[denzil_correa]

> That conversation could convey the character of the candidate but I couldn't evaluate their ability to do new research.

It all depends on the questions asked to the candidate. You don't ask them about their research which is publicly available in any case. You ask them questions that let them reveal their thought process about their research. Now, it's up to the interviewer to come up with good questions to make this happen. The interviewer has to be well prepared and think about questions. You don't need to be an expert to ask good questions.

I'd like to reiterate that this applies to research/scientific position where pushing the boundaries is a crucial aspect of the job. In case you are looking for a very specific skillset, things may be different.