Expedia, Inc. Research Scientist Interview Questions + Guide in 2025

Expedia, Inc. is a leading online travel agency that empowers travelers to plan, book, and manage their travel experiences across the globe.

As a Research Scientist at Expedia, you will play a crucial role in utilizing data-driven approaches to enhance the user experience and optimize the company's offerings. Key responsibilities will include conducting rigorous analyses of large datasets, developing predictive models, and employing statistical techniques to inform product development and marketing strategies. You will collaborate with cross-functional teams, including product managers and engineers, to translate complex data insights into actionable recommendations that align with Expedia's goals of providing seamless travel solutions.

To excel in this role, you should possess strong analytical skills, proficiency in programming languages such as Python or R, and a solid foundation in statistics and machine learning. Experience with A/B testing, data visualization, and the ability to communicate findings effectively to non-technical stakeholders are also essential traits. A strong understanding of the travel industry and a passion for improving customer experiences through data will make you a great fit for this position.

This guide will help you prepare for your interview by providing insights into the expectations and competencies that Expedia values in its Research Scientists, allowing you to present yourself as a well-rounded candidate.

The interview process for a Research Scientist at Expedia is structured and can be quite extensive, reflecting the company's commitment to finding the right fit for their team. The process typically includes several stages, each designed to assess different aspects of a candidate's qualifications and compatibility with the company culture.

1. Initial Screening

The process begins with an initial screening, which usually involves a phone call with a recruiter. This conversation is focused on understanding your background, skills, and motivations for applying to Expedia. The recruiter will also provide insights into the company culture and the specifics of the Research Scientist role.

2. Online Assessment

Following the initial screening, candidates are often required to complete an online assessment. This assessment typically includes coding challenges and may involve problem-solving tasks relevant to the role, such as statistical analysis or algorithmic questions. The assessment is designed to evaluate both technical skills and cognitive abilities.

3. Technical Interviews

Candidates who successfully pass the online assessment will move on to one or more technical interviews. These interviews are usually conducted via video conferencing and may involve coding exercises, system design questions, and discussions about past projects. Interviewers will assess your technical expertise, problem-solving skills, and ability to communicate complex ideas clearly.

4. Behavioral Interviews

In addition to technical assessments, candidates will participate in behavioral interviews. These interviews focus on your past experiences, teamwork, and how you handle challenges in a professional setting. Expect questions that explore your approach to conflict resolution, stakeholder management, and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.

5. Final Interview

The final stage often involves a more in-depth discussion with the hiring manager or a panel of interviewers. This round may include a presentation of a project or analysis you have completed, allowing you to showcase your research skills and thought process. The interviewers will be looking for your ability to articulate your findings and how they relate to the company's goals.

Throughout the process, candidates should be prepared for a mix of technical and behavioral questions, as well as potential case studies or presentations. The overall experience is designed to be thorough, ensuring that both the candidate and the company can make informed decisions about the fit for the role.

As you prepare for your interviews, consider the types of questions that may arise in each stage of the process.

Here are some tips to help you excel in your interview for the Research Scientist role at Expedia, Inc.

Understand the Interview Structure

The interview process for this role typically involves multiple stages, including an online assessment followed by several rounds of interviews. Be prepared for a mix of behavioral and technical questions, as well as coding challenges that may involve platforms like HackerRank or LeetCode. Familiarize yourself with the structure and types of questions you might encounter, as this will help you manage your time and expectations during the interview.

Prepare for Behavioral Questions

Expect to answer behavioral questions that assess your problem-solving skills, teamwork, and ability to handle difficult situations. Use the STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) method to structure your responses. Reflect on your past experiences, particularly those that demonstrate your ability to work with diverse teams, manage conflicts, and adapt to changing priorities. Given the emphasis on collaboration at Expedia, showcasing your interpersonal skills will be crucial.

Brush Up on Technical Skills

As a Research Scientist, you will likely face technical questions related to statistics, A/B testing, and data analysis. Be prepared to discuss your experience with these concepts and how you have applied them in previous roles. Additionally, practice coding problems that focus on algorithms and data structures, as these are common in technical interviews. Make sure you can explain your thought process clearly while solving problems, as communication is key.

Showcase Your Analytical Thinking

During the interview, you may be asked to analyze data or present findings from previous projects. Be ready to discuss your analytical approach, the tools you used, and the impact of your work. If you have experience with A/B testing or similar methodologies, be prepared to explain how you measured success and what metrics you considered. This will demonstrate your ability to derive actionable insights from data.

Engage with the Interviewers

Interviews at Expedia are often described as conversational. Take this opportunity to engage with your interviewers by asking insightful questions about the team, projects, and company culture. This not only shows your interest in the role but also helps you assess if the company aligns with your values and career goals. Remember, interviews are a two-way street.

Be Mindful of Company Culture

Expedia values collaboration and innovation, so be sure to convey your enthusiasm for working in a team-oriented environment. Highlight experiences where you contributed to a team’s success or where you took the initiative to drive a project forward. Additionally, be aware of the company’s recent developments and how they relate to the role you are applying for, as this will demonstrate your genuine interest in the company.

