Applied Scientist (Staff Level) Interview Preparation Guide - FAANG Standards

The Applied Scientist (Staff Level) interview process at FAANG companies is a rigorous 6-8 round evaluation spanning 4-6 weeks. It assesses your ability to conduct cutting-edge applied research, develop novel algorithms, mentor research teams, influence technical strategy, and drive complex ML/AI systems from conception to production. At Staff level, interviewers evaluate not just technical mastery but your ability to think strategically about research direction, collaborate across teams, and publish impactful work. The process combines coding challenges, deep ML theory assessment, research system design, presentation of your own research, leadership capabilities, and cultural fit with the organization's vision for AI research.