50+ Research Scientist Interview Questions and Answers

The interview questions cover topics such as self-introduction, developing methods for API to finished products, column chemistry, method validation, and ICH guidelines.

• For self-introduction, briefly talk about your background, education, and relevant experience.

• To develop a method for API to finished products, consider factors such as the desired assay and related substances, analytical techniques, and regulatory requirements.

• Column chemistry refers to the selection and opti...read more

Sink condition in dissolution refers to a state where the drug being dissolved is completely solubilized and no further dissolution occurs.

• Sink condition is achieved when the concentration of the drug in the dissolution medium is much lower than its solubility.

• It ensures that the dissolution process is not limited by the drug's solubility but by other factors like diffusion.

• Sink condition is important for accurate and reproducible dissolution testing of pharmaceutical product...read more

The percentage of buffer used in mobile phase and the use of SLS in disso and its allowed percentage.

• The percentage of buffer used in the mobile phase depends on the specific experiment and the desired separation of compounds.

• Buffer is used in the mobile phase to maintain the pH and ionic strength, which can affect the separation and stability of analytes.

• The percentage of buffer can range from 5% to 50% or more, depending on the specific requirements.

• Sodium lauryl sulfate (S...read more

Possible reasons for not achieving mass balance in forced degradation

• Incomplete degradation of the analyte

• Formation of unknown degradation products

• Loss of analyte during sample preparation or analysis

• Inaccurate measurement of sample or standard volumes

• Errors in weighing or dilution of samples

• Contamination of samples or equipment

• Inadequate mixing or homogenization of samples

• Inefficient extraction of analyte from the matrix

• Inadequate stability of the analyte during the degradat...read more

Multimedia dissolution method can be developed by considering the physicochemical properties of the drug and the media used.

• Select appropriate media that mimic the physiological conditions of the drug's intended site of action

• Determine the solubility and stability of the drug in different media

• Optimize the pH and temperature of the media to enhance drug solubility

• Use appropriate equipment and techniques for sample preparation and analysis

• Validate the method according to regul...read more

pKa value determination and their role in development

• pKa value is a measure of the acidity or basicity of a compound

• It helps in understanding the chemical properties and behavior of a compound

• pKa values are important in drug development as they affect drug solubility, absorption, and stability

• Determining pKa values can aid in optimizing drug formulations and predicting drug-drug interactions

To start method development, I would first review the literature, define the objectives, gather necessary materials and equipment, and plan the experimental design.

• Review the existing literature to understand the current knowledge and methods used in the field.

• Define clear objectives and research questions to guide the method development process.

• Gather all the necessary materials, reagents, and equipment required for the experiments.

• Plan the experimental design, including the...read more

Electrolytic capacitors store higher amount of energy.

• Electrolytic capacitors have higher energy storage capacity compared to other types of capacitors.

• They are commonly used in power supply circuits and audio amplifiers.

• Examples of electrolytic capacitors include aluminum electrolytic capacitors and tantalum capacitors.

Paint is a liquid or paste used to add color and protect surfaces. Oil absorption of pigments measures their ability to absorb oil.

• Paint is a mixture of pigments, binders, solvents, and additives.

• Oil absorption of pigments is a measure of how much oil a pigment can absorb.

• It is important to know the oil absorption of pigments as it affects the paint's consistency and drying time.

• Specific gravity is the ratio of the density of a substance to the density of a reference substanc...read more

Mathematics is applied in various ways in the field of research science.

• Mathematics is used to develop and analyze models and algorithms.

• It is used in statistical analysis and data interpretation.

• Mathematical equations and formulas are used to describe and predict phenomena.

• Mathematical optimization techniques are applied to solve complex problems.

• Mathematics is used in designing experiments and conducting simulations.

• It is used in signal processing, image analysis, and patte...read more

The role of a ligand in Suzuki coupling reaction is to facilitate the formation of a stable complex between the catalyst and the reactants.

• A ligand coordinates with the catalyst metal center, enhancing its reactivity and selectivity.

• It helps in stabilizing the transition state and lowering the activation energy of the reaction.

• Different ligands can influence the reaction rate and product distribution.

• Common ligands used in Suzuki coupling include phosphines, phosphites, and N...read more

The criteria/limit for impurity recovery depends on the specific research study and the desired purity level.

• The criteria for impurity recovery may include the maximum allowable impurity concentration or percentage.

