Flagship Pioneering Scientist Interview Questions
& Process
Real candidates share what happened, how many rounds they had,
and how the experience turned out.
Based on 15 interview experiences · FREE TO READ
Candidate interview experiences
First-hand accounts from people who interviewed at Flagship Pioneering.
Flagship Pioneering
Senior Scientist
Senior Average Positive experience Accept offer 5 rounds
Interview process
Recruiter call Technical screen Presentation Onsite Background check Offer
Interview formats
Behavioral Technical Presentation
I had several one-on-one meetings with leadership, current team members, HR, and even someone at a different startup affiliated with the company. I also gave a brief research presentation, after which I had more one-on-one discussions to clear up any final questions.
Confirmed questions1 question
- Can you tell me about a recent paper you read outside of your area that you found particularly interesting?
Flagship Pioneering
Scientist
Mid Average Negative experience No offer 4 rounds
Interview process
Recruiter call Phone screen Presentation Technical screen
Interview formats
Technical Presentation Behavioral
I applied online for a scientist role with a new VL project at Flagship Pioneering. Right after applying, I spoke with the hiring manager briefly by phone, and then again online a few days later. After that, I had a phone chat with an HR person. A few days later, I was set up for a full-day online interview because of COVID. It involved several 1:1 meetings with different team members, and I had to give a one-hour seminar. Before the interview day, I noticed some issues: things felt rushed and secretive, I was given a fixed interview date without checking my availability, and the hiring manager discussed project details and problems, asking me to focus a third of my seminar on solutions. I found it problematic to be asked to provide free IP/consulting. During the interview day, after my seminar, I found that most 1:1s were about me offering solutions to their specific problems, going beyond typical technical questions. Despite my reservations, I did my best and followed up with a thank you note. I never heard back, which, along with the rushed process and focus on my solutions, suggests how Flagship managers operate. Other reviews point to an exploitative culture, so I wouldn't consider working there.
Confirmed questions5 questions
- Can you briefly discuss your scientific background and career goals?
- Could you share your thoughts on the specific issues this project is facing?
- What concrete solutions can you propose to address the project's challenges?
Flagship Pioneering
Principal Scientist
Staff Average Negative experience No offer 2 rounds
Interview process
Recruiter call Presentation Panel
Interview formats
Behavioral Presentation
Applied online and had a conversation with the hiring manager at the Flagship-associated company within a week. The first interview went well, and I was scheduled for a second interview (within another week) which included a presentation and a panel of 9 scientists. This interview took up most of the day. I tried to follow up for feedback, but Flagship HR didn't respond. This seems to be a pattern with them, so I'd advise against applying. I had the same experience with a Flagship startup three years ago. It feels like a company culture issue, not just a one-off.
Confirmed questions2 questions
- Can you tell me why you're interested in joining "Company X"?
- What are your expectations for your next position?
Flagship Pioneering Scientist Interview Questions
Quoted word for word from Flagship Pioneering interview reports.
“Can you explain representation learning and its significance?”
Read reports →“Could you suggest some new drug discovery target ideas?”
Read reports →“How do you feel about relocating to Boston?”
Read reports →“Can you tell me about a recent paper you read outside of your area that you found particularly interesting?”
Read reports →“What are your thoughts on experimental design for this type of research?”
Read report →“On your first day, what assay or technique would you prioritize to start with?”
Read report →“Can you provide more detailed solutions and answers for the specific problems the team is dealing with?”
Read report →“Can you explain the methodology you used in your research?”
Read report →“What steps would you have taken to further your previous related research if you had been given the chance?”
Read report →Formats, difficulty and experience
Across all 15 Flagship Pioneering interview reports.