How to Get Involved in Research

Talk to Professors

Most professors have ongoing research projects that involve students. Take the time to learn about their research programs. Read their websites and consider whether their research interests you. If you would like to explore opportunities to become involved in their research, email the professor directly to set up a meeting. When you contact a professor, be sure to include information about yourself (your skills and experience) and why you are interested in their research.

Network

Reach out to others to learn about research opportunities, such as:

• Your peers who are engaged in research.
• Laurier student societies.
• Academic advisors.
• Teaching assistants.
• Research centre directors.

Attend Events

There are countless research events that happen virtually and on campus. Events are often advertised on wlu.ca or departmental homepages or the Laurier events calendar. Most advertised events are open to the public. Keep your eyes open and don’t be shy!

Apply for an Undergraduate Student Research Award (USRA)

NSERC Undergraduate Student Research Awards (USRA) are intended to stimulate students’ interest in research in natural sciences and engineering. They are also meant to encourage undergraduates to continue on to graduate studies and pursue research careers in these fields. These awards assist students in gaining research work experience that complements their studies in an academic setting while receiving financial support.

USRA applications must be submitted by students and a faculty member as supervisor. Students must work with a faculty member in completing the application.

Other Research Awards

If you are a Brantford campus student, consider applying for a research apprenticeship. These are designed to allow an exceptionally qualified undergraduate student to work closely with a faculty member on a project of mutual interest.

Other external organizations also offer research awards to undergraduate and graduate students. Mitacs, for instance, offers programs that help fund student research internships and travel.

There are also many student awards and scholarships that are partly or wholly based on student research. For more information, see Scholarships, Awards and Bursaries (undergraduate students) and Graduate Funding and Awards.

Pursue an Honours Degree or a Graduate Degree

Many degrees offer an honours option that allows you to complete a research project that is overseen by a faculty member. Consider this option early in your degree and speak with your academic advisor if you are interested. Similarly, talk to your academic advisor if you are interested in pursuing a master’s or PhD. Most graduate programs – at Laurier and elsewhere – focus heavily on research.

Take Advantage of Research Specialization Courses

Laurier offers options that you can incorporate into your degree program. If you are interested in research, consider pursuing a research-related option.

The Applied Community Research course and internship offers opportunities to do community research for credit. For more information, contact the Centre for Community Research Learning and Action (CCRLA) at ccrla@wlu.ca.

Many departments offer independent/directed study options, which can be an opportunity to undertake a research project under the supervision of a professor. Speak to your academic advisor if you are interested in learning more.

Work and Study

Students who are experiencing financial difficulties and who wish to work on a part-time basis may be eligible to participate in Laurier’s Work-Study Program. Professors and research-support units on campus may post research-related opportunities. Due to the popularity of the program, positions get filled quickly, so if you’re interested, you should apply as soon as possible.

Students may also have the opportunity to take on research-oriented jobs, whether through co-op terms, non-co-op summer jobs, or part-time research assistantships during study terms. Laurier's Career Centre may be able to help you find opportunities. Other students find their own opportunities through faculty members.

Take a Field Course

Many departments offer field courses that offer intensive research training opportunities in the field for credit. Speak with your academic advisor to learn about opportunities.