Follow Up Professionally

After your interviews, consider sending a thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity to interview. This is a chance to reiterate your interest in the role and briefly mention any key points from the interview that you found particularly engaging. A thoughtful follow-up can leave a positive impression and keep you on the interviewers' radar.

By preparing thoroughly and approaching the interview with confidence and curiosity, you can position yourself as a strong candidate for the Research Scientist role at Expedia, Inc. Good luck!

In this section, we’ll review the various interview questions that might be asked during a Research Scientist interview at Expedia, Inc. The interview process will likely assess a combination of technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and behavioral competencies. Candidates should be prepared to discuss their past experiences, technical knowledge, and how they approach challenges in a collaborative environment.

Technical Skills

1. Can you explain the difference between OLAP and OLTP?

Understanding the distinction between these two types of data processing systems is crucial for a Research Scientist role, especially in data analysis.

How to Answer

Discuss the characteristics of both systems, emphasizing their use cases and how they handle data differently.

Example

“OLAP, or Online Analytical Processing, is designed for complex queries and data analysis, often used in business intelligence. In contrast, OLTP, or Online Transaction Processing, is optimized for transaction-oriented applications, focusing on speed and efficiency for daily operations.”

2. Describe a time you used A/B testing in your research. What were the results?

A/B testing is a common method for evaluating the effectiveness of changes in products or services.

How to Answer

Share a specific example, detailing the hypothesis, methodology, and outcomes of the A/B test.

Example

“I conducted an A/B test to evaluate two different user interface designs for our booking platform. The test revealed that the new design increased user engagement by 25%, leading to a decision to implement it across the board.”

3. How do you measure if your test group is performing better than the control group?

This question assesses your understanding of statistical significance and metrics.

How to Answer

Explain the statistical methods you would use to analyze the data and determine the effectiveness of the changes.

Example

“I would use a t-test to compare the means of the two groups, ensuring that the results are statistically significant. Additionally, I would track key performance indicators such as conversion rates and user satisfaction scores.”

4. What is your experience with machine learning algorithms? Can you give an example of how you applied one?

Machine learning is increasingly important in data analysis and research.

How to Answer

Discuss specific algorithms you have used and the context in which you applied them.

Example

“I have experience with decision trees and random forests. In a project analyzing customer behavior, I used a random forest algorithm to predict churn rates, which helped the marketing team target at-risk customers effectively.”

5. Explain how you would approach a complex data analysis problem.

This question evaluates your problem-solving skills and analytical thinking.

How to Answer

Outline your step-by-step approach to tackling data analysis challenges.

Example

“I would start by clearly defining the problem and identifying the data needed. Next, I would clean and preprocess the data, followed by exploratory data analysis to uncover patterns. Finally, I would apply appropriate statistical methods or machine learning models to derive insights.”

Behavioral Questions

1. Tell me about a time when you worked with a difficult stakeholder. How did you resolve the conflict?

This question assesses your interpersonal skills and conflict resolution abilities.

How to Answer

Provide a specific example, focusing on your communication and negotiation skills.

Example

“I once worked with a stakeholder who was resistant to a proposed change. I scheduled a meeting to understand their concerns and presented data supporting the change. By addressing their worries and showing the potential benefits, we reached a compromise that satisfied both parties.”

2. How do you handle shifting priorities in a project?

Flexibility is key in a dynamic work environment.

How to Answer

Discuss your strategies for adapting to changes and maintaining productivity.

Example

“When faced with shifting priorities, I reassess my current tasks and communicate with my team to realign our goals. I prioritize tasks based on urgency and impact, ensuring that we remain focused on delivering value.”

3. Describe a project you led that failed. What did you learn from it?

This question evaluates your ability to learn from setbacks.

How to Answer

Be honest about the failure, focusing on the lessons learned and how you applied them in future projects.

Example

“I led a project to implement a new data analysis tool, but we underestimated the training required for the team. The project fell short of expectations. I learned the importance of thorough training and stakeholder engagement, which I applied in subsequent projects to ensure better outcomes.”

4. Discuss a time when you had to build consensus among team members.

Collaboration is essential in research roles.

How to Answer

Share an example that highlights your teamwork and leadership skills.

Example

“In a cross-functional project, team members had differing opinions on the approach. I facilitated a meeting where everyone could voice their perspectives. By synthesizing the ideas and focusing on our common goal, we reached a consensus that incorporated the best elements from each viewpoint.”

5. What motivates you in your work?

Understanding your motivations can help the interviewer gauge your fit within the company culture.

How to Answer

Reflect on what drives you professionally and how it aligns with the company’s mission.

Example

“I am motivated by the opportunity to solve complex problems and make data-driven decisions that impact the business. Working at Expedia, where data plays a crucial role in enhancing customer experiences, aligns perfectly with my passion for research and innovation.”