Corning Incorporated Research Scientist Interview Questions + Guide in 2025

Corning Incorporated is a leading innovator in materials science, dedicated to developing life-changing technologies that enhance the way the world interacts, works, learns, and lives.

The Research Scientist role at Corning involves applying advanced analytical techniques, particularly in mass spectrometry and chromatography, to analyze polymeric materials. Key responsibilities include designing and executing experiments, managing laboratory equipment, and contributing to the development of new processes or products. A successful candidate will demonstrate a blend of technical expertise in mass spectrometry, strong problem-solving and analytical skills, and the ability to work collaboratively within a multi-disciplinary team. Additionally, effective communication skills are essential for interacting with customers, presenting findings, and contributing to technical reports and intellectual property. The ideal candidate embodies Corning’s values of curiosity, purposeful invention, and commitment to solving real-world challenges through scientific innovation.

This guide aims to equip you with the necessary insights and preparation strategies to excel in your interview for the Research Scientist position at Corning.

The interview process for a Research Scientist at Corning Incorporated is structured and thorough, designed to assess both technical expertise and cultural fit within the organization.

1. Initial Screening

The process typically begins with an initial screening call conducted by a recruiter. This call usually lasts around 30 minutes and focuses on your background, experience, and motivation for applying to Corning. The recruiter will also provide insights into the company culture and the specifics of the Research Scientist role.

2. Technical Questionnaire

Following the initial screening, candidates may be required to complete a written technical questionnaire. This step is crucial as it allows the interviewers to gauge your technical knowledge and problem-solving abilities related to analytical chemistry and mass spectrometry.

3. Video Interview

Candidates who pass the technical questionnaire will then participate in a video interview with a panel of scientists. This interview often includes a discussion about your PhD research and relevant experiences. Expect questions that delve into your technical skills, particularly in mass spectrometry and chromatography, as well as your ability to apply these skills in practical scenarios.

4. Onsite Interview

The onsite interview is a comprehensive evaluation that typically spans one or two days. It begins with a presentation where you will discuss your research background and findings. This is followed by a series of one-on-one or panel interviews with various team members, including scientists, technical managers, and HR representatives. Each interviewer may have a unique style, but the focus will be on both technical and behavioral questions, assessing your problem-solving skills, teamwork, and ability to communicate complex ideas effectively.

5. Final Evaluation

After the onsite interviews, candidates can expect a follow-up from the hiring team within a week or so. This final evaluation will consider all aspects of your performance throughout the interview process, including your presentation, technical knowledge, and interpersonal skills.

As you prepare for your interview, it’s essential to be ready for the specific questions that may arise during these stages.

Here are some tips to help you excel in your interview.

Prepare a Strong Presentation

As a Research Scientist, you will likely be asked to present your previous research. Prepare a clear and concise presentation that highlights your key findings, methodologies, and the impact of your work. Tailor your presentation to showcase how your research aligns with Corning's focus on materials science and innovation. Be ready to answer questions that probe deeper into your methodologies and results, as interviewers will be interested in your analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Emphasize Your Technical Expertise

Given the technical nature of the role, be prepared to discuss your experience with mass spectrometry and chromatography in detail. Familiarize yourself with the specific techniques mentioned in the job description, such as ESI, MALDI, and GPC. Be ready to discuss not only your hands-on experience but also any challenges you faced and how you overcame them. This will demonstrate your technical proficiency and your ability to troubleshoot and innovate in a lab setting.

Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit

Corning values teamwork and collaboration across disciplines. Be prepared to discuss your experience working in multi-disciplinary teams. Highlight specific examples where you contributed to a team project, how you communicated with team members, and how you resolved any conflicts or challenges. This will show that you can work effectively in a collaborative environment, which is crucial for success in this role.

Understand the Company Culture

Corning emphasizes a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. Familiarize yourself with their core values and recent initiatives. During the interview, express your enthusiasm for contributing to a company that prioritizes purposeful invention and customer collaboration. This alignment with their culture will help you stand out as a candidate who is not only qualified but also a good fit for the organization.

Prepare for Behavioral Questions

Expect a mix of technical and behavioral questions. Prepare for behavioral questions by using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses. Reflect on your past experiences, particularly those that demonstrate your problem-solving abilities, leadership skills, and adaptability. Be ready to discuss your long-term goals and how they align with Corning's mission, as this will show your commitment to growth within the company.

Be Ready for Technical Assessments

You may encounter technical questionnaires or assessments during the interview process. Brush up on relevant concepts and be prepared to solve problems on the spot. This could include calculations or derivations related to your field. Practice explaining your thought process clearly, as this will demonstrate your analytical skills and ability to communicate complex ideas effectively.

Follow Up with Gratitude

After the interview, send a thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity to interview. Mention specific points from the conversation that resonated with you, reinforcing your interest in the role and the company. This not only shows professionalism but also keeps you top of mind as they make their decision.

