By Nicole Chiu, Research and Innovation Office  

Every semester, hundreds of students dive into research projects at Douglas. Whether you want to conduct and present your own research, work alongside faculty experts on their projects, or promote the exciting research opportunities the College has to offer, there are many ways for everyone to get involved in research at Douglas. 

The benefits of incorporating research into your education are endless. You will gain critical-thinking skills, learn how to analyze and interpret data, meet other students who share similar interests and gain professional-level experience you can put on your résumé. You could also get hired as a research assistant or present your work at an academic conference.  

There are many ways to be part of the Douglas College research community. Here are five ways you can get involved in research this year.  

1. Student Research Days  

Student Research Days is an annual event where you can present a research project to the College community. You’ll get to showcase your research expertise and passion for research to our panel of faculty judges. Prizes of up to $500 will be awarded to the top projects. 

Student Research Days takes place April 13 at the New Westminster Campus.  

Apply to be a presenter. Applications are being accepted until March 9. 

Read more: Student Research Days returns to Douglas College on April 11 and 13

2. Research conferences  

If you’re already a researcher at the College and have a project you’re eager to share with a larger audience, then it’s time to take your research presentation skills to the next level at a research or industry-specific conference. You’ll sharpen your public-speaking skills, get practice presenting at an industry event and network with renowned experts in your field. Student Research Conference Funding can help cover conference fees and travel expenses. 

Apply now for Student Research Conference Funding. The deadline to apply is April 15.   

3. Become a research assistant 

Work alongside faculty – and get paid for it – as they do research and work with community partners and other institutions to apply their findings to solve problems in the real world.  

You will learn research techniques and gain the type of in-field experience and work experience that will help you stand out when you’re looking for employment.  

Look for Current Openings on the Douglas College Careers site by selecting “Student Assistant” in the posting category. 

4. Become a research ambassador 

Student Research Ambassadors work within their faculties to raise awareness of research and get their fellow students involved – and get paid to do it. 

You’ll work with other Student Research Ambassadors from across the College to promote research while developing your interpersonal, professional and leadership skills. 

Look for Current Openings on the Douglas College Careers site by selecting “Student Assistant” in the posting category. Look for positions that include the title “Student Ambassador.” 

Read more: Therapeutic Recreation grad publishes article on resilience research

5. Lead your own research  

Direct your very own research project with Scientific Research Skills (SRES 2100). In this self-guided course, offered by the Faculty of Science and Technology, you’ll learn how to conduct an independent study on a topic of your choice.  

If you want to continue doing research at a university, this course will equip you with the fundamental research skills, knowledge and the confidence to land a research assistant position at a research university. 

This course is offered in the Summer, Fall and Winter semesters. If you’re interested in registering for SRES 2100, talk to a Science and Technology instructor you are keen to work with to discuss your research interests. Once you agree on a topic, you can register for SRES 2100.  

To learn more about SRES 2100, visit the course information page on the Douglas College website. 

---

Learn more about research at the College by visiting the Research and Innovation Office page on the Douglas College website.