Indigenous Research Mentorship Program

The Indigenous Research Mentorship (IRM) Program offers Indigenous undergraduate students the opportunity to gain research experience in their area of interest while working alongside a faculty mentor.

Over the course of the Winter academic session, IRM participants will:

• Work directly with a faculty member or post-doctoral fellow conducting research in their area of interest
• Gain valuable research experience related to their field of study
• Strengthen presentation, public speaking, and research skills
• Engage with other Indigenous undergraduate students through workshops, social gatherings, and professional development opportunities
• Network with UBC Okanagan faculty
• Discover opportunities for pursuing further research and/or pathways to graduate study programs or careers in research
• Receive a financial stipend for their involvement

Time Commitment: From January – April, we ask participants to dedicate 6-10 hours per week. 

Eligibility

Students eligible to participate in the program include those who: 

• have self-identified as Indigenous, 

• will be registered as a full-time undergraduate student at UBC’s Okanagan Campus in the 2025/26 Winter Session (September-April), 

• will have second-year standing or above, 

• are interested in exploring research, and 

• can commit to participate in regular research participation, programming, and workshops from January to April, 2025.  

• No prior research experience is required. 

Apply

Apply here 

Applications are open until August 24th, 2025, 11:59PM PST. 

Info Sessions: If you are looking to get more information and ask any questions, there will be two information sessions held virtually on August 14th and 21st, 2025. To register for either date, please sign up HERE, 

Interviews for the programs will likely occur in late September

Contact

Eli Kelly, Indigenous Graduate Student Advisor 
Indigenous Programs & Services 
The University of British Columbia | Okanagan Campus | Syilx Okanagan Nation Territory 
UNC 212, 3272 University Way | Kelowna BC | V1V 1V7 Canada 
Email: eli.kelly@ubc.ca 

Frequently asked questions

Q: What is the time commitment?
A: From January – April, we ask participants to dedicate 6-10 hours per week.”

Q: Do I need prior research experience to apply?
A: No prior research experience is required.

Q: How can I learn more about the IRM program?
A: Attend an information session or contact Eli Kelly at eli.kelly@ubc.ca.