UC San Francisco Research Interview Questions
& Process
Real candidates share what happened, how many rounds they had,
and how the experience turned out.
Based on 12 interview experiences · FREE TO READ
Candidate interview experiences
First-hand accounts from people who interviewed at UC San Francisco.
UC San Francisco
Research Assistant
Entry Average Neutral experience Accept offer 1 round
Interview process
Recruiter call Phone screen
Interview formats
Behavioral Technical
I interviewed via Skype. It was a really relaxed interview, and they asked typical questions about my past work and experience. We had some small talk too, which was nice. There was only one interviewer, the principal investigator. They didn't give much info about the lab, like how many people work there, the lab's size, or which project I'd be on. I did get to ask my questions though.
Confirmed questions1 question
- What do you think you will bring to the lab?
UC San Francisco
Research
Entry Average Positive experience Accept offer 1 round
Interview process
Recruiter call Technical screen
Interview formats
Behavioral Technical
The interview was pretty simple, lasting about 30 minutes. They mostly asked about my research background and experiences. Questions focused on my resume and asked me to detail my day-to-day responsibilities. There were also some technical biology questions, but they weren't overly specific. Overall, it was a straightforward interview, and I just made sure to be honest.
Confirmed questions1 question
- What makes you want this job?
UC San Francisco
Research Assistant
Entry Average Positive experience Accept offer 2 rounds
Interview process
Recruiter call Technical screen
Interview formats
Behavioral Technical
There were 2 rounds in total. The first round was more about getting to know you and your background, and the second round was with the Principal Investigator to discuss the project in more detail. It wasn't overly difficult or too formal. My advice would be to really dive deep into the PI's research and the project specifics beforehand.
Confirmed questions1 question
- Tell me about your prior research experience.
UC San Francisco Research Interview Questions
Quoted word for word from UC San Francisco interview reports.
“Could you explain the applications of PCR?”
Read reports →“Explain your understanding of transcription processes.”
Read reports →“What makes you want to study neuroscience?”
Read reports →“What are three things you'd want a friend to know about you?”
Read reports →“How would you describe your level of luck?”
Read report →“What are your future aspirations?”
Read report →“Can you introduce yourself?”
Read report →“What do you think you will bring to the lab?”
Read report →“Share an instance of a workplace conflict you've experienced.”
Read report →Formats, difficulty and experience
Across all 12 UC San Francisco interview reports.