BASF logo

BASF Research Scientist Interview Questions
& Process

Real candidates share what happened, how many rounds they had,
and how the experience turned out.

Based on 22 interview experiences · FREE TO READ

2.8 Rounds average
Average Typical difficulty
72.7% Positive experience

Candidate interview experiences

First-hand accounts from people who interviewed at BASF.

Showing 3 of 22
BASF logo
BASF

Research Scientist

Research · nearly a year ago

Entry Average Negative experience No offer 1 round
Interview process
Recruiter call
Interview formats
Behavioral

They said I wasn’t qualified for an entry level position even though I had more years of experience than they required. They were slow to get back to me and would suggest I was a fit for a lower level position.

Confirmed questions1 question
  • What motivated your job search?
BASF logo
BASF

Research Scientist

Research · a year ago

Mid Average Positive experience Accept offer 4 rounds
Interview process
Recruiter call Technical screen Take home Background check Offer
Interview formats
Technical Presentation Coding Behavioral

The interview process kicked off with an introductory chat with the manager, followed by a technical presentation of my PhD research. Then, there was a coding assessment that spanned three days. Finally, I had a discussion with HR. Honestly, the whole thing was put together pretty well. The manager was upfront about everything, which made it not feel like a chore. I actually enjoyed the coding round, and the manager helped me out whenever I got stuck.

Confirmed questions4 questions
  • Could you discuss your PhD research, focusing on technical aspects?
  • What are your technical skills in quantum chemistry?
  • Can you elaborate on your coding abilities?
BASF logo
BASF

Research Scientist

Research

Senior Average Negative experience No offer 1 round
Interview process
Recruiter call Background check Offer
Interview formats
Behavioral

I applied online for a role in Ghent, Belgium and was invited for an interview. The interview was online with HR and the Hiring Manager. I was told I would hear back in 1 month. HR called me 2 weeks later to say I was not selected. It was nice that they called. I did not ask for feedback. They decided to give it to me anyhow in a very unpleasant tone: "We are looking for someone who will be the driver of innovation, you know, really drive the innovation, and we just don't see that in you...I mean you are just, you know, just "like that", more like an ordinary employee"—very condescending attitude when delivering this feedback.

Confirmed questions2 questions
  • Tell me about a time you solved a problem.
  • What are your 5-year career goals?

BASF Research Scientist Interview Questions

Quoted word for word from BASF interview reports.

If you were given 2 million euros to do any research you want, what would it be?

Read reports

What contributions did your PhD make to the existing knowledge in the field?

Read reports

What are the key considerations, benefits, and drawbacks of collaborating with individuals from diverse international backgrounds?

Read reports

Could you explain the distinctions between lab research and company research?

Read report

Would you be interested in working in China if a suitable opportunity arose there?

Read report

Could you discuss your PhD research, focusing on technical aspects?

Read report

What motivates your desire to transition from academia to industry?

Read report

Formats, difficulty and experience

Across all 22 BASF interview reports.

Interview formats

Behavioral 43.8%
Technical 31.2%
Presentation 20.8%
Group 2.1%
Coding 2.1%

Interview difficulty

Easy 4.5%
Average 68.2%
Difficult 27.3%

Candidate experience

Positive 72.7%
Negative 18.2%
Neutral 9.1%