20 QIAGEN Interview Questions and Answers

QIAGEN is a leading global provider of sample to insight solutions for molecular testing. With more than 35,000 customers in over 100 countries, QIAGEN helps people live healthier lives by enabling them to make better decisions about their health.

If you’re interviewing for a job at QIAGEN, you can expect to be asked questions about your qualifications, experience, and skills. To help you prepare, we’ve compiled a list of common QIAGEN interview questions and answers.

QIAGEN Interview Process

The interview process at QIAGEN can vary depending on the position you are applying for. For some positions, like Field Service Specialist or Data Analyst, you may only have one interview. For other positions, like Project Manager or Regulatory Affairs Manager, you may have multiple interviews. Overall, the interview process is professional and well-organized.

1. Have you ever worked with a team of scientists?

QIAGEN is a company that values teamwork and collaboration. They want to know if you have experience working with scientists in the past, as this can help them determine whether or not you are a good fit for their organization. If you do have experience working with scientists, explain what your role was and how it helped the team succeed.

Example: “In my previous position, I worked alongside two other scientists who were also microbiologists. We all had different specialties, which allowed us to work on various projects together. For example, one scientist would study bacteria while another studied viruses. Then we would compare our findings and discuss any similarities or differences between our research. This process helped us learn more about each other’s work and develop new ideas.”

2. What would be your approach to a customer who is unhappy with their product?

QIAGEN is a company that values customer service, so they may ask this question to see how you would handle an uncomfortable situation. In your answer, try to show the interviewer that you can remain calm and professional in these situations.

Example: “I would first apologize for their dissatisfaction with our product. Then I would explain what steps we take to ensure quality control on all of our products. If it seems like there was a mistake made during production, I would offer them a replacement or refund. If they are still unhappy, I would do my best to make things right.”

3. How do you think technology will impact the life sciences industry in the next decade?

This question can help interviewers understand your knowledge of the industry and how you might fit in. Use examples from your experience to show that you’re excited about life sciences and technology’s role in it.

Example: “I think technology will continue to advance the life sciences industry, especially as we learn more about genetics. I’m looking forward to seeing what new developments come out of this field. In my last position, I worked with a team on developing a new software program for analyzing genetic data. We were able to create an algorithm that could predict certain diseases based on DNA sequencing. This was a huge accomplishment for our company.”

4. Why should we hire you over other candidates?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you can benefit their company. To answer, think of a few skills that make you unique from other candidates. You could also mention any relevant experience or education you have.

Example: “I am the most qualified candidate for this position because I have extensive knowledge of molecular biology and biochemistry. In my previous role as a research scientist, I worked with many different types of DNA sequencing machines. This hands-on experience has given me valuable insight into what makes QIAGEN products so effective. I would be able to use my expertise to help develop new methods of testing and analysis.”

5. Describe an experience where you had difficulty working with someone else on a project, how did you handle it?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you handle conflict and challenges in the workplace. Use your answer to highlight your problem-solving skills, communication skills and ability to work with others.

Example: “In my last role as a lab technician, I had a coworker who was constantly late for our shift. This made it difficult for me to complete all of my tasks on time because I would have to cover for them when they were absent. After several weeks of this behavior, I approached my coworker about the issue. They apologized and promised to be more punctual going forward. However, after two weeks, they were still late every day. I decided to speak with my supervisor about the situation again. My supervisor spoke with the employee, and they agreed to take a leave of absence until they could get their schedule under control.”

6. Tell me about a time when you had to explain complex scientific concepts to people outside of the field.

This question can help the interviewer get a sense of how you communicate with others and your ability to simplify complex ideas. Use examples from previous jobs or personal experiences that highlight your communication skills, like speaking clearly and using analogies or metaphors to explain concepts.

Example: “In my last position as a research scientist, I had to work with many different teams on various projects. One project required me to collaborate with marketing professionals who needed more information about our product’s target audience. I was able to use simple language and analogies to describe the demographics we were looking for in order to create effective marketing campaigns.”

7. Do you have any experience managing a team?

QIAGEN is a large company that requires employees to work in teams. The interviewer may ask this question to see if you have any experience working with others and how well you can lead a team. Use your answer to highlight your leadership skills, communication abilities and teamwork skills.

Example: “In my current role as a research scientist, I am responsible for leading a small team of researchers. My team members are all highly qualified individuals who bring different perspectives to the table. We hold weekly meetings where we discuss our progress on projects and share ideas. I find these meetings help us stay motivated and focused on our goals.”

8. Are you comfortable working in a fast-paced environment?

QIAGEN is a growing company that offers many opportunities for advancement. Employers ask this question to make sure you’re comfortable working in a fast-paced environment and can handle the pressure of meeting deadlines. In your answer, explain why you are a good fit for this type of work environment. Share an example of when you were able to meet a tight deadline or complete a project under pressure.

Example: “I am definitely comfortable working in a fast-paced environment. I thrive on being challenged and always strive to be the best at what I do. When I was working as a research assistant, my professor gave us a very short deadline to write our final paper. I stayed up all night writing it so I could turn it in before class started. It ended up being one of the highest grades in the class.”

9. Are you prepared to work with difficult customers or clients?

QIAGEN is a company that works with many different types of customers. Some may be more challenging than others, so the interviewer wants to make sure you can handle these situations effectively. Use your answer to show how you would remain calm and professional when working with difficult clients or customers.

Example: “I have worked in customer service for several years now, so I am prepared to work with any type of client. While some may be more challenging than others, I always try my best to provide them with excellent service. If they are upset or frustrated, I will listen carefully to what they have to say and do my best to resolve their issue as quickly as possible.”

