Thermo Fisher Scientific Flashcards
1
Q
“What experience do you have with microbiology lab techniques?”
A
- Worked with PCR, gel electrophoresis, protein analysis, and microscopy during MSc research.
- Strong in pipetting, streaking, aseptic techniques, and sample handling.
- Ensured sample integrity and reproducibility while analyzing tau oligomer aggregation.
2
Q
“Have you worked in a GMP or regulated lab before?”
A
- Not GMP-certified, but followed strict protocols for data integrity, sterility, and accuracy.
- Understand documentation, traceability, and SOP adherence.
- Know that **consistency, safety, and accuracy **are critical in any lab setting.
3
Q
“How do you ensure accuracy and consistency in your lab work?”
A
- Follow SOPs carefully
- Double-check calculations.
- Maintain detailed, traceable lab records.
- Repeat experiments to confirm reproducibility and avoid variability.
- For example, in my MSc research, I worked with large datasets and used spreadsheets to track sample conditions and results.
4
Q
“Tell me about a time you had to troubleshoot an experiment or lab issue.”
A
- Problem: Gel electrophoresis after protease treatment—bands weren’t showing up.
- Action: Reviewed protocol, adjusted digestion conditions (increased incubation time), checked sample loading.
- Result: Optimized conditions and obtained clear, reproducible bands.
5
Q
“What would you do if you got an unexpected test result in a QC setting?”
A
1) Check for errors → Review sample handling, equipment, reagents.
2) Compare past data → Look for trends or inconsistencies.
3) Escalate if needed → Report to supervisor, collaborate on root cause.
6
Q
“Tell me about a time you worked as part of a team in a lab environment.”
A
- Worked in a team for MSc research, coordinating experiments and sharing data.
- Ensured clear communication to keep protocols consistent.
- Collaboration led to more reliable results and efficient workflow.
7
Q
“How do you handle repetitive tasks while maintaining accuracy?”
A
- I actually enjoy structured, methodical work where I can focus on precision.
- I Set small goals to stay engaged and track progress.
- Follow standard procedures to ensure consistency.
8
Q
“What would you do if you realized you made a mistake in an experiment?”
A
- Identify the mistake and assess if it affects results.
- If minor, correct and document it properly.
- If major, repeat experiment and inform supervisor if needed.
9
Q
“What would you do if a coworker wasn’t following lab protocols correctly?”
A
- First, observe to ensure you understand the situation.
- If minor, politely remind them of correct procedure.
- If serious, report it to maintain safety and compliance.
10
Q
“What would you do if you were struggling to meet a deadline?”
A
- Prioritize tasks based on urgency.
- Ask for help from teammates if needed.
- Communicate early about delays to manage expectations.
11
Q
“How do you maintain data integrity?”
A
- Record results immediately & accurately → No alterations.
- Ensure traceability → All changes are properly documented.
- Follow SOPs → Adhere to regulatory standards like GMP.
12
Q
“What is QbD (Quality by Design), and how is it implemented?”
A
- QbD = Proactive quality approach, not just testing at the end.
- It identifies key attributes & control variables for consistent quality.
- It’s implemented via risk assessment, process optimization, and monitoring.
13
Q
“Why do you want to work for Thermo Fisher?”
A
- Industry leader in scientific innovation & quality control.
- Passionate about microbiology, QC, and structured lab environments.
- Thermo Fisher’s work aligns with my skills in data integrity & compliance.I enjoy structured, process-driven environments where accuracy is essential.
14
Q
“Where do you see yourself in 3 years?”
A
- Growing within the QC team, gaining deeper expertise in GMP & quality control.
- Taking on more responsibility, possibly mentoring new team members.
- Contributing to process improvements in lab workflows.
15
Q
“Tell me about a time you had to resolve a conflict.”
A
- Disagreed with teammate on which analysis software to use (GraphPad vs Excel).
- Suggested comparing both methods & presenting results to supervisor.
- Outcome: Found the best approach & improved teamwork.
16
Q
Thermo Fisher 4is
A
- Integrity → Accurate data recording, strict protocol adherence.
- Intensity → Motivated to produce high-quality results.
- Innovation → Enjoy problem-solving and optimizing lab processes.
- Involvement → Thrive in team-based, collaborative environments.
17
Q
“What steps would you take to prepare and test a microbiological culture media?”
A
- Measure ingredients accurately, follow SOPs.
- Sterilize using an autoclave to prevent contamination.
- Perform QC testing (pH, sterility, growth promotion).
- Document results in the laboratory system.
18
Q
“What is aseptic technique, and why is it important?”
A
- Prevents contamination by microorganisms.
- Key techniques: Sterilizing surfaces, PPE use, precise sample handling.
** * Essential in QC to maintain product safety & test reliability**
19
Q
“What is the difference between Quality Control (QC) and Quality Assurance (QA)?”
A
- QC = Testing products to ensure they meet specifications.
- QA = Ensuring processes are designed to prevent defects.
- QA focuses on documentation & compliance, QC focuses on testing.
20
Q
“What is an Out-of-Specification (OOS) result, and how would you handle it?”
A
OOS = Test result outside predefined limits.
- Check for human error, repeat test if needed.
- Investigate equipment, reagents, and historical data.
- Escalate and document findings if issue persists.
21
Q
“Why is data integrity important in a QC lab?”
A
- Data integrity ensures that test results are accurate, complete, and traceable.
- In QC, any incorrect or altered data can lead to faulty product releases and regulatory non-compliance.
22
Q
“What are some common sources of contamination in a microbiology lab?”
A
Airborne particles, improper aseptic technique, unsterilized equipment, and cross-contamination from samples.
