Research + Graduate Application Support & Industry (RASI)
November - April
Research + Graduate Application Support & Industry (RASI) is an initiative within the Community of Support (COS) designed to help students from underrepresented communities explore and pursue opportunities in research, graduate and professional education, and industry. Through mentorship, workshops, and individualized guidance, students receive support in securing summer research positions, preparing competitive applications for graduate and professional programs (e.g., Basic Science, Rehabilitation Sciences, Genetic Counselling, Physician Assistant, and other health sciences programs), and exploring careers across sectors such as biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, healthcare, technology, consulting, and entrepreneurship.
Through workshops, mentorship, and skills-building opportunities, participants will learn how to:
- Develop a strong academic and professional CV
- Identify and apply for research opportunities
- Explore graduate, professional, and industry career pathways
- Navigate graduate and professional school application processes
- Build meaningful connections with mentors from academia, healthcare, and industry
- Strengthen competitiveness for future academic and career opportunities
Important Information - To be eligible for a research position with one of our RASI partners, students must attend at least two in-person RASI events, including one Mentor Social.
Mentor Socials will take place on:
- November 17, 2026 | 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
- February 3, 2027 | 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Upcoming Dates
October 13, 2026
Application opens (selections are made on a rolling basis, usually one week after application)
January 10, 2027 | 11:59 PM
Deadline to apply to RASI for access to summer research jobs with RASI research partners and Mentor Matching.
November 2026 - April 2027
RASI Program Duration
COS Application
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How will prospective applicants/mentees be supported through RASI?
You will be matched based on your experience and interests to students who have extensive research backgrounds in the area of your interest. These student mentors share their experience will you in applying to research positions, and help you identify and reach out to labs that you are interested in working in.
Throughout the year, online workshops are also offered to you to get help on various topics like how to approach a potential supervisor, how to make a research curriculum vitae (CV), how to apply to scholarships for graduate degrees and how to publish a research paper.
Why is access to research experience important?
Research experience enables a student to expand their technical skill base, as well as many other favourable skills such as analytical thinking, writing and presentation abilities.
Is RASI only for students interested in graduate school?
No. While RASI supports students pursuing graduate and professional education, it also helps students explore careers in healthcare, biotechnology, life sciences, technology, consulting, public sector organizations, and other industries.
What is the time commitment?
Participants are expected to attend orientation, participate in workshops and professional development events, meet regularly with their mentor, and remain actively engaged throughout the program year.
Can I participate if I am undecided about my career path?
Absolutely. RASI is designed to expose students to a variety of academic, healthcare, research, and industry pathways so they can make informed decisions about their future.
Will participation guarantee a research position or job?
No. While RASI provides guidance, mentorship, and professional development opportunities, participation does not guarantee admission to a program, a research position, or employment. However, it helps students become stronger and more competitive applicants.
Can I have interests in both graduate school and industry?
Yes. Many students are interested in exploring both pathways. RASI encourages participants to learn about the full range of opportunities available to them and supports informed career decision-making.
What happens after I complete RASI?
RASI alumni are encouraged to remain engaged with the Community of Support network, attend future events, and potentially return as mentors to support future cohorts.