u/koolthings26778

I'm pursuing an MSc in Biotechnology from a lesser-known college in India. I want to transition into software/data/Al roles rather than stay in wet-lab biotech. I have a BSc Biotechnology background and am currently learning Python, SQL, Git/Linux and bioinformatics. If you were in my position, what skills and projects would you build over the next 12-18 months to become employable in software or data roles? Is this realistically possible without a CS degree, and which roles should I target first?

If anyone has actually attended PhD interviews at IISc, IITs, NIMHANS, NCBS, IISERs, etc., could you share the actual questions you were asked?

Especially:

What concepts did they test?

How deep did the follow-ups go?

Were there "why/what if/how would you test this?" questions?

Did they ask project/research-based or unfamiliar questions?

Please mention the institute + field if possible. I'm looking for real interview experiences, not generic preparation advice.

I'm pursuing an MSc in Biotechnology from a lesser-known college in India. I want to transition into software/data/Al roles rather than stay in wet-lab biotech. I have a BSc Biotechnology background and am currently learning Python, SQL, Git/Linux and bioinformatics. If you were in my position, what skills and projects would you build over the next 12-18 months to become employable in software or data roles? Is this realistically possible without a CS degree, and which roles should I target first?