Sample interview questions: Can you discuss your experience with techniques like gel electrophoresis or Western blotting?
Sample answer:
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Gel Electrophoresis:
- Expertise in performing gel electrophoresis techniques, including native gel electrophoresis, SDS-PAGE (sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis), and agarose gel electrophoresis, to separate and analyze proteins, nucleic acids, or other biomolecules based on their molecular size and charge.
- Proficient in preparing and loading samples, selecting appropriate gel percentages, running conditions, and staining methods to optimize resolution and detection of target molecules.
- Demonstrated ability to interpret gel electrophoresis results accurately, including identifying protein bands, DNA fragments, or RNA molecules of interest, and estimating their molecular weight or size.
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Western Blotting:
- Extensive experience in conducting Western blotting experiments to detect and analyze specific proteins in complex biological samples.
- Expertise in optimizing Western blotting conditions, including protein transfer efficiency, antibody selection and optimization, and chemiluminescent or fluorescent detection methods, to achieve high sensitivity and specificity.
- Proficient in using primary and secondary antibodies, understanding antibody-antigen interactions, and troubleshooting common issues related to Western blotting, such as non-specific binding or background signal.
- Demonstrated ability to interpret Western blot results accurately, including identifying target proteins, analyzing protein expression levels, and detecting post-translational modifications.
Additional Techniques: