I applied through a recruiter. The process took 1+ week. I interviewed at Neon Therapeutics (Cambridge, MA)
Interview
Very positive experience. Phone screen and then an on-site interview where I met with members of the group I’d be joining. It was pretty clear everyone loves working there. Ultimately, it was clear that I did not have the expertise they were looking for so I did not get the offer but I enjoyed making new connections and will certainly be checking back.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Equal mix of technical questions and EQ/personality questions.
I applied through a recruiter. The process took 3 weeks. I interviewed at Neon Therapeutics (Cambridge, MA) in Apr 2019
Interview
A recruiter whom I had been working with before contacted me about this job opportunity, although it was originally listed for an RA. The phone interview was super awkward, as the hiring manager literally opened the call with "do you have any questions for me?". Exciting science but very very young (age-wise) company. I met with about 3 groups of 2-3 very nice and honest RAs or Associate Scientists (most without PhDs) who were basically all under 30 years old. I was about 6 months out of my PhD, while the hiring manager was maybe 2 years out of hers, and her boss was about 5 years out. It certainly made me question the scientific expertise and guidance within the company. They are growing out of their lab space, with everyone working almost elbow to elbow. I took a tour of the lab and a scientist could barely open the freezer without potentially bumping someone with the door. Hoods are shared by probably 3-4 people and have to be booked ahead of time. They did not select me for the position and I had to go out of my way to email the internal recruiter/hiring manager for their decision. When I asked for feedback, I got no response.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Why are you interested in the role, etc. Basic feeling out for cultural fit questions.
I applied online. I interviewed at Neon Therapeutics
Interview
This review pertains to a phone screen only. After applying I was contacted to arrange a phone screen with recruiter. I worked previously with 2 of the founding scientists and also know a key employee that was instrumental getting Neon off the ground.
Interview questions [1]
Question 1
Persisted Demanding Salary History. Conducting Salary Survey of Applicants.
We were very surprised and disappointed to learn that this was your experience. We made it clear to the recruiting agency that we use many months ago that Neon would start complying with the Massachusetts law right away and not wait for the July 1st effective date. We reached out to the recruiting agency immediately upon reading your review and addressed the issue to ensure that it will not happen again. We apologize that your experience did not reflect Neon's intent and values, and we wish you well in the future.
