Those that applied for the Mana Tūānuku Research Leader Fellowship (one of the Aotearoa New Zealand Tāwhia te Mana Research Fellowships) will know that shortlisting results have been released. What does this mean? For some, it means it is time to prepare for interviews. Here's a few tips for getting yourself ready for a grant interview - this is helpful across funders, so will be relevant even if you aren't specifically focused on the Mana Tūānuku.
The interview stage is your chance to demonstrate your ability to be an effective scientific communicator, so the point is really for you to share your passion with the panel. Don't be afraid to be yourself, and really share what drives you as a person and a researcher - those are the things that will help set you apart.
Here's five tips to get you started:
Start with an introduction: Be prepared to offer an introduction - there are many ways to do this so decide what feels authentic to you. Lots of great resources online such as reomaori.co.nz, who say "A mihi (or mihimihi) is an introduction which can take place at the beginning of a gathering or meeting. It is used to establish links with other people present and let people know who you are, and where you come from." Hop on the link above to learn more. If you would like to provide a more formal pepeha or other introduction, this is great and for interviews with strict time criteria, many panels will allow extra time to support a formal introduction - so don't hesitate to ask. Aside from your introduction, most funding interviews start with you sharing a few minutes about your career journey and research to date. Be ready to do this and highlight your key successes. Don't be afraid to sell yourself up - that is the whole point of the interview, after all.
Be ready to share a lay summary of your proposal: The classic question is as follows - "How would you explain your project to an Uber driver?" Be ready to share a quick 'elevator pitch' that captures the essence of your research and why it matters. Summarise your project’s purpose and main objectives. Share the impact it will have for both Aotearoa NZ and for your career. This is a great thing to practice with friends and whānau - make sure they understand your key points, are interested, and it stays under a few minutes.
Know how to answer the 'Why You and Why Now?' questions: Competition is tough, so throughout your interview, you need to make the case why you should be funded out of the shortlist of applicants. This can be done well by understanding your point of difference - do you know a certain methodology, or are you a link in a unique cross-disciplinary collaboration? Be prepared to share that thing that sets you apart, and then highlight this in action by sharing specific achievements to date in your career (like awards, publications, or innovative methods). Feel free to emphasise both formal and informal leadership roles - panels know that many ECRs may not have as many formal leadership opportunities, so discuss contributions to your field and community that show your trajectory is on the rise. (e.g., like leading a team, collaborating with diverse groups, leadership in Mātauranga Māori or community projects). The 'why now' question, however, is almost even more important to sell. You need to consider why this year (of all years you may be eligible for the fund) is the most important time for your success - and articulate this. Are you developing a new international collaboration, or leading a new line of research where time is of the essence to be a thought-leader in the space? Put some thinking around why you need to be funded now, and it will make your pitch all the stronger.
Be clear that you couldn't do this work without the funding: Be clear that this specific funding is essential for the success of your project. Many finalists in prestigious grant rounds may already have strong networks, resources, and support to continue parts of their work, even without additional funding. However, this is not a compelling case for funders who must allocate limited resources among many talented applicants. Make it clear that this project cannot proceed in its full scope without this grant. One example to demonstrate this is by emphasising how the funding would allow you to protect dedicated research time. At this level, many high-calibre applicants are often balancing numerous professional obligations, making focused research time a rare opportunity - for most, the opportunity is around having the time to dedicate to this significant research to help move it along in a more efficient and effective way.
If it is an online interview, practice the logistics: For online interviews, take the time to setup a pleasing background, a good camera angle/lighting and test out the online call a time or two beforehand. Nothing like an unexpected update or weird backlighting to throw you off. Log in well ahead of time and have a notepad and glass of water handy if you need it.
Finally, a few sample interview questions - take time to practice saying your answers out loud so you can feel smooth and confident ahead of time.
“What does success look at the end?”
Paint a picture of your project’s long-term effects. Describe how the research outcomes will advance understanding, create policy changes, or benefit the community. For instance, if your project involves healthcare, illustrate how it could improve access to services or outcomes for specific populations.
“Describe a leadership opportunity you are most proud of"
Choose an example that showcases not only your achievements but also your problem-solving skills and impact on others. Explain why the experience was significant and what it taught you about leading in research or community settings.
“How does your project bring tangible benefits to Māori?"
Describe specific, concrete benefits your project will provide to Māori communities. Share examples of past collaborations and co-design efforts with Māori partners or stakeholders, highlighting meaningful outcomes. Outline realistic plans for public engagement and communication, including community outreach, sharing findings on public platforms, or other relevant co-designed outputs.
Best of luck in your preparation, and don't forget to take a deep breath. Panels usually encourage an informal style, so listen carefully to questions, pause if needed to gather your thoughts, and be open about your research’s potential challenges as well as its promise. Break a leg!
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