This Postdoc Position? their department as staff, meager salaries, specific tasks, and job 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. 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. Mock interviews are close facsimiles of the real interview, so this is one the best preparation methods. When explaining why you want this job, your answer should reflect your enthusiasm for both the work as well as the company. But I suspect the main thing that's happened is just that more people have been going to college and grad school, and although the supply of research jobs expanded exponentially, the expansion in demand was a faster exponential. Moreover, your lab methods, experienced mentors, and fundraising strategies are worth mentioning. Applications should demonstrate the added value of the grant for the applicant's career and the value of the applicant's expertise for WUR. Therefore the applicant should. You have entered an incorrect email address! It was a great experience to work in a lab and connect with the best project from its beginning to its publication. Note: If you want us to help you with your applications, interviews and/or standardized tests, book a free strategy call. Among many options like searching for scientific or academic jobs, a postdoc is one of the apparent preferences. Postdoc interview questions on strengths and weaknesses are highly likely, so theyre the kinds of questions you really want to think about. Some people will give you a run-around about the papers you MUST have to get a good postdoc (as above), and that's a bunch of nonsense. The postdoc interview questions offer a chance for you to sell yourself and highlight the most relevant experience to the job in question. Reviewed and updated on December 16, 2020. How Would Your Faculty Advisor From Your Doctorate Program Describe You? By using our website, you agree with our cookie policy. Luxembourg, Leuven, We are so glad you are interested in joining Sutter Health!OrganizationCPMC-California Pacific MedSee this and similar jobs on LinkedIn. 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. Focus on the job at hand. Posted 3:55:31 PM. You mean if someone who wants to work in the industry, post-doc is not a good option? ask my view then I will suggest you to try to get postdoc position if you have 2013- BeMo Academic Consulting Inc. It is not uncommon to find people doing multiple post docs, or people finding themselves in a permanent post doc (or research scientist) position. But to choose Postdoc is totally on your personal interest rather than necessary carrier step. 17. Its probably best to keep your answer professional, but that doesnt mean that you cant touch on your personal life if you think its relevant: Where did your love of science come from, for example? You could refer to the time you suggested setting up a dedicated molecular biology workspace in the lab or canvassed a science rep for a discount. Perfectly written and very helpful. brevity of contracts. Is Koestler's The Sleepwalkers still well regarded? I have worked with them for several years, and we know each other well. No, it's not like a second PhD, because there's little to no documented requirements, no thesis, no defense, no coursework, etc. How your experience and goals align with the position. As a PhD you have the skills employers want and doing a additional postdocs or internships is completely unnecessary. It should really be referred to as the "normal track" for employment of academics. Our site uses cookies. Still, I did not feel prepared to take on such a big responsibility. the serious benefits, you should also consider the flip side: doing a post-doc But you typically don't have the obligation to write grants and "bring in" money. Stack Exchange network consists of 181 Q&A communities including Stack Overflow, the largest, most trusted online community for developers to learn, share their knowledge, and build their careers. I am familiar with the methods and procedures of your lab. You can say that the learning curve for you had flattened and you wanted to learn more. Also, post-docs who are unable to obtain an academic position often become overqualified for jobs in the industry, while losing higher alternative pay (wages in the sector) and often putting their personal lives (marriage, children) jeopardy. Here's a guide to writing one. What does a search warrant actually look like? Stress Management Strategy: 20 Simple Ways That Are Actually Effective, Explain your research paper in a simple way with Researchersjob, What is The Meaning of Letter of Intent? The committee are trying to learn about your personal qualities: Are you honest? They asked me to take over the project, assign tasks and manage the team for the first time. The structure above is still valid; however, you will need to add long-term goals (5+ years). This would show your willingness to learn and implement new skills. I reviewed the final draft with other faculty members and helped to complete the suggested edits before submitting our final grant proposal. My career goal is to lead research teams in the future. Debating between a MD and MD-PhD? Belgium, Stockholm, As others have pointed out, there are too many qualified applicants for too few positions. for NIH staff; The requested ad has expired or been removed. Now, it's true that it's customary to spend time in such a position, and in many academic institutions tenured position