Tips | Research Experience

Conducting research is a common experience many university students have. Research is defined as the prolonged study of any particular subject and results in a final product such as an article, paper, or presentation. This information sheet provides tips for obtaining supervised research opportunities.

1. The Value of Research Experience

For those considering graduate studies or professional school, research experience can demonstrate skills and attributes that make a candidate stand out. For pursuing a career in academia or a research-based career in industry or healthcare, research experience is vital. Most graduate schools are looking for innovative students to bolster their ranks, and solid research experience is a great way to show your innovation, critical and analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills in a research setting. Even for those looking to enter the job market immediately after graduation, research can be beneficial as it provides practical experience, transferrable skills, and opportunity to develop specialized knowledge which employers value. Research experiences in sciences, humanities or social sciences can also expand your career and academic horizons in new and unexpected directions.

2. Getting Your Foot in the Door

Volunteering

Volunteering is a great way to gain valuable experience, which can prepare you for more challenging research roles. Volunteer opportunities are often less intensive, but they can give you some preliminary immersion in a research environment.  Some professors accept student volunteers to help with their research and so getting to know your professors and TAs is important. Ask about their research and the possibility of volunteering (find out more below). Hospitals, charities, and non-profit organizations are also great places to engage in volunteer research work. Positions may be available in a wide variety of areas: life sciences, arts and culture, social work, law and policy. These volunteer opportunities are competitive, so it is important to apply with a well-developed resume and cover letter.  If invited to an interview, it's recommended that you research the organization beforehand.  The information you obtain will allow you to ask intelligent questions that demonstrate your knowledge of the organization and your enthusiasm for the opportunity. Attend the Get Hired Fair to speak with representatives from some of these organizations. Have a look at the Volunteering tip sheet for other ideas and resources.

Research Assistantships

Working as a Research Assistant (RA) provides experience in research methodology and hones your knowledge and research skills. It also allows you to work with professors and/or graduate students, focusing on one or more existing research projects.  For those interested in an academic career, an RA position is also an excellent way to make strategic contacts and references. These positions can be volunteer but are generally paid.

The Work-Study Program offers many research-oriented positions for students. During September and October and in May (for summer work-study positions) across all three campuses, the positions are posted on the CLNx (Career Learning Network) under the Jobs and Work-Study tabs.

In addition to these listings, the best way to obtain an RA position is to get to know your professors and build networks in your fields of study or area of interest. Inquire about their current research projects and whether they need additional help.  Many professors prefer to hire students they know and many RA positions are not advertised.  Start networking with your professors early. Check out the guide on Connecting with Faculty and the Academic References Tip Sheet to help you get started on networking with professors.

Research Opportunity Program, UTM Course Internships, and Community Engaged Learning

UTM students can also apply to the Research Opportunity Program (ROP) which allows students in their 2nd, 3rd or 4th years to earn a full course credit by participating in a faculty member’s research.  Availability varies by faculty and year of study so check your departments website, the academic calendar or ask your departmental undergraduate advisor. Be aware that the application process for ROPs happen in the year before the ROP starts. Some programs also offer Academic Internships for students to gain experience, including research-based internships. The Community Engaged Learning program can also provide research experiences. The Experiential Education Unit administers all of these opportunities, in addition to for credit Fieldwork Courses.

Independent Study Courses

Another excellent way to gain research experience is through a supervised study course (such as, Reading Courses, Independent Research Projects, and Undergraduate Thesis Courses). Offered in a wide majority of programs, these courses allow upper-year students to conduct an extensive examination of the literature on a selected topic or perform laboratory and/or fieldwork in their area of study. Students must obtain the permission of the department and locate a professor who agrees to supervise them. Consult the course calendar or speak with your departmental advisor. 

Developing your Research Network

Make the most of your network. Talking to your professors can be of great benefit as they have extensive networks and may be willing to share contacts. You can also ask friends, family and colleagues if they are aware of any professors or industry professionals currently involved in research. Review the profiles of researchers at U of T through department websites or use Discover Research, the U of T Blue Book and the UTM Online Directory to locate and contact professors. 

3. Funding Opportunities

Studentships and Fellowships

Government Funding at a Glance

Preparing a Research Proposal

Most funding agencies require candidates to submit a formal proposal to be considered for project funding. It's important that your research project is conceptually sound and a good fit for the agency. Funding organizations like to know how your project complements their philosophy so researching them thoroughly to tailor your proposal is key. 

Writing a Proposal

Important sections in a research proposal include: the Executive Summary - a brief summary of your proposal; the Statement of Need which provides the rationale for your project and how it will further the field; the Project Description which outlines your objective, methodology, administrative structure, strategies for evaluation and timelines; and the Budget - lists the type of expenses likely to be incurred and an outline of how funding will be directed. Review the “Write a Funding Application” page by the Division of the Vice-President, Research & Innovation at the University of Toronto for information and additional resources. 

Information is subject to change. Always refer to the original sources for the most up-to-date information. 

updated June 2025