Novogene Interview Questions
& Process

Scheduling this meeting was quite a hassle, the person handling it wasn't really on the ball. It was a pretty standard first-round interview after that, lots of questions about NGS and how I'd handle client interactions. It went for about 35 minutes and felt pretty positive overall. However, I never heard back after that, even though they said I'd get an update within three working days.

They called me for a screening and asked basic questions, but then dove into detailed science concepts from high school. It would've been better if they'd warned me to prepare for that instead of surprising me. It wasn't professional to say it was a quick call and then have a long one. The pay was also low with minimal compensation. I didn't like how they focused on upselling without much regard for client retention. I chose another company that pays double, has better commission, prioritizes client retention over upselling, and always provided an agenda before interviews.

The interview process had three stages. In the final stage, they expected a presentation about my professional background and the NGS market. I was also asked to identify potential major clients in the territory, explain how I'd secure their business, and outline a work plan for the role. They still didn't share the salary range even after the third round, which was disappointing given the effort required for the final stage. They also ghosted me after the third stage, which felt unprofessional.

It was a 2 step process. First, you are interviewed by someone from HR via phone. The interview was about 20 minutes and the questions were standard interview questions about how you handle conflict, how you work in a team vs. independently, tell me about yourself, etc. There was only 2 technical questions they asked me but, it was a very easy question if you brush up on standard lab techniques beforehand. You’ll know you did well if you are asked to do a follow up interview. This interview was through Zoom with the HR person and we’ll as 3 other people who work in that lab and lasted almost 45 minutes. I believe one of them was the project leader but, tbh, I forget their titles. They also asked several typical interview questions like I mentioned before but, they also asked technical questions as well. I highly suggest that you take the day before to brush up and prepare for the interview. Not only should you research the company and the position but, you should also take some time to refresh yourself on basic lab technique and terminology. Also, don’t be nervous. I have very little experience in a lab setting and still received an offer. I think that it’s important you show that you are eager and willing to learn, that you are friendly and personable, that you will make a great addition to their team and that you are actually interested in the work they do.