MSD Research Scientist Interview Questions + Guide in 2025

MSD is a leading company dedicated to advancing life sciences through innovation in clinical and biodefense applications.

As a Research Scientist at MSD, you will play a pivotal role in a collaborative, multi-disciplinary environment. Your key responsibilities will include designing system components, conducting feasibility testing, and evaluating the performance of both individual components and complete systems. You will be involved in hands-on laboratory work, experimental planning, data analysis, and the development of new hardware and consumable systems. Additionally, you will be responsible for procuring and testing new materials, validating test methods, and ensuring compliance with quality and safety standards.

To excel in this role, a PhD in a science or engineering discipline is required, along with a strong foundation in analytical and problem-solving skills. Experience with biomolecule detection systems, design of experiments, and computer programming languages such as C++ and Python are highly preferred. Familiarity with CAD software and a creative, adaptable mindset will be essential in navigating the dynamic research environment at MSD.

This guide is designed to equip you with the insights needed to prepare effectively for your interview, allowing you to showcase your expertise and align your values with those of MSD.

The interview process for a Research Scientist at MSD is designed to assess both technical expertise and cultural fit within the organization. It typically unfolds in several structured stages, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of candidates.

1. Initial Screening

The process begins with an initial screening call, usually conducted by a recruiter or HR representative. This conversation lasts about 30 minutes and focuses on your background, motivation for applying, and alignment with MSD's values. Expect to discuss your previous experiences and how they relate to the role, as well as your understanding of the company and its mission.

2. Technical Interview

Following the initial screening, candidates typically participate in a technical interview. This round may involve one or more interviewers, including hiring managers or senior scientists. The technical interview assesses your knowledge in relevant scientific and engineering principles, as well as your problem-solving abilities. You may be asked to discuss specific projects you've worked on, including the methodologies used and the outcomes achieved. Be prepared for questions that require you to demonstrate your analytical skills and familiarity with laboratory practices.

3. Behavioral Assessment

In addition to technical skills, MSD places a strong emphasis on behavioral competencies. Candidates may undergo a behavioral assessment, which could include situational questions aimed at understanding how you handle challenges, collaborate with teams, and adapt to changing environments. This part of the interview process is crucial for evaluating your interpersonal skills and cultural fit within the organization.

4. Panel Interview

Some candidates may be invited to a panel interview, which involves multiple interviewers from different departments. This format allows for a broader assessment of your skills and how they align with various aspects of the company’s operations. You may be asked to present a case study or discuss a specific project in detail, highlighting your contributions and the impact of your work.

5. Final Interview

The final stage often includes a discussion with higher-level management or directors. This interview may focus on your long-term career aspirations, your understanding of MSD's strategic goals, and how you envision contributing to the company's success. It’s also an opportunity for you to ask questions about the company culture, team dynamics, and future projects.

Throughout the interview process, candidates should be prepared to discuss their technical expertise, past experiences, and how they can contribute to MSD's mission in the life sciences sector.

Next, let’s explore the types of questions you might encounter during these interviews.

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

Embrace the Conversational Atmosphere

The interview process at MSD is known for its positive and open dialogue. Approach your interviews as conversations rather than formal interrogations. This will not only help you feel more relaxed but also allow you to showcase your personality and adaptability. Be prepared to discuss your experiences in a narrative format, highlighting your problem-solving skills and how you’ve navigated challenges in past projects.

Prepare for Behavioral and Technical Questions

Expect a mix of behavioral and technical questions that assess both your competencies and your fit within the company culture. Reflect on your past experiences and be ready to discuss specific projects, the challenges you faced, and how you overcame them. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to structure your responses, ensuring you convey your thought process clearly.

Showcase Your Multi-Disciplinary Skills

Given the multi-disciplinary nature of the role, emphasize your ability to collaborate with diverse teams. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve worked with engineers and scientists in the past, and how you can contribute to the development of new products. Highlight any experience you have with biomolecule detection systems, design of experiments, or data analysis, as these are particularly relevant to the position.

Highlight Your Technical Proficiency

Technical knowledge is crucial for a Research Scientist role at MSD. Brush up on relevant technologies and methodologies, including LabVIEW, C++, Python, and CAD software like SolidWorks. Be ready to discuss your hands-on laboratory experience and any specific projects where you designed or implemented systems. This will demonstrate your capability to contribute effectively from day one.

Understand the Company’s Values

MSD places a strong emphasis on finding candidates who align with their values. Familiarize yourself with the company’s mission and recent initiatives. Be prepared to articulate why you want to work for MSD specifically and how your personal values align with theirs. This will show that you are not only interested in the role but also in being a part of the company’s culture.

Prepare for a Holistic Evaluation

The interview process at MSD includes a psychosocial evaluation, so be ready to discuss your personality traits and how they contribute to your work style. Reflect on your strengths and weaknesses, and think about how you can present them in a way that aligns with the company’s expectations. This holistic approach means that your interpersonal skills are just as important as your technical abilities.

