I applied online. I interviewed at U.S. Food and Drug Administration (Philadelphia, PA)
Interview
I had three interviews for three positions within a few months. And they were quite different. The experience was highly dependent on the mentor's style or maybe division style. Some of them asked for an one-hour presentation and some didn't require a presentation at all. From my understanding, the interview intensity somehow reflects their willingness to train the fellows and whether they might have high expectations for the fellows. Same as all the other interviews, it was a mutual selection process for both sides to determine if they are compatible. All the interviews went well, and everyone was very respectful and friendly. I eventually decided to accept the offer from a mentor who seems more chill.
Average interview
Application
I interviewed at U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Interview
Two job talks and seminars followed by question and answer session. The first talk is about my PhD project and the second talk is about the future research that I would be performing at FDA.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
What is an instance where you had conflict with your supervisor?
I applied through university. I interviewed at U.S. Food and Drug Administration (Silver Spring, MD)
Interview
I received the opportunity through my school's career center. After completing simple background checks, I talked with the manager via zoom. After ~ 30 min presentation about my previous work, I was asked few questions on spot. Few days later, I received an offer which I accepted. Then I had to finish rather longer government background checks.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
What research obstacles did you encounter and how did you resolve it?