Interviews are one of the primary ways employers can get to know you by asking questions about your education, experience and skills. If youre looking to enter the field of clinical research, its important to understand how employers decide if the job is right for you. If youre interested in finding a new position as a CRA, or clinical research associate, you can increase your confidence in the interview by familiarizing yourself with some of the most common questions employers ask.
When interviewing for a CRA position, its likely that your interviewer may start the process by asking you some general questions. These questions typically have to do with your hobbies, interests and character. Employers ask these questions to get a better understanding of your work ethic and to determine if you match the workplace dynamic. Here are some common general interview questions you may encounter when searching for a CRA position:
Interviewers ask in-depth questions to understand your work methods, habits and ability to respond to unexpected or challenging situations. When answering these types of questions, try to incorporate examples that emphasize your strengths and confidence as a CRA. Here are some sample in-depth questions you may come across when interviewing for a clinical research position:
- Tell me about yourself? Keep it short and hand them a copy of your resume to look at while you give the penny-tour of your background and experience. …
- What are your salary requirements? …
- What percentage/amount of time are you willing to travel?
CRA Interview Questions | clinical research associate | biotechnology
7. If you weren’t working as a CRA, what would you be doing?
Your interviewer may ask this question to understand some of your other career interests outside of clinical research. When answering this question, try to offer an answer that remains in the industry of medicine or research to emphasize your commitment to the field.
Example: “I would probably be working as a medical assistant or nurse, as I have always been interested in working within the health sciences industry. I ultimately became a CRA because of my passion for research and experimentation, but helping save lives has always been my career goal.”
5. How important is attention to detail while working as a CRA?
Employers may ask this question to understand how you define the responsibilities of a CRA. When answering this question, try to emphasize the importance of attention to detail and provide examples of how you incorporate it into your daily duties.
Example: “Attention to detail is extremely vital for a clinical trial to yield accurate and relevant results. As researchers, its important that we remain organized and double-check all of our data entries and follow safety protocols when handling test subjects.”
4. What’s something about a previous employer that you would change if given the opportunity?
You may encounter this question because employers want to know about your past job experiences and how you handle challenging situations with management. Try to give a response that maintains a positive tone and emphasizes your respect for those in executive positions.
Example: “My last employer dedicated his life to his job and often worked late hours. This resulted in him sending out our schedules after midnight the day before our new work week began. I enjoy going to bed early and getting a full nights rest before work, so this is something I found to be slightly inconvenient. I wouldve preferred if the schedule went out by 8 p.m. at the latest.”