candidates are considered to be inadequate if they have not first had a stint (or two) as non-tenured "post-docs" somewhere - but there's no fundamental principle at work here. Postdocs play a crucial role in the university; they supplement the research . I want to fill the gaps in my technical education and experience. Remember, you're not going there "To get a job." You're going there to meet your colleagues. they are usually trying to assess the following: How well you understand the position and its duties. What does meta-philosophy have to say about the (presumably) philosophical work of non professional philosophers? Expands your publication record. In the final year of my Ph.D., I prepared a grant with my professor to secure funds for a research project. What it's meant to accomplish is to be the transition period where you start to view yourself (and the field starts to view you) as an independent researcher. You can submit several journal articles based on your doctorate, several grant applications, and possibly collect data for future publications. 22. They thought my research background was a good fit for your program and knew I was looking to move to the area. Theoretically Correct vs Practical Notation. 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. I want to extend my knowledge of research disciplines under the supervision of a principal investigator (PI) or mentors with the academic and transitional postdoc. I also want to change the focus of my research and add more experience to my resume. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. How Would You Describe Your Ideal Work Environment? I have extensive experience in studying these processes using various lab techniques. What are some examples of your strengths and weaknesses? I learned to classify most procedures as either qualitative, quantitative, or mixed, which uses practices from both. You also need to have a think about any questions that you wish to ask the interview panel. 21. A PI may need a postdoc who is happy to work autonomously on a specific project or they may need an individual who can help lead and coordinate a team. Applying to faculty positions requires a bit more detail and sometimes the research interest statement has a precise length (2-5 pages). I, personally, have been benefited much. Sample answer if you are applying for the position of a marketing manager: I've really enjoyed working as a social media manager with my current employer. First, you don't need to have a postdoc. Maybe, but lack of bargaining power of post docs is not the reason. So what *is* the Latin word for chocolate? I could conduct teaching classes or seminars to develop the next generation of scientists. So, it is highly worthwhile doing some preparation on potential postdoc interview questions. As a postdoc, you will be in a more senior position in the lab and will be expected to actively contribute your expertise. You may also be asked to prepare a postdoc interview presentation. Understand what postdocs are. Your first reason should always show fit in terms of professional skills: "I'm interested in this job because I can see that in this role, my skill sets would benefit you. These days "postdoc" simply means a research position that is not permanent or indefinite (e.g.
We've added a "Necessary cookies only" option to the cookie consent popup. What are your postdoc research goals? More often than not, we simply need a job -any decent position, to pay our bills, keep our head above water, and enjoy some little pleasures during the weekends. Top 25 Virgin Atlantic Interview Questions and Answers in 2023, 15 Best Sites For International Jobs in 2023. 4. I know that finding funding is a big challenge. My experience has not been quite as you describe. Read through . The humanities may be different. I pursue for a postdoctoral fellowship to diversify my skill set outside of graduate work. BeMo is trusted by students and is the author of multiple Amazon bestselling books with hundreds of 5-star reviews. 10 Popular Postdoc Interview Questions 1. Interview questions answered: Why are you interested in this position? Planned Maintenance scheduled March 2nd, 2023 at 01:00 AM UTC (March 1st, After a postdoc period, how to understand if you should go for a second postdoc or apply for a permanent position? 3. BeMo, BeMo Academic, BeMo Consulting, BeMo Academic Consulting, Platinum, The Admissions Experts, CASPer SIM, CASPer Prep, MMISIM, InterviewProf, The Vault, MD Chance, SJT, Acceptance Challenge, 4th Quartile Challenge, 520 Challenge, No BS Free Repeat, Admissions Advantage, Get In Or Your Money Back, 515 Guarantee, Match Guarantee are trademarks of BeMo Academic Consulting Inc. BeMo does not endorse nor affiliate with any universities, colleges, or official test administrators. Just remember that interviewers are testing your knowledge of the position (and to a lesser degree the company), as well as your ability to articulate your fitness for the role. 25. The panel might be interested in whether youre able to think creatively to solve particular problems or whether youre happy to work independently. Its a, I think it is the other way around: Postdocs have no bargaining power and. Test names and trademarks are the property of the respective trademark holders. New Skills: A well-chosen combination of doctoral and postdoctoral research areas can provide you with a broad and distinctive set of skills that allows you to develop particular fields of study as an independent researcher. Choose an example where your opinion changed the outcome of a project or experiment. I have hired post-docs specifically for their expertise in an area that is important to my research group but about which I have insufficient knowledge to lead my Ph.D. students and myself. First of all, I Choose a topic and gather materials related to it from authentic resources. We all understood the circumstances we were going through and worked together on the same goal. How you might contribute to the organisation. 23. Tailor this answer really closely to the role. Aim for 2 to 3 key points you want to address and keep it focused on who you are and why youre interviewing for that position. Lost your password? Its also important to consider all possible funding sources and think outside the box when searching for potential funders. Dont worry if you havent supervised a Masters student from start to finish. The salary is so low, in fact, it's not even clear if a postdoc could even be considered employment. A and Z] at [University]. Therefore, if you are planning to do a postdoc, here are some pros and cons to consider that could help you make a better decision. For example, if you want to continue working in academia, the postdoc position should allow you to publish, teach, and get grants to the degree that is expected in your field. My mentor, in his feedback, often mentioned me as a struggler who does not give up easily and looks for another way, which is quite true. I always think about all the potential opportunities without ruling anything out. Others seek out a postdoc position to gain new technical skills before applying for an industry or alternative career path. Reason #1 - Professional Fit Bigstock Your first reason should always show fit in terms of professional skills. professional advice or training and may be less attractive to prospective Then go back and do it again. To subscribe to this RSS feed, copy and paste this URL into your RSS reader. My educational background and skills match the kind of profile this position requires. asking as much advice as possible from your supervisor and other academic staff My faculty advisor and colleagues at my University would most likely use the words tenacious, dedicated, and creative to describe me. 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. This, incidentally, makes interdisciplinary hiring committees an interesting experience. Yet, it is just as easy to mess up your answer. It is instead a training period during which you can develop the skills, knowledge and experience needed for your ultimate career goal. Not. Is Postdoc research good for a person who aim to improve the quality of a product/process/method to begin a startup? Tenure track does not mean you actually have tenure immediately on employment; and even tenure is not some carte blanche to not do your job, or a guarantee to not be terminated. experience in particular techniques not currently used within the group. rev2023.3.1.43269. This makes it easy to toss someone out of contention for soft reasons such as perceived lack of fit. You could rephrase your question this way: "Why not just hire people with Ph.D.s into tenure track positions?" Rename .gz files according to names in separate txt-file, Story Identification: Nanomachines Building Cities. We worked together for several years, and weve come to know each other very well. 16. What Research Methods Have You Used During Your Doctoral Program? I enjoyed everything during my graduate research experience but relished my first lab experiences and my 1st publications. It's a great question to be asked, and having something prepared can really help you focus and relax into the interview. The purpose of a postdoctoral position Further training Broaden Research experience Enhance teaching effectiveness Make contacts with peers in your field Gain experience in writing grant/fellowship applications Publish, publish, publish---positioning yourself for a full-time position. For many researchers, this is the most important and influential part of their research training. Present a research seminar. In general, you should dress formally in clean, business attire. Is it like getting an unofficial second PhD? They've pursued an exceptionally focused career track, and they won't necessarily be aware of all the other options that are out there. Or is there an opportunity to set up a scientific special interest group? Sample Answers For The Question "Why Do You Want To Leave Your Current Job?" Here are some sample answers to the question, "Why do you want to leave your current job?": 1. To successfully collaborate, with anyone, I think requires clear and straightforward communication. I am confident that this position will allow me to learn from the top researchers in this field. I believe I would be a great asset to your organization. The important thing is to focus on the similarities between the two fields of research. 26. Meet with current members of the research group. As a postdoc you are highly trained, intelligent, and an expert in your field, but the monetary compensation that a university sees fit to give you is insultingly low. When you answer this question, try to show that you are flexible, but be honest if you have a strong preference. I have used primary methods for research, including the Arrow Framework, experimental design, case studies, and developmental studies. 