By following these tips, you will be well-prepared to showcase your qualifications and fit for the Research Scientist role at Corning Incorporated. Good luck!

In this section, we’ll review the various interview questions that might be asked during a Research Scientist interview at Corning Incorporated. The interview process will likely focus on your technical expertise in analytical chemistry and mass spectrometry, as well as your problem-solving abilities and experience in a collaborative research environment. Be prepared to discuss your past research, methodologies, and how you can contribute to the team.

Technical Expertise

1. Can you explain the principles of mass spectrometry and its applications in polymer analysis?

Understanding the fundamentals of mass spectrometry is crucial for this role, as it directly relates to the analysis of polymeric materials.

How to Answer

Discuss the basic principles of mass spectrometry, including ionization, mass-to-charge ratio, and detection. Highlight specific applications in polymer analysis, such as molecular weight determination and structural characterization.

Example

“Mass spectrometry operates on the principle of ionizing chemical species and sorting the ions based on their mass-to-charge ratio. In polymer analysis, it is particularly useful for determining molecular weights and identifying structural features, which can inform the development of new materials.”

2. Describe a challenging experiment you designed and executed. What were the outcomes?

This question assesses your experimental design skills and ability to troubleshoot.

How to Answer

Provide a specific example of an experiment, detailing the objectives, methods, challenges faced, and the results. Emphasize your problem-solving approach.

Example

“I designed an experiment to analyze a new polymer blend using HPLC and mass spectrometry. The challenge was optimizing the separation conditions, which I addressed by adjusting the mobile phase composition. The outcome was successful, leading to a clearer understanding of the blend’s properties.”

3. How do you ensure the accuracy and reliability of your analytical results?

Accuracy and reliability are critical in research settings, especially in analytical chemistry.

How to Answer

Discuss the protocols you follow for calibration, validation, and quality control in your experiments. Mention any specific techniques or standards you adhere to.

Example

“I ensure accuracy by regularly calibrating my instruments and running control samples alongside my tests. I also follow established protocols for method validation, which includes assessing precision, accuracy, and reproducibility.”

4. What experience do you have with chromatography techniques?

Chromatography is a key technique in analytical chemistry, and familiarity with it is essential for this role.

How to Answer

Detail your experience with various chromatography techniques, such as HPLC, GPC, or GC, and how you have applied them in your research.

Example

“I have extensive experience with HPLC and GPC for analyzing polymer samples. In my previous role, I developed a method to separate polymer additives using HPLC, which improved our product formulation process significantly.”

5. Can you discuss a time when you had to troubleshoot an analytical instrument?

This question evaluates your technical problem-solving skills and hands-on experience.

How to Answer

Provide a specific instance where you encountered an issue with an instrument, how you diagnosed the problem, and the steps you took to resolve it.

Example

“During a routine analysis, I noticed inconsistent results from the mass spectrometer. I systematically checked the calibration and found a faulty ion source. After replacing it and recalibrating the instrument, the results returned to expected levels.”

Behavioral Questions

1. Describe a situation where you had to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team.

Collaboration is key in research environments, and this question assesses your teamwork skills.

How to Answer

Share an example of a project where you collaborated with individuals from different disciplines, focusing on your role and contributions.

Example

“I worked on a project with chemists and engineers to develop a new polymer material. My role involved conducting the analytical tests while coordinating with the engineers to ensure our findings aligned with their design requirements. This collaboration led to a successful product launch.”

2. How do you prioritize your tasks when managing multiple projects?

Time management is essential in research roles, and this question evaluates your organizational skills.

How to Answer

Discuss your approach to prioritizing tasks, including any tools or methods you use to stay organized.

Example

“I prioritize my tasks by assessing deadlines and the impact of each project. I use project management software to track progress and ensure that I allocate time effectively to meet all project milestones.”

3. Can you give an example of how you handled a conflict in a team setting?

Conflict resolution is an important skill in collaborative environments.

How to Answer

Provide a specific example of a conflict, how you approached it, and the resolution you achieved.

Example

“In a team project, there was a disagreement about the direction of our research. I facilitated a meeting where each member could express their views. By encouraging open communication, we reached a consensus on a hybrid approach that incorporated everyone’s ideas.”

4. What motivates you to pursue research in analytical chemistry?

This question helps interviewers understand your passion and commitment to the field.

How to Answer

Share your motivations, including any personal experiences or interests that drive your research pursuits.

Example

“I am motivated by the potential of analytical chemistry to solve real-world problems. My passion for understanding material properties and their applications in technology drives me to innovate and contribute to advancements in the field.”

5. What are your long-term career goals as a research scientist?

This question assesses your vision for your career and alignment with the company’s goals.

How to Answer

Discuss your aspirations, including any specific areas of research you wish to explore or leadership roles you aim to achieve.

Example

“My long-term goal is to lead a research team focused on developing sustainable materials. I aim to contribute to innovative solutions that address environmental challenges while advancing the field of materials science.”