Plan for Your First 90 Days

During the interview, you may be asked about your goals and plans for the first three months in the role. Think about how you would approach your onboarding, what you would prioritize, and how you would integrate into the team. This forward-thinking mindset will demonstrate your commitment to making a meaningful impact from the outset.

Follow Up Thoughtfully

After your interviews, send a thoughtful follow-up email thanking your interviewers for their time. Use this opportunity to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and the company, and to briefly mention any points from the conversation that particularly resonated with you. This not only shows your professionalism but also reinforces your interest in the position.

By following these tips, you will be well-prepared to navigate the interview process at MSD and present yourself as a strong candidate for the Research Scientist role. Good luck!

In this section, we’ll review the various interview questions that might be asked during a Research Scientist interview at MSD. The interview process will likely assess both your technical expertise and your ability to work collaboratively in a multi-disciplinary environment. Be prepared to discuss your previous projects, problem-solving approaches, and how you align with the company’s values.

Technical Skills

1. Can you walk us through a specific project where you designed and implemented a data pipeline? What challenges did you encounter, and how did you overcome them?

This question aims to evaluate your hands-on experience and problem-solving skills in a technical context.

How to Answer

Discuss the project in detail, focusing on your role, the technologies used, and the specific challenges faced. Highlight your problem-solving strategies and the outcomes of the project.

Example

“In my previous role, I designed a data pipeline for a clinical trial project. The main challenge was ensuring data integrity while integrating multiple data sources. I implemented a robust validation process and utilized Python for data transformation, which improved our data accuracy by 30%.”

2. What technologies would you consider for a multi-cloud solution in a research environment?

This question assesses your knowledge of cloud technologies and their application in research.

How to Answer

Mention specific technologies and explain why they are suitable for a multi-cloud solution, considering factors like scalability, security, and cost.

Example

“I would consider using AWS for its extensive services and Azure for its strong integration with Microsoft tools. Combining these with Google Cloud for data analytics would provide a robust, scalable solution that meets our research needs while optimizing costs.”

3. Describe your experience with biomolecule detection systems. What specific systems have you worked with?

This question evaluates your relevant experience in the field.

How to Answer

Detail your experience with specific systems, including any challenges you faced and how you addressed them.

Example

“I have worked extensively with ELISA and PCR systems. In one project, I optimized an ELISA protocol that reduced the assay time by 20%, which significantly improved our throughput in the lab.”

4. How do you approach experimental planning and documentation?

This question assesses your organizational skills and attention to detail.

How to Answer

Discuss your methodology for planning experiments, including how you document your processes and results.

Example

“I start by defining clear objectives and hypotheses. I use a lab notebook to document each step meticulously, ensuring that all data is recorded accurately. This approach not only helps in reproducibility but also aids in troubleshooting any issues that arise.”

5. Can you explain the importance of compliance with Quality System requirements in a laboratory setting?

This question tests your understanding of regulatory standards in research.

How to Answer

Explain the significance of compliance and how it impacts research outcomes and safety.

Example

“Compliance with Quality System requirements is crucial as it ensures the reliability and validity of our research results. It also protects the safety of personnel and the integrity of the data, which is essential for regulatory submissions.”

Behavioral Questions

1. Describe a situation where you had to collaborate with a diverse team to achieve a common goal. How did you navigate different perspectives?

This question evaluates your teamwork and interpersonal skills.

How to Answer

Share a specific example that highlights your ability to work with diverse teams and how you facilitated collaboration.

Example

“In a previous project, I worked with a team of engineers and biologists. I organized regular meetings to ensure everyone’s input was valued, which helped us merge our different perspectives into a cohesive strategy that led to a successful product launch.”

2. What was the biggest challenge you faced in your previous role, and how did you overcome it?

This question assesses your problem-solving abilities and resilience.

How to Answer

Choose a significant challenge, explain the context, and detail the steps you took to resolve it.

Example

“I faced a major setback when a key reagent failed quality control. I quickly sourced an alternative and re-ran the experiments, which required adjusting our timeline. This experience taught me the importance of having contingency plans in place.”

3. How do you prioritize tasks when working on multiple projects?

This question evaluates your time management and organizational skills.

How to Answer

Discuss your approach to prioritization and how you ensure deadlines are met.

Example

“I prioritize tasks based on urgency and impact. I use project management tools to track progress and regularly communicate with my team to adjust priorities as needed, ensuring that we stay aligned with our goals.”

4. Can you give an example of a time you had to adapt to a significant change in a project?

This question assesses your adaptability and flexibility.

How to Answer

Share a specific instance where you had to pivot and how you managed the transition.

Example

“During a project, we received new regulatory guidelines that required us to alter our testing methods. I quickly researched the new requirements, collaborated with my team to adjust our protocols, and we successfully met the new standards without delaying our timeline.”

5. Why do you want to work with MSD, and how do you see yourself contributing to our mission?

This question gauges your motivation and alignment with the company’s values.

How to Answer

Express your enthusiasm for the company and how your skills and experiences align with their goals.

Example

“I admire MSD’s commitment to innovation in life sciences. I believe my background in biomolecule detection and my collaborative approach will contribute to advancing your research initiatives, particularly in developing new diagnostic tools.”