20 NIH Interview Questions and Answers

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is one of the world’s foremost medical research facilities, and as such, they are always on the lookout for talented and dedicated employees. If you’re lucky enough to be invited to interview for a position at NIH, you can be sure that you’ll be asked some tough questions.

To help you prepare, we’ve compiled a list of some of the most common NIH interview questions, along with sample answers to give you an idea of what the interviewer is looking for.

NIH Interview Process

The interview process at NIH can vary depending on the position you are applying for. However, most interviews will involve a panel of interviewers asking questions about your experience and qualifications. For some positions, you may also be asked to give a presentation or take a test. Overall, the interview process is generally positive and professional.

1. Why do you want to work at NIH?

This question is a great way for employers to learn more about your interest in their organization. When you answer this question, it’s important to show that you have done some research on the NIH and understand what they do. You can also mention any personal connections you may have with the organization or its employees.

Example: “I am very passionate about biomedical research and I think the work that the NIH does is incredibly important. I would love to be able to contribute to such an amazing organization. My uncle works at the National Institute of Mental Health, so I’ve always been interested in working here.”

2. What are your research interests and how would they contribute to the success of NIH?

The NIH is a research facility that focuses on biomedical and health-related research. They want to know how your interests align with their goals, so they can determine if you’re the right fit for the position. When answering this question, make sure to highlight your passion for research and how it will benefit the organization.

Example: “I have always been passionate about medical research, which is why I chose to pursue a career in science. My primary interest is finding new ways to treat chronic illnesses. I believe my skills as a researcher would be beneficial to the success of NIH because I am committed to finding solutions to complex problems.”

3. Tell me about a time that you had to help someone with something that was outside of your job description, what did you do?

This question is a great way to show your problem-solving skills and how you can help others. When answering this question, it’s important to highlight the steps you took to solve the issue or help the person in need.

Example: “When I was working as an office manager for a small business, one of my employees called out sick on a Friday afternoon. Since we were short-staffed that day, I decided to work through lunch so that I could cover the employee’s shift. This allowed our team to have enough staff to get everything done before leaving for the day.”

4. What is your experience in public speaking?

Public speaking is a skill that many biomedical researchers need to have. Interviewers ask this question to see if you are comfortable with public speaking and how much experience you have in it. If you don’t have any experience, explain what steps you would take to gain some.

Example: “I’ve never given a formal presentation before, but I am very comfortable talking in front of groups. In college, I volunteered at the local children’s hospital where I talked to kids about science. It was a great opportunity for me to practice my public speaking skills and learn more about the field.”

5. Describe your laboratory skills.

The NIH is looking for candidates who have the skills and knowledge to work in a laboratory setting. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe your previous experience working in a lab and how you used your skills to help others or complete projects.

Example: “I worked as an assistant at my university’s biology department where I helped professors with their research by collecting data and performing experiments. I also assisted students with their projects and answered questions about different aspects of the scientific process. This experience has given me valuable insight into what it takes to succeed in a laboratory environment.”

6. How would you describe yourself as a leader?

Leadership is an important skill for any NIH employee to have. The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your leadership skills and how you would apply them in your role as a biomedical researcher at the NIH. To answer, think of a time when you were a leader or helped someone else lead a project. Explain what made you qualified to be a leader and what qualities you possess that make you a good leader.

Example: “I believe I am a strong leader because I am empathetic and compassionate. When working with others, I try to understand their needs and concerns so I can help them achieve their goals. In my previous position, I was promoted to team leader after one of our researchers left unexpectedly. I took on this new role by listening to my coworkers’ ideas and concerns and helping them develop solutions.”

7. What are some factors that you consider when evaluating an opportunity for employment?

This question can help the interviewer gain insight into your decision-making process when considering a job opportunity. Your answer should include several factors that you consider important in making a career choice, such as salary and benefits, work culture and professional development opportunities.

Example: “I am very interested in working for an organization that offers competitive salaries and comprehensive benefits packages. I also look for companies with positive company cultures where employees feel valued and appreciated. Professional development is another factor that’s important to me because it helps me grow my skills and knowledge base while advancing my career.”

8. If we offered this position to you, what could you bring to our organization?

This question is a great way to show your knowledge of the NIH and how you could contribute to its success. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention specific skills or experiences that relate to the job description.

Example: “I am passionate about biomedical research and have been working in my field for over five years now. I believe my experience would help me excel in this role as an administrative assistant because I know what it takes to succeed in a fast-paced work environment. I also understand the importance of communication and organization when working with others.”

9. Provide an example of a time where you worked well under pressure.

This question is a great way to show your ability to handle stress and perform well in high-pressure situations. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a specific situation where you were able to work through pressure and achieve positive results.

Example: “In my last position as a research assistant, I was working on a project that required me to collect data from several different sources. The deadline for the project was approaching, but I had not yet collected all of the necessary information. I stayed late at the office one night to complete the remaining tasks and managed to submit the report before the deadline.”

10. Do you have any experience managing a team or being a project manager?

The NIH is a large organization that requires employees to manage projects and teams. Your interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your leadership skills and how you’ve managed them in the past. If you have experience managing a team, describe what your responsibilities were as a manager. If you don’t have direct management experience, you can talk about other leadership roles you’ve had.

