Fairly heavy on engineering with an emphasis on inclusivity and problem solving. I had some situational questions that involved math and logic. Overall they just wanted to see if I was a good fit for the team.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
What was your biggest mistake and how did you correct it?
I applied online. The process took 4 months. I interviewed at Merck
Interview
The first round was a telephone screening with their HR person - pretty standard. Then I had an in-person interview at the site. The in-person interview consisted of 4 individual interviews, each lasting about 45 minutes each, one of which was the hiring manager.
We mostly went over my resume and experience, and had a good conversation about how the team envisions the new hire helping out with the team. One of the more relaxed interviews I've had. The whole process did take a while though if you're applying during the winter holiday because Merck has a year-end shutdown. From my applying online to my start date was about 4 months, which is pretty consistent with big Pharma in the area.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Mostly went over my resume, and why I was considering leaving my current position. There were some leadership / team questions and a few questions on why they should pick me over other candidates. Overall, it was consistent with corporate interview structure and pre-picked questions.
I applied through a recruiter. I interviewed at Merck
Interview
The interview process lasted over 2-3 months and went by quite quickly. Below was the interview process I experienced.
1. Initial phone screening with HR
2. phone interview with hiring manager
3. panel interview with hiring manager and other team members
First, there was a 30-min call with the recruiter. This was a really basic interview with all the expected questions you probably don't have to prepare much for - Are you employed, and if so, why are you looking to leave your job? What attracted you to the role? Do you live in the area? What do you know about the subject matter / how many years of experience do you have in the subject matter? Would you be available to work in such and such month? That kind of thing.
Next, there were two 1-hour panel interviews. At least of one these will have the Hiring Manager and 1 or 2 other people on the team. The other panel was just 1 person for me - another scientist I think I'd work with but maybe not be in direct contact with daily.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Many questions were specific to the role, several requesting the STAR format. You should definitely be prepared to "introduce yourself" and have your strengths/weaknesses ready to share.