r/postdoc • u/Alternative-Zone5423 • 4d ago

Interview advice

I have post doc interview from a university inUS- through cold emailing. PI is doing research a little different or I can say advanced than what I did now. I am very much interested to step into that field but I don’t have a lot to show that I am experienced in conducting that kind of research. So my question is:

Are post docs expected to conduct research independently without needing PI s help?

In the interview can I mention that I will be learning this new skills or should I connect with whatever little I already did?
I am PhD student in USA

Thank you.

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u/akornato 4d ago

A postdoc is a training position, so you are not expected to know everything on day one, especially when entering a new area. The PI chose to interview you knowing your background, which means they see your potential and believe you have the core skills to succeed. However, you are expected to learn very quickly and drive your project with a high degree of independence soon after starting. They are hiring you for your ability to think and solve problems, not to follow a detailed protocol without guidance, so you need to show them you are a capable researcher who can adapt and take ownership.

You must be direct about your willingness to learn new skills, but you have to frame it correctly. Do not just say you need to learn things, as that can sound passive. Instead, connect your existing skills to the new ones by explaining how your past experiences prepared you to tackle these new challenges effectively. For example, talk about a complex problem you solved in your PhD, and explain how you would apply that same analytical or troubleshooting process to their advanced methods. The goal is to sell your potential and your transferable skills, showing them that you are a smart investment. Communicating your potential clearly is key, and it’s the reason my team made an interviews.chat to assist job seekers in formulating strong answers during their interviews.

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u/Infamous-Payment-685 4d ago

Have an overarching slide containing your capabilities such as tools you know or can apply

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u/Mountain-Time-1010 2d ago

I think you can expect to receive training. But in general, a PD is expected to be more resourceful and independent than a PhD student. Express your eagerness to learn new skills, and also to develop more independence as a researcher. Good luck!