• The limit for impurity recovery can be determined based on regulatory guidelines or industry standards.

• The desired purity level may vary depending on the application or intended use of the research findings.

• Impurity recovery criteria may also consider the potential...read more

The sink condition is decided based on various factors such as the purpose of the sink, the type of research being conducted, and the desired outcome.

• Consider the purpose of the sink - Is it for disposal, storage, or analysis of substances?

• Evaluate the type of research being conducted - Does it involve chemical reactions, biological samples, or physical measurements?

• Assess the desired outcome - Are you looking for preservation, degradation, or transformation of the substances...read more

Mass balance is a principle used in various scientific disciplines to account for the mass of substances in a system.

• Mass balance is based on the principle of conservation of mass, which states that mass cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred or transformed.

• It involves tracking the inputs, outputs, and accumulation of mass within a system.

• Mass balance equations are commonly used in environmental science, chemistry, and engineering.

• For example, in environmental scien...read more

Developing an HPLC related substances method involves selecting appropriate column, mobile phase, and detection wavelength.

• Select a suitable column based on the analyte properties and separation requirements.

• Optimize the mobile phase composition and gradient program for efficient separation.

• Choose an appropriate detection wavelength based on the analyte's UV absorption properties.

• Validate the method by testing specificity, linearity, accuracy, precision, and robustness.

• Docume...read more

Antenna is a device that transmits or receives electromagnetic waves. Gain and directivity are related to the ability of an antenna to focus energy in a particular direction.

• Antenna is a transducer that converts electrical signals into electromagnetic waves and vice versa

• Gain is the measure of the ability of an antenna to direct energy in a particular direction

• Directivity is the measure of the concentration of energy in a particular direction

• The higher the gain, the higher th...read more

Fluorinating agent, butyl lithium handling, and reducing agents are important in research science.

• The cheapest fluorinating agent is often hydrogen fluoride.

• Butyl lithium must be handled with extreme care due to its reactivity and flammability.

• Flow meters can be used to accurately control the addition of butyl lithium.

• Common reducing agents used in research science include sodium borohydride and lithium aluminum hydride.

I am well-versed with the mechanism of the Grignard reaction.

• Grignard reaction involves the addition of an organomagnesium halide to a carbonyl compound.

• It is a nucleophilic addition reaction.

• The reaction is highly useful in organic synthesis, especially for the formation of carbon-carbon bonds.

• Examples include the synthesis of alcohols, carboxylic acids, and ketones.

• The reaction is named after French chemist Victor Grignard, who discovered it in 1900.

No, I would not send a report to the client if the quality is not 100%.

• It is important to maintain high quality standards in research reports to ensure accuracy and credibility.

• Sending a report with less than 100% quality could lead to misunderstandings or errors in interpretation.

• It is better to take the time to revise and improve the report before sending it to the client.

• Communicate with the client about any delays in delivery due to quality concerns, to manage expectation...read more

Carbon-carbon bonds can be prepared through various methods including coupling reactions and carbonylation reactions. Stereochemistry can be controlled through the choice of reagents and reaction conditions.

• Coupling reactions such as Suzuki-Miyaura coupling and Heck reaction can be used to form carbon-carbon bonds.

• Carbonylation reactions such as the Monsanto process can also be used to form carbon-carbon bonds.

• Stereochemistry can be controlled through the use of chiral reagen...read more

Bsc classification is a system used to categorize and classify living organisms based on their characteristics.

• Bsc classification stands for Biological Species Concept classification.

• It is used to group organisms based on their physical and genetic characteristics.

• The classification system includes Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, and Species.

• Each level of classification is based on specific characteristics and traits.

• For example, humans are classified as Kingdom...read more

I have expertise in various molecular biology techniques including PCR, DNA sequencing, cloning, and gene expression analysis.

• Proficient in PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction) for amplifying DNA sequences

• Skilled in DNA sequencing methods such as Sanger sequencing and next-generation sequencing

• Experienced in molecular cloning techniques for gene manipulation and expression studies

• Knowledgeable in gene expression analysis using techniques like qRT-PCR and RNA-seq

• Familiar with techn...read more

Tert-butyldimethylsilyl (TBDMS) is an acid stable protecting reagent commonly used in organic synthesis.

• TBDMS is commonly used to protect alcohols, amines, and carboxylic acids from acidic conditions during chemical reactions.

