How do you approach problem-solving when unexpected results occur in your experiments?

Your Answer

How To Answer This Question?

When answering this question, it's important to demonstrate your analytical thinking, adaptability, and methodical approach to problem-solving. Here's how you can structure your response:

1. Acknowledge the Importance of Unexpected Results: Start by explaining that unexpected results are a natural part of scientific research and can lead to significant discoveries.

2. Describe Your Initial Reaction: Share how you stay calm and composed when faced with unexpected results. Emphasize the importance of maintaining a positive attitude and being open to new possibilities.

3. Detail Your Problem-Solving Process: Outline the steps you take to address the unexpected results. This might include:

4. Re-evaluating the experimental design and methodology to identify any potential errors.
5. Conducting a thorough literature review to see if similar results have been reported and how they were addressed.
6. Consulting with colleagues or mentors to gain different perspectives and insights.

7. Designing and conducting follow-up experiments to test new hypotheses.

8. Provide a Specific Example: Share a real-life example from your past experience where you encountered unexpected results and successfully navigated the situation. Highlight the outcome and what you learned from the experience.

9. Emphasize Continuous Learning: Conclude by mentioning how you view unexpected results as opportunities for learning and growth, and how they contribute to your development as a scientist.

Example:

"In my previous role, I was working on developing a new formulation for a drug, and during the stability testing phase, we observed an unexpected degradation of the active ingredient. Initially, I ensured that all the testing equipment was functioning correctly and reviewed the experimental protocol for any deviations. After confirming that the methodology was sound, I conducted a literature review and found that a similar issue had been reported with a related compound. I then consulted with a senior scientist, and we hypothesized that the degradation might be due to a specific interaction with one of the excipients. We designed a series of follow-up experiments to test this hypothesis, which ultimately led us to identify and replace the problematic excipient, resulting in a stable formulation. This experience taught me the importance of thorough investigation and collaboration in problem-solving."