New for 2024! The Dean of Science invites Black and Indigenous undergraduate science students (degrees in Science, Health Science, Computer Science, Mathematics, and/or Statistics) to apply for paid summer research internships. These opportunities are designed to advance academic and professional growth while contributing to the vibrant diversity of our scientific community. BISRI students will be paid a minimum of $8,400 over 12 weeks ($20/hour @ 35 hours/week) to work with a Faculty of Science professor and their research team.

This pilot initiative will follow the strategic directions of the specialized program for Black and Indigenous students under the NSERC USRA scheme (see below for more information).

Information and Application Procedures

To be eligible for BISRI, students must be enrolled in Science at Carleton (full- or part-time), have earned ≥ 2.0 credits, have a cumulative GPA ≥ 8.0 (a “B” average), and self-identify as Indigenous and/or Black. The deadline to apply is February 28, 2024. Applicants will be asked to provide a Statement of Interest, detailing why they want to do research, identify the professor they wish to work with, explain why they want to join the professor’s research program, and describe what they will work on. They will also be asked to provide a Statement of Impact, outlining how the internship aligns with their career and life goals.

We look forward to working with individuals who are not only passionate about science but also bring diverse perspectives to enrich our research environment.

Applicants will be notified of the results by mid-March.

IMPORTANT: You can turn the BISRI internship into one that pays $14,000 over 16 weeks ($25/hour @ 35 hours/week) by simultaneously applying for an NSERC USRA.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply if I am a part-time student?  Yes
Can I apply as a first-year student? Yes, provided you have ≥ 2.0 Carleton University credits
Can I apply as a second-year student? Yes
Can I apply as a third-year student? Yes
Can I apply as a fourth-year student? Yes
Can I apply if I am a graduate student?  No
Will the position be remote or on campus?  This is dependent on the supervisor’s preference. BISRI students must live in Ontario or Quebec over the summer.
Can I apply if I am an international student?  Yes
Can I apply if I identify as Black but not Indigenous?  Yes
Can I apply if I identify as Indigenous but not Black?  Yes
Can I apply if I identify as both Indigenous and Black?  Yes
Can I apply if I do not identify as Indigenous or Black?  No. However, you may be eligible to apply for a Dean’s Summer Research Internships or an NSERC Undergraduate Student Research Award.

What is the financial contribution from the supervisor to support a BISRI student?

  • Student wins BISRI ONLY: $1300 for 12 weeks work at 35 hrs/week earning $20/hr
  • Student wins BOTH BISRI and NSERC: $1300 for 16 weeks work at 35 hrs/week earning $25/hr