June 2025
The hiring landscape in life sciences is evolving, and both employers and job seekers need to adapt. With a growing reliance on virtual interviews, skills-based assessments, and AI-driven screening, the hiring process is becoming more efficient—but face-to-face connections still play a vital role.
Companies are balancing speed and precision when selecting candidates, while job seekers must be prepared for a mix of remote and in-person interviews. Understanding these shifts can help businesses find the right talent and enable professionals to approach their job search with confidence.
How Many Job Interview Rounds Should You Expect?
The structure of interviews varies by company, but the general trend in 2025 suggests a streamlined, competency-based approach:
- Entry-level roles (lab assistants, research technicians): 1–2 rounds
- Mid-level positions (quality control analysts, regulatory specialists): 2–3 rounds
- Senior and leadership roles (principal scientists, directors): 3–5 rounds
Instead of prolonged interview processes, hiring managers are often focusing on assessing candidates’ technical skills, problem-solving ability, and cultural fit in fewer, more intensive conversations.
Remote vs. In-Person Job Interviews: What’s Changing?
Virtual hiring remains popular, but companies in life sciences understand the value of in-person interaction—especially for roles involving lab work or regulatory responsibilities. Here’s how the hiring process is shaping up:
- Early-stage interviews (screening calls, behavioral assessments): Mostly virtual via platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams.
- Technical assessments: Remote for roles focused on data analysis or computational tasks, but onsite for lab-based evaluations.
- Panel interviews and final rounds: Many companies now hope for in-person meetings, particularly for leadership positions.
- Onsite visits and facility tours: Still a requirement for jobs in manufacturing, clinical research, and compliance-heavy fields.
For job seekers considering remote positions, discussing expectations early is crucial. Hybrid work models are common, with many companies requiring occasional onsite visits for collaboration or equipment access.
How AI & Automation Are Changing Hiring
Hiring in life sciences is technology-driven, with companies using AI to speed up processes and improve candidate matching. Key advancements include:
- AI-powered resume screening: Algorithms help hiring teams identify qualified candidates quickly.
- Video interview technology: Some companies use structured, pre-recorded responses to gauge communication skills.
- Virtual job simulations: Candidates may be tested on real-world scenarios related to their role.
- Soft skills assessment: Employers are placing more emphasis on adaptability, emotional intelligence, and teamwork.
Job seekers should tailor their resumes to meet AI screening criteria and practice structured interview responses to stand out.
What Companies Look for in Life Science Professionals
Beyond technical qualifications, life science employers are searching for candidates who can drive impact and innovation. Expect interview discussions to focus on:
- Technical expertise: Methodologies, laboratory techniques, and problem-solving experience.
- Regulatory compliance: Understanding of FDA, GMP, GLP, and ISO guidelines.
- Research contributions: The tangible effects of your work in drug development, biotechnology, or medical advancements.
Our Takeaway
For job seekers, preparing for life science interviews in 2025 means being adaptable, tech-forward, and ready for both virtual and in-person interactions. For employers, leveraging AI tools while maintaining human connection will be key to hiring the best talent. As hiring continues to evolve, success will come from preparation, precision, and the ability to embrace new recruitment strategies.