Mentored Research Program

Over a few months, young people receive a specialized training...

... and are at the forefront of an ongoing research project...

... supervised by a passionate young researcher!

What is InitiaSciences?

The InitiaSciences mentorship program offers high school (3-4-5) and college (all options) students the opportunity to participate in cutting-edge scientific research projects with the personalized support of university students and young researchers.

How does the program work?

What does it involve on the mentor's side?

Each mentor is required to attend several training workshops to help him or her identify the project on which he or she will be able to involve young people, and to learn about pedagogy, scientific communication, inclusive best practices... You can consult the Mentor.e.s FAQ for more information, or find inspiration among the projects offered by the mentors of the 2023-2024 cohort!

What if I want to become a mentee?

As a mentee, you'll be part of a team of two or three young people paired with one of our mentors (or 3-4 young people, if group participation for college accreditation is chosen). You can read or watch the short videos here for more details on the projects on offer! Your mentor will accompany the team, enabling you to get involved and contribute to a university research project in which he/she is an expert.

Note: recruitment for the 2023-2024 edition of the project is now closed.

What does the program consist of?

The program runs throughout theschool year (between October and June). It starts with the team welcome evening, followed by four research training workshops in October. In November, you will begin meeting with your mentor and getting involved in the research project! The project will end in June with the annual InitiaSciences Symposium, where your team will present its results.

Important: You can apply to our bursary program and receive financial compensation for your participation in the program, up to the amount of hours you are expected to devote to the project. Alternatively, some CEGEPs allow their students to have InitiaSciences credited as an integrative project in the winter session, or you are free to participate as a volunteer. If you have any questions, please consult our special FAQ or contact us!

The strengths of the InitiaSciences Mentored Research Program...

Personal Achievement

The realization of a cutting-edge research project and communicating its results

Teamwork

Learning group work, project management and leadership development

Unique Skills

Reading scientific literature in English, critical thinking, synthesis...

Generational Proximity

Unprecedented proximity between mentors and mentees and personalized coaching

Networking

Immersion in renowned research laboratories, in multiple disciplines

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