After submitting your CV, you may be invited to a recorded video interview. There were five questions, with only one attempt allowed for each. My questions included:
– Why STFC?
– Sustainability challenges for ISIS Neutron and Muon Source
– A technical achievement
– A couple of basic heat‑transfer questions (e.g., heating water and phase changes)
If successful, the next stage is the assessment centre.
Assessment Centre Structure:
- Group Activity: Our task was a wilderness survival scenario where we had to agree on a plan as a team. If time allows, you may be asked to present your group’s outcome to the recruitment team.
- Site Tour: This part was unassessed but useful for understanding the environment.
- Technical Interview:
– You prepare a short presentation about a project and your individual contribution.
– Most of the interview focused on fundamentals: materials, mechanics, thermodynamics, and FEA.
– Example questions included: how a thermos works, reaction forces in a bike frame, tension/compression in members, tyre spokes, suitable materials and manufacturing processes, basic FEA steps, and a design case study (mine was designing a child bike seat from concept to manufacturing).
– Technical interview carries significant weight, so prepare well.
- General Interview:
– Motivation for STFC and the role
– STAR‑based questions (achievement, difficult decision, innovative solution, etc.)
– Opportunity to ask your own questions
- Graduate Q&A Session:
– Informal chance to speak with current graduates.
Overall, it was a competitive process. I learned a lot from the experience and wish the best of luck to anyone preparing for it.
