I have a Skype interview for a physics PhD in Austria, and was wondering what level the questions are likely pitched at. While I have a Master's degree, it is from the UK and I am aware that students from mainland Europe tend to have done longer degrees with a heavier research component. For example, I skimmed a few of the Master's dissertations from students in the department I am applying to, and they all seem much more advanced and longer than my dissertation project.
Does anyone here know how the central-Europe PhD recruitment process works, ideally in physics (but also related fields)?
For example, are they more likely to focus on "soft questions" (why this group, why this university, etc) or are they likely to ask technical questions which require having read several papers by the prospective supervisor?
Does the format tend to be informal, with lots of questions and answers and chat, or is it the norm for applicants to prepare a verbal presentation on their thesis topic?
How much should I expect to be asked about my Master's dissertation, versus the project I'm applying to? My dissertation was in the same field as the PhD, but a very different project topic.
Are there any other "academic etiquette" things I should be aware of for such an interview? For example, would it be considered rude to ask about other opportunities for collaboration outside the department?
Thanks for any help.