I applied for a role in the RACE department (robotics). The process started with my application on their webpage in March. I got the offer in early July. The process is very straightforward although slow. One round of screening interview asking about my experience and basic knowledge of software engineering best practices. After that in June I was invited to a final interview with a panel of 3. I was first asked to prepare a presentation titled “why you should hire me” And then discussions about my experience and easy technical questions. I was then asked question about inclusion and diversity Last question was : what salary do you want. And I said I wanted the top of their range - 50k£ After 4 weeks they came back saying that they were offering me 35 as I did not have leadership competences for a higher salary - I have 15 years experience I refused and they kept insisting with 2 mails saying that I was going to get an amazing career path and loads of experience. I personally know people in the department and getting a promotion is impossible. You have to wait until people retire or leave. I wasted 3 months!