Can you describe a laboratory experiment you conducted that faced unexpected results? How did you handle it?
Situational
Problem-solving
Analytical Thinking
Attention To Detail
This question is important to assess your problem-solving skills and your ability to adapt in a laboratory setting, which are crucial for a junior development chemist.
How to answer
- Briefly describe the experiment and its objectives.
- Explain the unexpected results you encountered.
- Detail the steps you took to analyze the situation and troubleshoot.
- Share any adjustments you made to the experiment based on your findings.
- Conclude with the outcome and what you learned from the experience.
What not to say
- Only describing the successful aspects of the experiment without acknowledging challenges.
- Failing to show critical thinking in analyzing unexpected results.
- Not discussing any learning or improvements made from the experience.
- Blaming external factors without taking responsibility for the experiment.
Sample answer
“In one of my internships at a local chemical company, I was conducting a synthesis of a polymer and noticed that the expected molecular weight was significantly lower than anticipated. I carefully reviewed my protocol and realized that a key reagent had been added incorrectly. I adjusted the quantity and repeated the synthesis, which resulted in the desired molecular weight. This taught me the importance of meticulousness in laboratory work and how critical it is to troubleshoot effectively.”