In my other comment I mentioned that each one had a different topic focus: stats, epidemiology, soft skills, and even one brief coding interview. There was also a presentation I had to give that was to the whole group, so there was still a large- group portion. Most of the sessions had 2 people as well.

I think this way is less intimidating for the interviewee, saves time for the interviewers, and builds in some natural breaks. Having been on both sides, I prefer this to one 2hr+ session with all 8-10 people. This is especially true when the candidate gets a chance to ask questions, as they can see the different answers, and they might feel more comfortable asking something to a future collaborator but not a future boss.

It isn’t that bad, there was some overlap but each one had a specific topic as well. One interviewer focused on my stats knowledge, one on my epidemiology, one on the more soft skills / personality fit, etc.

Having been hired and now sat on the other side of multiple similar interviews, it’s in large part to make sure the candidate gets good face time with most of the team members they will be working with.

Now, the one that did piss me off was the employer I interviewed at right before landing my current job. I went through the first 30 minute manager screen, then the second round “full circuit” including a 1 hr presentation by me (4-5 hours total over 1-2 days), AND THEY GHOSTED ME. I even sent an email to two different interviewers in the following weeks, the first one asking for any update, and the second one just asking for feedback on how I might improve (since I clearly did not impress them). No response. Fuck you, NanoString.

I'd much rather do that than drive back there five times to have the same conversation.