Students will gain practical research experience, as directed by a faculty member, in a wide range of scientific lab/field settings or as part of a faculty member’s research program. During this course, the student will learn introductory research skills/techniques and will use these techniques to make a meaningful contribution to the supervisor’s research program. Students are expected to commit to approximately 5-10 hours per week (on average) for one term. Students will also be required to attend departmental seminars/colloquia of their interest (3 seminars per term)

To read the full outline, click Course  Outline

Step 1: Find a Supervisor

Step 2: Complete SCIENCE 2RP3 Application Form

Proposed Training

• This course provides students with the opportunity to collaborate within an interdisciplinary research/lab group setting, focusing on the initial stages of conducting a research study
• This encompasses all fundamental research process steps leading up to point of the collection of original data
• Learners will engage in an interdisciplinary group of four to develop valuable, transferable skills related to research inquiry, critical thinking, and communication by following a systematic approach to analyzing and evaluating scientific data, arguments, and perspectives through the critical analysis of – and reflection on – broad issues of global significance, Ex. Climate Change; Public Health; Sustainable Development; Biodiversity and Conservation; Technology&Society; Food Security
• The course’s objective is to provide early scaffolding for research within students’ academic careers, preparing them for more advanced research in subsequent years

Learning Outcomes/Science Career Competences

• Demonstrate proficiency in conducting comprehensive literature reviews and critically evaluating scientific literature by completing the literature review written assignment
• Develop an informed research question and formulate a hypothesis by creating a written research proposal
• Work collaboratively and communicate effectively with peers from various science programs and backgrounds by participating in group discussions, brainstorming sessions, and providing constructive feedback in oral and written form

How Successful Learning Outcomes Be Determined

• Literature review (25%)
• Research proposal (30%)
• Group presentation (20%)
• 2 mini presentations (10%)
• 3 individual reflections (15%)

Additional Notes

• Potential for 40 students working in groups of 10 on four unique projects

Completed Level 1 in the Faculty of Science.

Dr. Patricia Chow-Fraser is the academic supervisor of this course. Students do not need to search for a separate supervisor.

The course will follow MSAF and SAS policies as prescribed by the University

Apply by August 4th, 2025 at 11:45 pm using the SCIENCE 2RP3 – Research Proficiency and Practice application online.

Proposed Training

Reporting directly to Director of the McMaster Biology Greenhouse, the research assistant will learn the responsibilities of caring for greenhouse plants, including day-to-day plant care, ensuring that plants receive the correct level of water, nutrients, light, etc. The student will assist with certain project set-ups, data collection, insect/disease management and equipment maintenance. In this role, the assistant will also coordinate the schedule of volunteers who are assisting with plant care. Two times a year, the assistant will also be involved in the sale of plant propagated by volunteers, with the proceeds used to increase the collection and to pay for biocontrol of plant pests. The assistant will be trained to give tours of the greenhouse to visitors.

Required Health and Safety Training on Mosaic which includes WHMIS 2015, Violence and Harassment Prevent AND FIre Safety, Ergonomics OR SAFE training. Students should enroll in these courses and complete the tests on Avenue.

To apply for this course, please fill out the following SCIENCE 2RP3  Application Form – Fall 2025.

Deadline: August 4th 2025