Spectrophotometry

Term from Laboratory Work industry explained for recruiters

Spectrophotometry is a common laboratory method used to measure how much light passes through a sample, like a liquid or solution. It's similar to how sunglasses block certain amounts of light - but in a precise, scientific way. Lab technicians and scientists use this technique to figure out things like the concentration of substances in samples or to check the quality of products. It's a fundamental skill in many laboratories, especially in fields like chemistry, biology, environmental testing, and quality control. When you see this on a resume, it means the person knows how to operate laboratory instruments called spectrophotometers and can perform accurate measurements.

Examples in Resumes

Performed quality control testing using Spectrophotometry techniques for pharmaceutical products

Conducted water quality analysis through Spectrophotometric methods

Managed daily Spectrophotometer operations for chemical composition testing

Typical job title: "Laboratory Technicians"

Also try searching for:

Lab Technician Quality Control Analyst Analytical Chemist Research Assistant Laboratory Analyst Quality Assurance Technician Chemical Analyst

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you train new staff on spectrophotometry procedures?

Expected Answer: A senior technician should explain their approach to teaching safety protocols, proper instrument use, quality control procedures, and troubleshooting common problems. They should mention documentation and standard operating procedures.

Q: How do you ensure accuracy and reliability in spectrophotometric measurements?

Expected Answer: Should discuss calibration procedures, quality control standards, proper sample preparation, and maintenance of equipment. Should mention documentation and error checking processes.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What steps do you take when spectrophotometer readings seem incorrect?

Expected Answer: Should describe a systematic approach to troubleshooting: checking calibration, sample preparation, instrument cleanliness, and comparing with known standards.

Q: How do you maintain sample integrity during spectrophotometric analysis?

Expected Answer: Should explain proper sample handling, storage conditions, contamination prevention, and the importance of following standard procedures.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What safety precautions do you take when using a spectrophotometer?

Expected Answer: Should mention wearing proper protective equipment, handling chemicals safely, following laboratory protocols, and proper disposal of materials.

Q: Can you explain the basic steps of running a spectrophotometric analysis?

Expected Answer: Should describe sample preparation, blank measurement, calibration check, and basic measurement procedure in simple terms.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic operation of spectrophotometers
  • Sample preparation
  • Following standard procedures
  • Data recording and basic calculations

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Method development
  • Troubleshooting equipment issues
  • Quality control procedures
  • Data analysis and interpretation

Senior (5+ years)

  • Training and supervision
  • Method validation
  • Equipment maintenance and calibration
  • Quality system management

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No hands-on laboratory experience
  • Unfamiliarity with basic laboratory safety protocols
  • Inability to explain simple measurement procedures
  • No experience with quality control practices