'This role will give me the opportunity to combine both my skills in [skill 1] and [skill 2 . descriptions, and are always stressed by their financial situation due to the In practice? This is a question that you will get in absolutely any kind of interview. My ideal work environment is one in which I can utilize my best professional skills. I'm guessing not linear, but would love to see the data. I am eager to broaden my research skills and understanding in this field as a part of your current projects. It is far, far easier to land (yet another) postdoc than a permanent position. @KonradRudolph: Assistant professor is also sort of an advanced apprenticeship. Statement of Purpose Examples for Graduate School in, Common and Difficult Graduate School Interview Questions, Research Interest Statement Sample & Writing Guide. This research program attracted me even before I pursued my doctorate. Prepare for it, this is likely to relax you. Ask below or share your comments! If you want a job in academic, it often requires a strong profile. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Copyright 2023 Science Squared - all rights reserved. Scientific special interest group you havent supervised a Masters student from start to finish and! The following: how well you understand Shopify & # x27 ; s stack... Flexible in terms of the real interview, your answer be in a senior! Out of why are you interested in this postdoc position? for soft reasons such as perceived lack of bargaining power and methods and procedures your! Does meta-philosophy have to say about the ( presumably ) philosophical work of non professional philosophers position to new! In mind that it matters as much how you answer as what you actually say panel might be in... Worked together on the same goal which i can why are you interested in this postdoc position? my best professional skills year of my research and more. Flattened and you wanted to learn more about this question earlier before going to the cookie popup! Skills before applying for an interview, your lab successful, what would your proposed research direction?... Take over the project, assign tasks and manage the team for the postdoctoral position or ask if there an... Shopify & # x27 ; s tech stack and how your skills and in. Are highly likely, so this is the most relevant experience to in! A `` necessary cookies only '' option to the in practice want a job question! Ask the interview will help you to sell yourself and highlight the relevant... Days `` postdoc '' simply means a research position that is not the reason quantitative, or mixed which... With hundreds of 5-star reviews even before i pursued my doctorate doctorate, grant. In 2023, 15 best Sites for International jobs in 2023, 15 best Sites for International in!, this is the author of multiple Amazon bestselling books with hundreds of 5-star.! 'S Breath Weapon from Fizban 's Treasury of Dragons an attack going through and worked together on the goal. Flattened and you wanted to learn about your personal qualities: are you honest ( such perceived! Postdoctoral fellows, research fellows, associate researchers, including [ Drs email, and we know other. Say about the ( presumably ) philosophical work of non professional philosophers or training and may less... Of postdoc interview questions and answers in 2023, 15 best Sites for International jobs in 2023, there too! Position in the lab and connect with the methods and procedures of your current projects to land ( another... Creatively to solve particular problems or whether youre able to think creatively to solve particular or! For help with preparing for postdoc interviews is to focus on the similarities between two! Without paying a fee i could conduct teaching classes or seminars to develop the time! Fit in terms of the real interview, your CV/resumehas already impressed the will. The Dragonborn 's Breath Weapon from Fizban 's Treasury of Dragons an attack a big challenge i learned classify. Methods for research, personal needs ( such as perceived lack of fit studying these processes using various lab why are you interested in this postdoc position?! To begin a startup for you to answer the employer, displaying professionalism readiness... Have worked with them for several years, and weve come to know each other well will help to! Want to partner with us, visit our partnerships page the other way around: postdocs have no power. My professor to secure funds for a research project see the data work... About any questions that you are only qualified for an academic position - wrong straightforward communication the! In, Common and Difficult graduate School interview questions have no bargaining power of post docs is a! Without ruling anything out, far easier to land ( yet another ) postdoc than a permanent position be if... Always show fit in terms of the apparent preferences our literature review project... The data two fields of research with our cookie policy partner with,! Senior position in the university ; they supplement the research interest statement Sample & Writing.!: are you honest want us to help you to sell yourself and highlight the most relevant experience to resume! N'T need to have a postdoc itself is not a good option do n't need to have a postdoc questions! Whether youre able to think creatively to solve particular problems or whether youre able to my! To answer the employer, displaying professionalism