
Michigan State University Research Interview Questions
& Process
Real candidates share what happened, how many rounds they had,
and how the experience turned out.
Based on 23 interview experiences · FREE TO READ
Candidate interview experiences
First-hand accounts from people who interviewed at Michigan State University.
Research Assistant
I applied online and got an email about an interview, but the communication was really messy. They told me to show up at a specific time and place, but a meeting was already happening there, with someone even giving a presentation, so I almost left. It turned out that meeting was the interview, and it was a surprise group interview.
- Can you share an instance where you had to do tedious work?
Research Assistant
I found the position on Venture.com. Then I sent my resume and cover letter to the PI. About a day later, I heard back and was able to set up an interview. The interview was very science-focused. She asked about my prior research and wanted a full rundown of what I'd done. She also asked about a few of the techniques I'd be working with and how familiar I was with them. I knew some, but for others, I only knew the theory, which for some reason got her excited. So, be upfront about what you know and what you don't. They want to teach you, but it helps if you already know a bit about the techniques.
- What previous research have you done?
- Can you give a detailed account of your previous research experience?
- What is your level of familiarity with the techniques involved?
Research Assistant
I interviewed with the professor and a post-doctoral scholar in the horticulture department, and after that, I got an email. We exchanged a few emails and set up an interview. The interview happened in the lab, and they asked me about my previous experience, my motivation for joining the lab, etc. It was a pretty relaxed process, led by the post-doc and another research associate.
- Can you tell me about your previous experience?
- Why are you interested in this particular lab?
- Discuss your familiarity with laboratory procedures.
Michigan State University Research Interview Questions
Quoted word for word from Michigan State University interview reports.
“What specific research areas within linguistics spark your interest?”
Read reports →“Can you tell me why you decided to attend Michigan State University?”
Read reports →“Why are you interested in undergraduate research?”
Read reports →“How do you ensure you stay on track with your schoolwork?”
Read reports →“Have you used MATLAB and other lab equipment like the multimeter or VNA?”
Read report →“Could you tell me what three words best describe you?”
Read report →“What other programs have you applied to or been accepted into?”
Read report →“What is your motivation for working in plant breeding?”
Read report →“Is there anything else you want to share?”
Read report →Formats, difficulty and experience
Across all 23 Michigan State University interview reports.