• It is stable under acidic conditions, making it a popular choice for protecting groups in organic synthesis.

• TBDMS can be removed using fluoride sources like tetrabutylammonium fluoride (TBAF) after the desired reaction is complete.

I am aware of various cell culture techniques including adherent cell culture, suspension cell culture, and 3D cell culture.

• Adherent cell culture involves cells growing attached to a surface, such as a petri dish or flask.

• Suspension cell culture involves cells growing freely in a liquid medium, without attachment to a surface.

• 3D cell culture involves growing cells in a three-dimensional environment to better mimic the in vivo conditions.

• Other techniques include primary cell c...read more

LCMS is liquid chromatography mass spectrometry, while GCMS is gas chromatography mass spectrometry.

• LCMS uses liquid as the mobile phase, while GCMS uses gas.

• LCMS is more suitable for analyzing polar compounds, while GCMS is better for non-polar compounds.

• LCMS typically has higher sensitivity and selectivity compared to GCMS.

• LCMS is often used for analyzing small molecules, peptides, and proteins, while GCMS is commonly used for analyzing volatile organic compounds.

Design a ML model for filtering choices on a website.

• Collect user data on preferences and behavior

• Use collaborative filtering or content-based filtering algorithms

• Implement a recommendation system to suggest choices based on user data

• Regularly update the model with new data for improved accuracy

Molecules are held together in crystals by intermolecular forces.

• Intermolecular forces, such as hydrogen bonding, electrostatic interactions, and van der Waals forces, hold molecules together in crystals.

• These forces are responsible for the regular arrangement of molecules in a crystal lattice.

• Examples of crystals held together by intermolecular forces include salt (sodium chloride) and quartz.

• The strength and type of intermolecular forces vary depending on the molecules invo...read more

Yes, I am open for growth and learning.

• I actively seek out opportunities for professional development and further education.

• I am always eager to learn new skills and techniques in my field.

• I am open to feedback and constructive criticism to improve my work.

• I believe that continuous learning is essential for personal and professional growth.

The ionisation mode is selected based on the type of sample and the information required from the analysis.

• Consider the polarity of the sample and the analyte of interest

• Determine the type of information required from the analysis

• Evaluate the sensitivity and selectivity of different ionisation modes

• Examples: ESI for polar compounds, APCI for non-polar compounds, MALDI for large biomolecules

I studied subjects related to biology, chemistry, and data analysis in the semester.

• Biology: focused on genetics, cell biology, and ecology

• Chemistry: covered organic and inorganic chemistry principles

• Data analysis: learned statistical methods and data interpretation

Data integrity refers to the accuracy, consistency, and reliability of data throughout its lifecycle.

• Data integrity ensures that data remains unchanged and reliable over time.

• It involves maintaining the accuracy and consistency of data during storage, processing, and transmission.

• Data integrity can be achieved through various methods such as checksums, encryption, and error detection and correction.

• Examples of data integrity issues include data corruption, unauthorized modifi...read more

Noise is measured practically using sound level meters that measure sound pressure levels in decibels.

• Sound level meters are used to measure noise levels in decibels

• The measurement is taken at a specific location and time

• The meter should be calibrated before use

• The measurement is affected by the distance from the source of noise

• The measurement is also affected by the frequency of the noise

• Examples of noise sources include traffic, machinery, and music

• The measurement is compar...read more

The Grignard Reaction is a nucleophilic addition reaction between an organomagnesium halide and a carbonyl group.

• Named after French chemist Victor Grignard

• Used to form carbon-carbon bonds

• Commonly used in organic synthesis

• Example: Grignard reagent (RMgX) + aldehyde (R'CHO) -> alcohol (R'CH(OH)R)

Titration is a technique used in chemistry to determine the concentration of a substance in a solution.

• Acid-base titration: involves the reaction between an acid and a base to determine the concentration of either

• Redox titration: involves the transfer of electrons between reactants to determine the concentration of a substance

• Complexometric titration: involves the formation of a complex between a metal ion and a ligand to determine the concentration of the metal ion

• Precipitat...read more

RF values are important in chromatography to identify and separate compounds.

• RF value is the ratio of the distance traveled by a compound to the distance traveled by the solvent front in chromatography.

• It helps in identifying and separating compounds based on their polarity and solubility.

• RF values can be used to compare compounds and determine their purity.

• For example, in thin-layer chromatography, RF values are used to identify and separate different pigments in plants.

