I went through a multi-stage process that included an initial screening call, a research presentation, and a full day of 30-minute interviews with multiple stakeholders (including senior scientific staff). Communication and scheduling during the process were professional, and I received verbal confirmation that I would be offered the role. However, a few days later HR contacted me and said the position would actually be at a more junior level than what had been discussed, and that compensation would be adjusted accordingly. I did not receive a clear explanation for the change from the hiring side, and my follow-up email asking for clarification did not receive a response. My takeaway: the process itself was thorough, but the alignment on role level/title and compensation was not clear or consistent. Candidates may want to confirm role grade and compensation range early in writing to avoid surprises after a lengthy interview process.