Interview tips for academic positions:{5}
I found maybe some interview tips might be useful for grad students seeking academic jobs and so I started searching for it and here I share the summery of what I got:
The academic interviews are usually 1.5 to 2 days and the candidate should give a talk and 30 minute meetings from breakfast through dinner. Be positive and think of yourself as a faculty member from the time you start applying for jobs. Do some research about the university, department, the program and probably the people interviewing you then you can come up with ideas how to have future contribution for the department. Show enthusiasm and excitement to work in that university department and especially in that position.
The top 4 interview questions are as follows:
Describe your research:
- What research you will do next.
- What are the limitations of your research.
- What is the broader significance of your research.
- What will be the first research project for a student working with you.
How will you teach:
- What are the courses you like to teach and how will you teach them.
- Certain courses especially the ones in your CV and you think you can teach.
- How your research will effect your teaching.
Why do you want to work in this university:
- What are the interesting things about the university you completed your degree in.
- In what ways you can contribute to the department.
Do you have any questions:
- You can come up with, What, in particular, are you looking for in filling this position?
- What research funds are available at different levels of the university?
- What, in particular, are you looking for in filling this position?
- What type of summer support is available?
You should speak with pride a bout your achievements and accomplishments in your research. Take responsibility for the work you have accomplished. For the questions about the marital status, family, religion and etc, you can answer and say that it doesn’t affect the job or you can say that it makes you feel uncomfortable
April 26, 2016 @ 10:33 pm
Thank you for the information! I heard that there are lunch or dinner interviews as well to check out the applicant’s table manner and character as a colleague.
April 26, 2016 @ 10:53 pm
These are great tips when going into an interview! I think another important aspect of interviewing for any position, but especially in academia is your presence when meeting the department. Make sure to get enough rest so you are present when speaking with faculty. Also, make sure your body language is comfortable and welcoming. These are minor details, but will overall make you a much better candidate.
April 28, 2016 @ 1:09 am
It’s a great and useful information, these information is kind of self-development which is a lifelong process. I completely agree and recommend anyone who looking for academic position to read this kind of questions because it’s a way to assess your skills and qualities. Finally, self-development should not stop later in life.
Thank you very much
May 1, 2016 @ 9:03 pm
I am glad you were looking for information too. I also spent one of my blog posts pulling information from about 9 different universities regarding this topic. I learned even more from your post.
May 2, 2016 @ 7:38 pm
It is a great post! Thanks for sharing those useful tips. It is really helpful for those who are trying to find an job, just like me.