Science and Technology Facilities Council interview questions

After submitting your CV, you may be invited to a recorded video interview. There were five questions, with only one attempt allowed for each. My questions included: – Why STFC? – Sustainability challenges for ISIS Neutron and Muon Source – A technical achievement – A couple of basic heat‑transfer questions (e.g., heating water and phase changes) If successful, the next stage is the assessment centre. Assessment Centre Structure: - Group Activity: Our task was a wilderness survival scenario where we had to agree on a plan as a team. If time allows, you may be asked to present your group’s outcome to the recruitment team. - Site Tour: This part was unassessed but useful for understanding the environment. - Technical Interview: – You prepare a short presentation about a project and your individual contribution. – Most of the interview focused on fundamentals: materials, mechanics, thermodynamics, and FEA. – Example questions included: how a thermos works, reaction forces in a bike frame, tension/compression in members, tyre spokes, suitable materials and manufacturing processes, basic FEA steps, and a design case study (mine was designing a child bike seat from concept to manufacturing). – Technical interview carries significant weight, so prepare well. - General Interview: – Motivation for STFC and the role – STAR‑based questions (achievement, difficult decision, innovative solution, etc.) – Opportunity to ask your own questions - Graduate Q&A Session: – Informal chance to speak with current graduates. Overall, it was a competitive process. I learned a lot from the experience and wish the best of luck to anyone preparing for it.

Video interview where you film your answer under timed conditions. It was a timed interview. They want you to first introduce yourself first and then there can be different questions.