Genentech Scientist Interview Questions
& Process
Real candidates share what happened, how many rounds they had,
and how the experience turned out.
Based on 61 interview experiences · FREE TO READ
Candidate interview experiences
First-hand accounts from people who interviewed at Genentech.
Genentech
Scientist
Mid Average Positive experience Accept offer 3 rounds
Interview process
Phone screen Recruiter call Onsite Presentation
Interview formats
Technical Behavioral Presentation
First, I had a 30-minute phone interview with the Hiring Manager. We talked about technical stuff from my CV and the job description. Then, another 30-minute phone call with HR to chat about career paths, company vibes, and some behavioral questions. The final part was an on-site interview which included giving a seminar presentation and then talking with the team.
Confirmed questions1 question
- What are your career goals, and where do you see yourself in the next 3 to 5 years?
Genentech
Senior Scientist
Senior Average Positive experience No offer 2 rounds
Interview process
Recruiter call Presentation
Interview formats
Technical Presentation
First you have a call with a recruiter who will go over the technical parts of your CV. You can ask them questions about the job. If that goes well, they’ll set up a seminar with the team where you'll give a 40-45 minute presentation and then answer questions.
Confirmed questions1 question
- How would you address the challenges presented in X projects using different, independent methods?
Genentech
Scientist
Mid Average Negative experience No offer 2 rounds
Interview process
Recruiter call Phone screen Background check
Interview formats
Behavioral Technical
After applying online, I was contacted by a hiring manager for an initial interview, which went really well. Then, HR called me to discuss the position and administrative details, ensuring I was a good fit. This also seemed to go very well, and HR repeatedly assured me that my application would move forward and that I'd be contacted for an in-person interview soon. However, after waiting almost 3 weeks without contact, I followed up. HR ignored my follow-up completely, despite previous assurances. A month later, I received an automated rejection email. It was frustrating and unprofessional, not what I expected from Genentech.
Confirmed questions1 question
- What motivates you to seek employment at Genentech?
Genentech Scientist Interview Questions
Quoted word for word from Genentech interview reports.
“What is the most impressive thing about Genentech to you?”
Read reports →“What is your approach to synthesizing this drug molecule they developed?”
Read reports →“Can you tell me about process unit operations in detail?”
Read reports →“If an offer were to be made, would you accept it?”
Read reports →“What are your top 3 character traits?”
Read report →“What kind of work are you looking to do post-PhD?”
Read report →“Can you walk me through your postdoctoral research on the total synthesis project?”
Read report →“How would you present an idea that could save time and increase revenue to senior management to get them to approve it?”
Read report →“Regarding the data you showed, was it individual work or a team effort?”
Read report →Formats, difficulty and experience
Across all 61 Genentech interview reports.