The interview took place on Microsoft Teams and consisted of a previously seen presentation topic and a series of questions. My interviewers were late in starting, and in all honesty, were quite horrid-not what I would have expected from a so-called inclusive and diverse university. After my presentation, I was asked a series of questions about it before moving on to being asked more general questions related to the post. I was told there were about 8 questions but as there wasn't much time we'd have to move through them quite quickly. Given that they started me late, I would've expected extra time added to my slot to make up. This was clearly not given and during my attempts to answer questions I was continually interrupted and made to feel very uneasy. The interviewers did not give me any opportunity to ask questions and rather than giving me an indication of the timeframe before knowing, just told me to have a nice day. I obviously did not get the job, but was put on a register. Given how horrible my interviewers were, I would not take up any offer if received nor would I have any desire to work for Ulster University in the future. Having now looked at the university's website and staff in the department, it is clear the job was advertised as a matter of principle to promote two current employees, therefore the entire process was not fair in the slightest.

The interview may appear friendly, but don’t be misled. Even if they claim the questions will relate to your presentation topic, that’s often not the case. In many instances, the vacancies are already predetermined, and they’re simply looking for answers that align with their expectations. Openness and honesty are rarely appreciated in such scenarios. Given these dynamics, it might be best to reconsider applying.