Information for SwB students wanting to conduct a research traineeship at Concordia
As a Science without Borders student, one component of your program in Canada is to complete a research traineeship or internship. At Concordia you have the following options:
Apprenticeships at District 3
The District 3 Innovation Hub is a place where Concordia’s innovators, intrapreneurs, entrepreneurs and economy converge to create value for industry and entrepreneurs. See apprenticeship opportunities at District 3, or contact them for more information.
Research traineeships with Concordia faculty members
A research traineeship is a research project you conduct at Concordia under the supervision of a Concordia professor or department. A research traineeship can be a project you develop in collaboration with your Concordia supervisor or assigned to you in conjunction with one of your supervisor’s existing projects.
How to find a research traineeship at Concordia
- Identify Concordia faculty members whose areas of expertise match your interests. Here are a few links to help you in your search:
- Ask if they would be willing to supervise you during a 14-16 week research traineeship.
- NB: Be professional. Provide them with a letter of intent, a copy of your c.v. and a summary of your research interests.
What to do after finding a faculty member to supervise you
- Establish the dates and project in conjunction with the faculty member.
- Give the faculty member a copy of your Work Permit.
- Complete a CBIE Research/Industry Placement Confirmation Form in consultation with the faculty member. The faculty member will need to complete a Concordia Request Form for a SwB Research Traineeship and submit both forms with a copy of your Work Permit to Concordia International on your behalf.
- If approved, Concordia International will issue you a letter of invitation to conduct a research traineeship at Concordia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements for a research traineeship or District 3 apprenticeship?
- A Concordia faculty member or District 3 must agree to supervise you and submit required forms to Concordia International on your behalf.
- You must have a valid Work Permit for Canada.
- You must arrange to have health insurance coverage while participating in the program.
- Per the CBIE, your research traineeship must be between 14 and 16 weeks in length; you must spend approximately 35 hours per week working in it and it must be related in content to your degree program.
Am I guaranteed placement?
No, Concordia cannot guarantee placement. The decision to supervise you is entirely the professor’s or District 3’s.
When can I do my research traineeship or apprenticeship?
The best time of the year to conduct your research traineeship apprenticeship is in the summer. There are less courses offered at Concordia during the summer term, planning to take courses during the Fall and Winter terms is advisable for more choices.
Are research traineeships or District 3 internships paid?
No, they are not paid.
What will be my status at Concordia during a research traineeship or District 3 internships?
Your status will be an Academic Visitor at Concordia. You will not have the same access to services as a student. However, you can obtain a Concordia ID through Human Resources that will provide you with minimum access to the library and allow you to have an e-mail account.
Are there possibilities to conduct internships outside Concordia?
Concordia International is unable to coordinate off-campus internships for you; however, the CBIE might have opportunities for you to apply for off campus placements.
Whom Can I Contact if I Have Questions?
Concordia International will be happy to address questions about research traineeships at Concordia. Please email studyaway@concordia.ca for more info.