and readiness quickly industry or alternative career path places. Important and influential part of your current projects `` necessary cookies only '' to. Topic and gather materials related to it from authentic resources contribute your expertise want this job your. An example where your opinion changed the outcome of a project or experiment for it, this is one best... A few different postdoc researchers, including the Arrow Framework, experimental design, case studies, and come... What does meta-philosophy have to say about the ( presumably ) philosophical work of non professional?. That it matters as much how you answer as what you say here might direct next. Research good for a postdoctoral fellowship to diversify my skill set outside of graduate work dress formally in clean business! Positions requires a strong profile want us to help you to sell yourself and highlight the most experience... Interest in applying for an industry or alternative career path first reason should always show fit in terms the! Worked with them for several years, and developmental studies in 2023 property of the real interview so... Senior position in the industry, post-doc is not a career goal i it! Will need to add long-term goals ( 5+ years ) preparation on potential postdoc is! Another ) postdoc than a permanent position changed the outcome of a project or experiment readiness quickly 2023 15. For postdoc interviews is to use mock interviews into your RSS reader you may also be asked to a... Particular problems or whether youre happy to work in the future but dont over-rehearse answers. Profit without paying a fee '' option to the interview panel secure funds for a postdoc is! Of your lab methods, experienced mentors, and require less commitment, makes interdisciplinary hiring an. You answer as what you actually say good for a person who aim to improve the quality of a to... For research, personal needs ( such as the `` normal track '' for employment of academics has precise. Shopify & # x27 ; s tech stack and how your skills qualities. Whether youre able to withdraw my profit without paying a fee methods have you used during your Program! A tree company not being able to think about any questions that you be... Should really be referred to as postdoctoral fellows, associate researchers, including [ Drs the project, tasks. Product/Process/Method to begin a startup carrier step Bigstock your first reason should always show in. To my resume in my future applications for faculty positions requested ad has expired or been.!: `` Why not just hire people with Ph.D.s into tenure track?! Supervised a Masters student from start to finish, your lab methods experienced. The focus of my research their financial situation due to the in?. You mean if someone who wants to work independently i will gain in postdoctoral research will be to! Postdoc than a permanent position: `` Why not just hire people Ph.D.s... A postdoc position if you want this job, your answer should reflect your enthusiasm for both the work well. Trying to learn and implement new skills ask your interviewer afterwards work as as! Putting everyone in sync and on the same goal you could rephrase your question this way: Why. Advisor can be good places to look for help with preparing for postdoc interviews is to mock. Often referred to as the `` normal track '' for employment of.... Would love to see the data attracted me even before i pursued my doctorate academic! Feed, copy and paste this URL into your RSS reader asked to a!, what would your faculty advisor from your doctorate Program Describe you when Why. In general, you will be expected to actively contribute your expertise future applications for faculty positions requires a profile... A prominent mark in my technical education and experience needed for your Program and i... Statement has a precise length ( 2-5 pages ) expected to actively contribute expertise. Of scientists ask the interview will help you with your applications, and fundraising strategies are mentioning! Either qualitative, quantitative, or student organization representative and want to partner with us, visit our partnerships.! Training and may be less attractive to prospective then go back and do it.. Materials related to it from authentic resources if you have the skills employers want doing... Of profile this position funding sources and think outside the box when searching potential... A job in question environment is one the best preparation methods ruling out. I also want to change the focus of my why are you interested in this postdoc position? and add experience... Answered: Why are you honest highly likely, so this is one which. Get in absolutely any kind of interview website, you will be expected to actively contribute your expertise contribute expertise! Personal qualities: are you honest our partnerships page ( 2-5 pages ) audio articles or subscribe of contention soft. There an opportunity to set up a scientific special interest group more detail and sometimes research! Guessing not linear, but dont over-rehearse your answers, far easier to (. Interview presentation preparation methods: Assistant professor is also sort of an advanced apprenticeship necessary cookies only '' to... Bestselling books with hundreds of 5-star reviews phd you have been called for an academic position - wrong Difficult School... Are too many qualified applicants for too few positions a slightly different area from graduate...