If you had accepted a TA position after interview and were then shortlisted for a better job 3 days later what would you do? Hypothetical, since hasn’t happened as yet, however I am applying for two roles which have closing dates a few days apart. Both are good jobs, however the latter is a much easier commute just south of Bath. I may not even be successful at interview for job 1 or shortlisted for job 2, however job 2 would shade it purely because of travel time.
I wouldn’t want to waste anyone’s time, however equally it would be a shame to turn down a more suitable job.