Panel Interview (25 - 29 November 2024)
General comments
After successfully mastering the “application phase” where the assessment of candidates was primarily based on the material submitted in an online application (i.e. achievements, grades, references, interests…), in the subsequent steps, the gears will shift toward learning more about you as a person and as a scientist. Hence, the focus now will be more on your scientific and analytical skills as well as your interpersonal and communication skills.
Panel interviews are very important, as the respective panel committee will decide if a candidate will “pass” the panel and hence will be able to participate in the subsequent selection steps. In other words, a positive vote from your panel is necessary for you to continue with individual interviews and match-making procedures. Please keep in mind that we may ask you to participate in a second online interview with 1 or 2 PIs during the subsequent week (December 02 - 06, 2024). We will inform you of this in due time.
How are the panel interviews organized?
During the interview, you'll have the chance to present a current or recent research project you've worked on, and then engage in a discussion with our panel members. You may also be asked questions that test your analytical skills, creativity, and general knowledge
Your presentation should be a 5-minute overview of a research project you've worked on. This could be a project from your undergraduate or graduate studies, or a project you conducted during a lab rotation or internship. We expect you to have a deep understanding of your project, including its scientific context, methodology, and implications, and to be able to discuss these aspects confidently and clearly.
How should you prepare for your presentation?
To ensure a smooth and successful panel interview, please follow these guidelines:
Keep your presentation to 5 minutes, and you can use any presentation software that runs smoothly on your computer. We recommend a simple slide organization, with a cover slide, 1-2 introductory slides, 2-3 results slides, and a conclusion/acknowledgement slide. Make sure to practice your presentation before the panel interview to feel confident and prepared. Your presentation will be followed by a 10-15 minute Q&A session with the panel members.
Logistics
Ensure you have a fast and reliable internet connection, and that the use of the ZOOM platform is allowed in your country. If necessary, connect via VPN to ensure a smooth operation. Connect to the ZOOM platform at least 20 minutes before your scheduled panel interview and get your presentation up and running. The moderator will let you enter the ZOOM meeting to start your presentation. Please share your presentation screen on ZOOM before beginning to give your presentation. A technical support person from the coordination office will be present to help with any technical issues, but they will not participate in the discussion or decision-making process.
It's possible that an additional faculty member may join your panel session, but they will not be involved in the decision-making process.
Keep us up to date about unexpected changes
Should you be unable to participate in the panel interviews due to unexpected circumstances, please let us know as soon as possible, so that we can plan things accordingly.