23
Q
“Why is pH testing important in microbiology media?”
A
pH affects bacterial growth—incorrect pH can prevent cultures from developing correctly.
24
Q
“What Is Your Weakness?”
A
One challenge I’ve had is that I sometimes get too focused on details, which can **slow me down when I need to step back and see the bigger picture. **
In my MSc research, I would spend extra time perfecting data analysis when the results were already valid. However, I’ve been working on balancing accuracy with efficiency by setting time limits for tasks and prioritizing key objectives.
24
"What Are Your Strengths?"
One of my biggest strengths is my attention to detail and ability to follow strict protocols. In my MSc research, I worked with protein analysis and had to ensure that every sample was processed under the exact same conditions to get reliable results. **I documented everything meticulously and double-checked my work to prevent errors.**
25
"What are the key components of culture media, and why are they important?"
1️⃣ Peptones & amino acids → Provide nitrogen & essential nutrients for bacterial growth.
2️⃣ Carbohydrates (e.g., glucose, lactose) → Serve as an energy source.
3️⃣ Salts & minerals → Maintain osmotic balance & provide essential ions (e.g., NaCl).
4️⃣ Buffering agents (e.g., phosphate, bicarbonate) → Maintain pH stability.
5️⃣ Agar (in solid media) → Acts as a solidifying agent (not metabolized by most bacteria).
6️⃣ Selective agents (optional) → Inhibit unwanted organisms (e.g., antibiotics in selective media).
7️⃣ pH indicators (in differential media) → Help identify bacterial metabolic activities.
e.g. Nutrient agar is a general-purpose solid medium supporting growth of a wide range of non-fastidious organisms. Typically consists of peptone, beef extract (or yeast extract), sodium chloride, and agar, all dissolved in distilled water
26
"What’s the difference between selective and differential media?"
**Selective Media:
**Supports growth of specific organisms while inhibiting others.
Contains inhibitory agents (e.g., antibiotics, dyes, salts).
**Differential Media:
**Allows multiple organisms to grow but distinguishes them based on metabolic differences.
Contains indicators (e.g., pH dyes) that change color based on bacterial activity.
27
"What's the difference between an OOS and an OOT?"
**✔ Out-of-Specification (OOS) Result:
**A test result falls outside the pre-defined acceptance criteria.
Requires immediate investigation (could indicate a defect in the product).
**✔ Out-of-Trend (OOT) Result:
**A result is still within specifications but shows an unusual pattern or drift.
Indicates a potential trend that could later cause failures.
28
"What are some common root causes of OOS results?"
1️⃣ Analytical Error → Incorrect pipetting, instrument failure, reagent degradation.
2️⃣ Sample Contamination → Poor aseptic technique, cross-contamination.
3️⃣ Operator Error → Mistakes in calculations, incorrect documentation.
4️⃣ Process Variability → Unexpected changes in manufacturing conditions.
5️⃣ Instrument Calibration Issues → If a balance, pH meter, or spectrophotometer is out of calibration.
6️⃣ Reagent or Media Issues → Expired, degraded, or improperly stored materials.
29
"What factors can affect the accuracy of a PCR reaction?"
* Primer design → Non-specific binding leads to errors.
* Template quality → Contaminants can inhibit polymerase.
* Annealing temperature → Incorrect settings affect efficiency.
* Reagent concentrations → Too much/little enzyme impacts results.
30
"Do you have experience working with SAP or other laboratory management software?"
* I haven’t used SAP specifically, but I have experience with **data management software** like Excel, MATLAB, R Studio and GraphPad/Prism.
* I am very comfortable learning new systems, and I understand the importance of accurate data entry and traceability in a regulated lab environment.
31
"How do you handle repetitive tasks while maintaining accuracy?"
* **Enjoy structured, methodical work where precision is key.**
* Set small goals to stay engaged and track progress.
* Follow standard procedures to ensure consistency.
32
"Are you comfortable working with PPE and handling hazardous materials?"
* Yes, I’m comfortable wearing PPE and following strict lab safety protocols.
* In my master's research, I worked **with biological samples and chemicals**, ensuring **proper handling and disposal according to safety guidelines.**
* I understand the importance of PPE in **preventing contamination and ensuring both personal and workplace safety.**
33
"How do you stay organised?"
* I love using spreadsheets to track my experiments, results, and deadlines.
* I also **prioritise tasks based on urgency and always double-check my work for accuracy.**
34
"Tell me about yourself"
* I recently completed my MSc in Genetic Manipulation & Molecular Cell Biology with Distinction.
* My research focused on tau protein aggregation in Alzheimer’s models, and I gained strong experience in microbio/molecular bio experimentation.
* **I thrive in organised lab environments where accuracy and precision are key**
35
"What methods do you use to ensure compliance with regulatory standards in your work?"
1️⃣ Strict SOP Adherence → Always follow established procedures.
2️⃣ Accurate Documentation → Maintain detailed, traceable records.
3️⃣ GMP/GLP Compliance → Ensure Good Manufacturing/Laboratory Practices.
4️⃣ Ongoing Training & Audits → Stay updated on regulations and internal audits.
36
"Explain your approach to troubleshooting equipment malfunctions in a laboratory setting."
1️⃣ Identify the issue → Check for obvious problems (error messages, power supply, calibration).
2️⃣ Reproduce the issue → Attempt to repeat the process safely.
3️⃣ Check maintenance logs & SOPs → Review past servicing and troubleshooting guides.
4️⃣ Isolate possible causes → Consider sample issues, software/hardware failures, or operator errors.
5️⃣ Escalate if necessary → If unresolved, report to a supervisor or maintenance team.
