Summer Student Research Program
The 2026 Summer Student Research Program is currently FULL
The Summer Student Research Program is now at full capacity. For questions, please contact reseduc@bcchr.ca.
The Summer Student Research Program includes:
An individual research project
Explore your research interests in the areas of biomedical, clinical, population, and health science by undertaking an individual research project alongside a research team. Project details are determined collaboratively between you and your supervisor.
A research education program
Alongside your project, you’ll take part in a structured learning program that highlights the breadth of research at BC Children’s Hospital.
Held in June-July at the BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute (Vancouver, BC), the curriculum includes:
- Orientation: learn about available resources and supports on the Oak Street Campus.
- Student Presentations: share your research and build confidence in public speaking.
- Faculty Presentations: hear from leading researchers about careers and opportunities in health research.
- Networking Events: opportunities to network and maximize your exposure to peers and mentors.
- Workshops: develop practical skills in areas such as statistics, scientific writing, poster creation, and literature searching.
Fast Facts
- Over the last 32 years, 1,382 students have participated in the Summer Student Research Program. This includes 494 medical students, 712 undergraduate students and 176 unspecified students
- Between 2000-2018, 990 applications for BCCHR Summer Studentships were received. 343 BCCHR Studentships were awarded (total value, approximately $1,300,000) and 118 Partnership Summer Studentships were awarded (total value, approximately $500,000)
- In 2019, the 104 program participants came from 15 universities world-wide. Program feedback highlighted the diverse curriculum, valuable learning opportunity and vocational guidance. 100% of respondents would recommend this program to others
How to Participate
Step 1
Decide if the Program Is Right for You
Participants can expect to receive high-quality training, dedicated mentorship, and exposure to a wide range of research topics and skills — all while spending the summer working and learning in Vancouver (residence is not included).
The research education program runs between June–July. Research project timelines are flexible, with start and end dates determined by the student and supervisor. Projects may begin as early as May and continue onsite until as late as September 1.
Step 2
Find a Supervisor
It is up to the student to contact potential research supervisors. Researchers may commit to students well before the application dates. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that applicants initiate this process as early as possible. More details on finding a supervisor.
Step 4
Submit your Application
To participate in the Summer Student Research Program, submit either of the following applications:
Option #1: Need funding? Apply for a BCCHR Summer Studentship.
Option #2: Already have another funding source (ie. a summer award, researcher-funded position, co-op/directed studies/international placement, etc.), or will be volunteering? Apply for the Summer Program.