Hey folks,

I've recently started applying for short term posts to see me through the final months of my thesis. So far I've been invited for two interviews out of two applications. i figure at least I must be writing strong applications. I have had one interview so far and was unsuccessful. I plan on sharing the process here and will add my next experience once its over. Feel free to add any of your own experiences to this thread to help others during this daunting but exciting time.

Position: Research Assistant
Where : Russell group university
Panel: Two members
Interview length: 35 minutes

Questions Asked: 6 questions (although some where two part questions)

Why do you want this job?
Tell me about your skills set in relation to qualitative analysis
Tell me about your proposed publications
What themes do you see emerging from the research project for publication?
What specialist knowledge do you have that could contribute to the project (in relation to the project)

I can't remember the last question but weaved in amongst this were comptency based questions about team work and organisation skills. The interview atmosphere was very relaxed, I was told the next day I was unsuccessful but when I started to reflect I was perhaps not a good fit for the project. I have however requested feedback.

I will add my next experience but hope this is helpful to others:)

It is natural to be anxious and nervous for a job interview. My advice is set aside ten-15 minutes right before the interview time to do something that relaxes you and takes the edge off. Yoga, meditation, reading, a brisk walk, a calming drink ( nothing with caffeine, alcohol, or an energy drink), a quick snack. Go into the interview relaxed as you can be.

My next interview was a success!! Here's how it went

Position: Research Assistant
Panel: Three members
Interview length: 50 minutes including 10 minute presentation

A selection of questions asked:

Why do you want this job?
What can you bring to the project
What experience do you have with methods and analysis
Tell me about your ability to plan
what type of software do you have experience of
What makes a good researcher


Again it was a very relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. I hope people find these posts useful:)

hi Athena30
thanks for sharing! did you get the job?
love satchi

I also have an interview next week!!

It's only for 30 mins and I will post the questions asked as well :)

Good luck tree of life!

Thank you! Really hope I get this job!

Thanks for sharing, very useful. I hope others will share too.

Just out of interest, was your research post full time? I am looking for a part-time post-PhD, and wondering how difficult/easy it is to get one?

Hi Hugh

Yes this post is full time but the first one I applied for was part time. I think its best to set up job alerts with jobs.ac.uk in your field that way you will be aware of post as soon as they come up.

My interview questions were along the lines of:

What transferable skills have you gained from past employment?
What makes a good team player?
What considerations are there when working in a small office environment?
What do you know about this university/department?
What do you know about this subject?
What do you think about our website?
What do you think your training needs will be for this post?
How comfortable are you with analysis of big data sets?

But... I don't think I got the job because they said they would let me know on Monday and they still haven't so... I hate the waiting game :(

Thanks for sharing tree of life. Fingers crossed for you.

Didn't get it :( Went to someone with a background in the particular field, so fair enough.

I've applied for 2 other jobs now, and I'm on the look out for more, so hopefully will find something soon,

By regularly visiting for interviews, we can easily know about our shortfalls.