• In h...read more

C-O bond length is minimum in carbonyl compounds.

• Carbonyl compounds have a double bond between carbon and oxygen.

• The C-O bond length is shorter in carbonyl compounds compared to other compounds.

• Examples of carbonyl compounds include aldehydes, ketones, and carboxylic acids.

Pharmacovigilance is the science of monitoring, detecting, assessing, and preventing adverse effects of drugs.

• Pharmacovigilance plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and efficacy of drugs.

• It involves monitoring and reporting adverse drug reactions (ADRs) to regulatory authorities.

• Pharmacovigilance helps in identifying new ADRs and evaluating the risk-benefit profile of drugs.

• It also helps in improving patient safety and reducing healthcare costs.

• Examples of successful p...read more

I view failure as an opportunity for growth and learning, and approach it with resilience and determination.

• I see failure as a stepping stone towards success, rather than a setback.

• I analyze the reasons for failure to identify areas for improvement.

• I seek feedback from others to gain different perspectives and insights.

• I use failure as a motivation to work harder and smarter towards achieving my goals.

• I maintain a positive attitude and mindset, focusing on the lessons learned...read more

OOS stands for Out of Specification. It refers to test results that fall outside the specified limits.

• OOS results can indicate a potential issue with the testing process or the quality of the product.

• Examples of OOS include a drug potency test result that is lower than the specified limit or a food sample that exceeds the allowed microbial count.

• OOS results require investigation to determine the cause and may lead to product rejection or retesting.

Pandorum Technologies is a biotechnology company focused on developing personalized medicine solutions for liver diseases.

• Pandorum works on developing personalized medicine solutions for liver diseases

• They focus on using innovative technologies to create bioengineered tissues for liver regeneration

• Their research involves using stem cells and 3D bioprinting techniques

ESI and APCI are ionization techniques used in mass spectrometry.

• ESI stands for Electrospray Ionization and is used for analyzing polar and charged molecules.

• APCI stands for Atmospheric Pressure Chemical Ionization and is used for analyzing non-polar and neutral molecules.

• Both techniques involve ionizing the sample molecules to create ions that can be analyzed by mass spectrometry.

• ESI is commonly used in proteomics and metabolomics research, while APCI is used in pharmaceutic...read more

Method validation involves testing and confirming the accuracy and reliability of a scientific method.

• Define the purpose and scope of the method validation

• Select appropriate validation parameters and acceptance criteria

• Perform experiments to demonstrate method accuracy, precision, specificity, and linearity

• Analyze and interpret the validation data

• Document the validation process and results

Oot stands for out of tolerance and QMS stands for Quality Management System.

• Oot refers to a situation where a measurement or result falls outside the acceptable range of values.

• QMS is a set of policies, processes, and procedures implemented by an organization to ensure quality in its products or services.

• Examples of QMS include ISO 9001 certification and Six Sigma methodologies.

rDNA technology tools and techniques involve manipulating DNA to create recombinant DNA molecules.

• rDNA technology involves cutting and splicing DNA from different sources.

• Common tools include restriction enzymes, DNA ligase, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

• Techniques like gene cloning, PCR amplification, and gene editing are used in rDNA technology.

• Examples include creating genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and producing recombinant proteins.

• rDNA technology has applic...read more

Different cloning methods include restriction enzyme cloning, PCR cloning, and Gibson assembly.

• Restriction enzyme cloning involves cutting DNA with restriction enzymes and ligating it into a vector.

• PCR cloning amplifies DNA fragments using polymerase chain reaction and inserts them into a vector.

• Gibson assembly is a method that joins DNA fragments with overlapping ends using a mix of DNA polymerase, exonuclease, and ligase.

Maxwell's equations describe how electric and magnetic fields interact in space.

• 1. Gauss's Law for Electricity: Describes how electric charges create electric fields.

• 2. Gauss's Law for Magnetism: Describes how magnetic fields are generated by magnetic sources.

• 3. Faraday's Law of Electromagnetic Induction: Describes how a changing magnetic field induces an electric field.

• 4. Ampère's Law with Maxwell's Addition: Describes how electric currents and changing electric fields creat...read more

I can contribute my research skills and knowledge to help your organization achieve its scientific goals.

• I have experience in designing and conducting experiments

• I can analyze and interpret data using statistical software

• I can write scientific reports and publish research papers

• I can collaborate with other scientists and contribute to team projects