If you're a graduate looking to get into research and need to get a feel for the kind of questions employers might ask at interview, then make sure you research these graduate research interview questions below. These questions and answers are taken from real graduate interviews, and compiled to give you an idea of what to expect and how to prepare your answers.
Example Research Interview Questions:
1. Tell me about something creative you have done recently.
This will be a difficult question to answer if you have not got a good example. If you are struggling to think of one then do something now! You will benefit if you are creative and your response could be anything from writing some music to designing an ad campaign. Aspects of the example that you should bring out are the creative processes involved and how what you created fitted in with an objective.
Interviewer Expectation: This question assesses creative thinking and your approach to problem-solving, which are vital in research roles. They want to see how you apply original ideas to meet objectives. This question aims to assess your approach to a research based role, and creative thinking is key.
Example Answer: (Situation) During my final year, I helped design a research poster for our group project. (Task) We needed to communicate complex climate data clearly to a non-technical audience. (Action) I created a visually engaging infographic using Canva, simplifying the data while maintaining accuracy. (Result) Our supervisor praised the design and shared it at a departmental event, which boosted our project’s visibility.
2. What experiences have you had during your academic career that will benefit you in a career in research and development?
This is a typical question which you will be asked when applying for a role that does not fit in directly with your academic career. The best way to approach a question like this is to highlight skills that you have gained that the employer will be interested in. Good ones for this role would be good communication skills, research skills, analytical skills, writing skills and presentation skills, all of which are transferable from many degree subjects.
Interviewer Expectation: They’re looking for transferable skills like critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving developed during your degree.
Example Answer:(Situation) Throughout university, I worked on multiple group projects involving detailed research. (Task) In one project, we investigated urban pollution trends. (Action) I gathered secondary data, conducted a literature review, and presented our findings to the class. (Result) This experience strengthened my analytical, teamwork, and presentation skills - core to a research and development role.
3. Describe how you have used research methods in the past.
Some candidates may have an example from some work experience they have conducted. Try and use a recent example and explain how you conducted research particularly effectively.
Interviewer Expectation: Employers want to know you understand both qualitative and quantitative research techniques.
Example Answer:(Situation) In a psychology module, I conducted a study on student stress. (Task) I needed to collect and analyse both numerical and observational data. (Action) I created a survey using Google Forms for quantitative results and ran short interviews for qualitative insights. (Result) Combining both methods enriched my findings and earned top marks.
4. How do you ensure accuracy in your work when analysing data?
Interviewer Expectation: Accuracy is crucial in research. They want evidence of attention to detail and critical thinking.
Example Answer:(Situation) For a statistics assignment, I analysed housing affordability data. (Task) I needed to ensure all calculations and interpretations were correct. (Action) I double-checked formulas, used Excel functions to catch inconsistencies, and asked a peer to review my work. (Result) I submitted accurate analysis and received strong feedback from my tutor.
5. Have you ever faced a challenge during a research project? How did you overcome it?
Interviewer Expectation: They want to see how you approach problem-solving and deal with setbacks.
Example Answer:(Situation) While doing a survey-based project, I struggled with a low response rate. (Task) I needed to increase participation quickly. (Action) I revised the survey for clarity, shortened the questions, and promoted it via student forums. (Result) My responses doubled within three days, allowing me to meet my sample size goals.
6. Describe a time you worked on a research project with others.
Interviewer Expectation: Collaboration is key in research. They’re assessing your ability to share tasks, communicate clearly, and contribute to a team.
Example Answer:(Situation) In a marketing research module, we worked in a group of four to study consumer trends. (Task) I was responsible for primary data collection. (Action) I created the survey and coordinated with the group for consistency. (Result) Our report scored highly, and we were praised for our cohesive effort.
7. Tell me about a time when your results didn’t match your expectations.
Interviewer Expectation: This tests your critical thinking and openness to unexpected outcomes.
Example Answer:(Situation) In my dissertation, I expected a correlation between time spent on social media and poor sleep. (Task) I had to analyse the data honestly. (Action) The data showed no strong link, so I explored possible confounding factors and adjusted my discussion accordingly. (Result) My tutor appreciated my objective analysis and balanced conclusion.
8. How do you approach literature reviews for a new topic?
Interviewer Expectation: Literature reviews show your ability to synthesise and evaluate existing work, a key part of research.
Example Answer:(Situation) For a sociology paper, I had to explore media influence on youth identity. (Task) I needed to find and assess relevant sources. (Action) I searched academic databases, shortlisted papers based on relevance and credibility, and grouped themes for analysis. (Result) My review helped frame the research question and structure the argument effectively.
9. What tools or software are you comfortable using for research purposes?
Interviewer Expectation: They want to know your technical skillset and how you apply it.
Example Answer:(Situation) In various modules, I’ve used Excel for quantitative analysis and NVivo for qualitative data. (Task) For a criminology project, I had to code open-ended survey responses. (Action) I used NVivo to tag and group themes efficiently. (Result) It saved time and helped me present clear patterns in my findings.
10. What motivates you to pursue a career in research?
Interviewer Expectation: They’re assessing your passion for the field and whether you understand what a research career involves.
Example Answer:(Situation) I’ve always been curious and enjoyed solving complex problems. (Task) At university, I found research rewarding because it combines investigation with practical impact. (Action) I particularly enjoyed uncovering patterns through data analysis. (Result) This interest drives me to pursue a career where I can contribute meaningful insights through research.