Example: “In my current role as an IT specialist, I am responsible for leading a small team of developers who work on creating new software programs. In this position, I’m responsible for delegating tasks to my team members and making sure they’re working efficiently. I also make sure all projects are completed by deadlines.”

11. Give an example of a time when you had a conflict on a team, how did you resolve it?

The NIH is a large organization that requires many employees to work together. The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your ability to collaborate with others and resolve conflicts. Use your answer to explain how you used problem-solving skills, communication or teamwork to resolve the conflict.

Example: “In my last position as a research scientist, I had a disagreement with one of my colleagues over which method we should use for our experiment. We both wanted to find the best solution, so we decided to hold a meeting with other members of our team to discuss the different methods and decide on the best approach. After discussing all the options, we agreed that using the new method would be most beneficial.”

12. Are you comfortable working around hazardous chemicals/materials?

The NIH is a research facility that uses hazardous chemicals and materials in their experiments. The interviewer wants to make sure you understand the risks involved with working at this facility, as well as your comfort level with handling these substances. If you have experience working with hazardous chemicals or materials, explain how you handled them safely.

Example: “I am very comfortable working around hazardous chemicals and materials. In my last position, I was responsible for mixing solutions of various chemicals and compounds. I always made sure to follow all safety protocols when handling these substances, including wearing protective gear and following proper disposal procedures.”

13. Describe a situation where you were faced with deadlines and unable to complete all tasks assigned to you. How did you handle the situation?

This question is a great way to assess your time management skills and ability to prioritize tasks. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe the steps you took to ensure all deadlines were met while still completing other important tasks.

Example: “In my previous role as an administrative assistant, I was responsible for managing multiple projects at once. One day, I received several urgent requests from different managers that needed immediate attention. Rather than trying to complete each task immediately, I prioritized the most urgent request first and then worked on the others in order of importance. This allowed me to meet all deadlines while also ensuring quality work.”

14. Would you be able to relocate if necessary?

The NIH is a federal agency that requires its employees to be willing and able to relocate. If you are interviewing for an NIH position, it’s likely that you will need to move to the Washington D.C. area. When answering this question, make sure to emphasize your willingness to relocate if necessary.

Example: “I am happy to relocate anywhere in the country as long as I can continue my career with the NIH. I have always wanted to live in the Washington D.C. area, so relocating here would be a dream come true.”

15. What specific skills do you possess that will make you successful at NIH?

This question is your opportunity to show the interviewer that you have the skills and experience necessary for this role. When answering, it can be helpful to list a few of your most relevant skills and how they will help you succeed in this position.

Example: “I am highly organized and detail-oriented, which I believe are essential skills for working at NIH. In my previous roles, these skills helped me manage large projects while ensuring all deadlines were met. Additionally, I am passionate about research and committed to finding solutions to health issues.”

16. Have you ever dealt with difficult customers or aggressive clients? How did you handle the situation?

This question is a behavioral one that helps employers understand how you handle conflict. When answering this question, it can be helpful to provide an example of a time when you had to deal with difficult customers or aggressive clients and the steps you took to resolve the situation.

Example: “I have worked in customer service for several years now, so I’ve dealt with many different types of people. One time, I was working at a retail store where a customer became upset because they couldn’t find what they were looking for. Instead of helping them find what they needed, they started yelling at me and demanding a refund. I calmly explained to them that we didn’t offer refunds on sale items but offered to help them find what they were looking for. They eventually calmed down and found what they were looking for.”

17. Why should I hire you over other applicants who also have scientific backgrounds?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about your background and how it can benefit their organization. When answering this question, make sure you highlight any unique or specific skills that you have that would be beneficial in this role.

Example: “I believe my scientific background makes me an excellent candidate for this position because I am familiar with many of the research projects NIH has been working on. In addition, I have experience collaborating with other scientists and researchers to solve problems and find solutions. My communication skills are also strong, which is important when working in a team setting.”

18. Is there anything else you think we should know about you?

This question is your opportunity to show the interviewer that you are a well-rounded person with interests and experiences outside of work. You can use this time to discuss any volunteer or community service activities, hobbies or other personal information that may be relevant to the position.

Example: “I am an avid runner who has completed several marathons in the past few years. I have also volunteered at my local hospital’s children’s wing for the last five years, where I help organize fundraisers and events. In addition, I am currently enrolled in a master’s program for public health.”

19. What is your favorite thing about science?

This question is a great way to show your passion for science and the field you are applying for. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention something that inspired you to pursue a career in science or biomedical research.

Example: “My favorite thing about science is how much we still have left to learn. I find it exciting to discover new things every day, and I love being able to use my skills to help others understand scientific concepts. For example, when I was an undergraduate student, I helped teach a class on biology at a local community college. It was so rewarding to see students’ faces light up as they learned more about the world around them.”

20. As a recent graduate, what do you hope to learn from us?

This question is a great way to show the interviewer that you are eager to learn and grow as a professional. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention specific skills or knowledge you hope to develop while working at NIH.

Example: “I am hoping to gain more experience in research methods and data analysis. I have been taking classes on these topics for the past few years, but I know there is always room for improvement. I would love to work with an organization that values continuous learning and development.”