10. In what ways do you hope to grow professionally at QIAGEN?

QIAGEN is a growing company, and they want to hire employees who are motivated to grow with the organization. When answering this question, it can be beneficial to mention specific skills you would like to develop or ways in which you hope to contribute to the company’s success.

Example: “I am excited about the opportunity to work for a growing company like QIAGEN. I have always been interested in learning more about data analysis, so I plan on taking advantage of any training opportunities that may help me learn how to use data analytics software. In addition, I would love to take part in an internship program at QIAGEN to gain experience working in a laboratory setting.”

11. Can you tell us about a time when you were under a lot of pressure and how you handled it?

This question is a great way to learn more about how you react under pressure. It can also help the interviewer determine if you have experience working in high-pressure environments and what your strategies are for handling them. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a specific situation where you were under pressure and how you overcame it.

Example: “In my previous role as a lab technician, I was responsible for testing samples from several different projects at once. This meant that I had to work quickly to ensure all of the tests were completed on time. One day, I realized that I had forgotten to test one sample before leaving for the day. I knew that I would need to stay late to complete the task, but I decided to do it anyway because I didn’t want to leave any tasks unfinished. After staying an extra hour, I felt confident that everything was ready for the next day.”

12. Describe a situation where you were unable to meet a deadline, what happened and how did you deal with it after the fact?

This question is a great way to assess your problem-solving skills and ability to learn from mistakes. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe the steps you took to ensure that you meet deadlines in the future.

Example: “In my previous role as a research assistant, I was tasked with organizing data for an important presentation. The deadline was fast approaching, so I worked late into the night to get everything ready. Unfortunately, when presenting the information, I realized that some of the data I had organized wasn’t accurate. I immediately informed my supervisor about the mistake and we reorganized the data before the next meeting.”

13. What are some issues that the life science industry faces today?

This question is a great way to test your knowledge of the industry and how you can apply it to QIAGEN. When answering this question, consider what challenges you have faced in your own career that relate to these issues.

Example: “The life science industry faces many challenges today, including finding qualified employees and keeping up with technological advances. In my last role as a lab technician, I was tasked with hiring new technicians for our department. Unfortunately, there were not enough qualified candidates to fill all of the positions we needed to fill. This led me to hire people who may not have been ready for the job, which caused some problems within the team. To solve this issue, I started an internship program where students could work part-time while they attended school.”

14. What areas of biotechnology interest you most?

This question can help the interviewer determine if your interests align with QIAGEN’s mission. Your answer should show that you are passionate about biotechnology and excited to work in this industry. You can also use this opportunity to highlight any specific skills or experience related to the job description.

Example: “I am most interested in genetic testing, which is a major part of what QIAGEN does. I have been fascinated by genetics since high school when I took AP Biology. In my senior year, I was able to do independent research on hereditary diseases. My project helped me understand how important it is for people to know their family medical history so they can take preventative measures. This inspired me to pursue a career in biotechnology.”

15. What was one of your biggest sales successes?

This question can help the interviewer get a better idea of your sales skills and how you might fit into their organization. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific sale that helped your company or client achieve a goal.

Example: “In my last position as a sales representative for a pharmaceutical company, I was able to convince a hospital to switch from our competitor’s product to ours. This resulted in an increase in revenue for both the hospital and my company, which allowed us to hire more employees.”

16. What is the most important thing to remember when selling products?

This question is an opportunity to show your sales skills and how you can help the company sell more products. Your answer should include a few tips for selling effectively, such as knowing your audience or using persuasive language.

Example: “The most important thing when selling any product is to know who you’re selling it to. You need to understand their needs and what they want from the product. For example, if I was selling a DNA testing kit, I would speak with potential customers about why they might want to test their DNA. I would also explain that this particular kit offers the best results on the market.”

17. What would you say makes you unique compared to other candidates?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your personality and how you would fit in with their team. They want to know what makes you stand out from the other candidates, so they can see if you are a good match for their company culture. When answering this question, it is important to be honest and genuine. You should highlight one or two of your best qualities that make you unique.

Example: “I think what makes me unique compared to other candidates is my ability to work well under pressure. I have always been someone who thrives when there is a tight deadline. In previous positions, I was often given projects with short deadlines, which forced me to prioritize my tasks and get them done on time. This skill has helped me succeed in my career, as I am able to meet any challenge.”

18. If hired, what would be your first step to learning more about our company and products?

This question is an opportunity to show your enthusiasm for the role and company. It also gives you a chance to demonstrate your research skills, which are important in any job. When answering this question, make sure to mention something specific about QIAGEN that shows you did some background research on the company.

Example: “I would start by reading through the company’s website and social media accounts. I’d also look at the news articles written about the company to learn more about its history. After that, I would read up on each of the products offered by the company to get a better idea of what they do and how they work.”

19. How well can you communicate technical information to non-technical people?

QIAGEN is a company that works with highly technical information, so the interviewer may ask this question to see if you can communicate complex ideas in an easy-to-understand way. Use your answer to show that you have strong communication skills and are able to simplify complicated concepts for others.

Example: “I find it important to be able to explain technical information to non-technical people because I believe everyone should understand what we do as scientists. In my last role, I had to give presentations to our clients about our products, which included explaining how DNA sequencing worked. I practiced my presentation multiple times until I was comfortable enough to deliver it without notes. My practice helped me learn how to break down complex topics into simple terms.”

20. What kind of questions do you like to ask potential clients?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you interact with clients and whether your personality is a good fit for their company. Use this opportunity to show that you are friendly, empathetic and eager to learn more about the client’s needs.

Example: “I like to ask questions that allow me to get to know my potential client better. I find it helpful to understand what they’re looking for in terms of results and how they want to feel after using our products. This helps me make sure we’re offering them the right solutions for their unique needs.”