By: Stephanie Cognigni, Experiential Programming and Outreach Coordinator
Where should I start?
- Start with what is available. If you want to connect with a researcher on campus, start by identifying McMaster researchers who may have received funding for a current project. This will help guide your outreach efforts.
- Consider volunteering. If you are seeking to gain experience, consider volunteering as a research participant. There are opportunities that will get you connected to research and those conducting it.
- Update your resume. Get individualized feedback from a trained Peer Leader to develop an effective resume or cover letter. You can book an appointment on OSCARplus / Student Success Centre / Appointments / Career Counselling and Job Search Coaching / Resume and Cover Letter Writing.
Who can I ask about finding a position in my field of interest?
- Your professor: Contact your professors about your research interests and aspirations. They may have connections and knowledge about what researchers value in potential candidates. Making a great impression here can go a long way to being recommended for an opportunity.
- Your teaching assistant (TA): They have experience searching for research opportunities and can share their journey and insights, including what worked and didn’t work for them and tips on where to search and what to prepare. TAs also work closely with professors, so they will have knowledge about who is doing what and possibly any available opportunities.
- Upper-year students: They can give you other avenues to search for research positions and may be able to share what it was like working on a research project and potential contacts.
- Do your own research: Find out which faculty members and professors are involved in research and learn their current interests within their field of expertise. Find out what research is being done in your field of interest and who is doing it. You can connect with those people for a career conversation and ask them questions about gaining experience and making connections.
How can I stay connected with some of my professors, TAs and/or peers?
- Engage and participate during class discussions.
- Attend instructor office hours.
- Begin by asking if they are open to having a quick chat about your research area of interest, if they have any tips for connecting with professors doing research, research that you are interested in on campus.
- Create a LinkedIn profile to connect with peers, TAs and professors. Keep up to date on your field of interest and be active on LinkedIn.
- Attend events like workshops, seminars and guest lectures on topics of interest or those hosted by researchers with similar interests.
Where can I find opportunities?
It is hard to balance academics and social life, however, making space in your day to participate in social events or activities can support your emotional well-being and sense of belonging in the university. You can also join course-specific study groups. I recommend following social media accounts created for your faculty and program to check for student events and social gatherings.
Final remarks
When exploring research opportunities, it is important to reflect on your goals and what you need the research experience for. A reminder that we are here to support you throughout your journey.
OSCARplus
Visit OSCARplus for one-on-one appointments. OSCARplus / Student Success Centre / Appointments
Appointment types:
- Job Search Coaching: to support your research search
- Volunteer Connections: to help search for volunteer research opportunities
LIVELab
The LIVELab is a 106-seat research-based performance theatre and testing centre. The LIVELab is committed to developing a world-class facility for the scientific study of music, sound, and movement and their importance in human development and human health.
Faculty of Science: Office of Undergraduate Research
The mission of the Office of Undergraduate Research (OUR) in the Faculty of Science will be to promote excellence in undergraduate student, and faculty-led, collaborative research and scholarship in all disciplines.
Research Shop
The McMaster Research Shop works with public, non-profit, and community organizations in Hamilton to provide plain-language answers to research questions. Research Shop Staff hire Team Leads and recruit volunteers, matching them with projects that interest them.
Mosaic
There are research positions through the McMaster Work Program for students who demonstrate financial need.
Student Success Centre tips and resources
Use the filter feature to explore, “Job Search Tips” on Tips and Resources.
Experiential Learning Opportunities Resource (EXPLORE)
There are so many ways for you to gain experience and get involved at McMaster. Use this tool to explore and filter your options based on your goals and interests. There are opportunities for undergraduate students in any level or Faculty, ranging from courses for credit to experience-building programs, community engagement and more. Plus, explore options to take your learning outside your discipline, or area of study.