STS/HPS Internship
The goal of this internship is to give students an opportunity to get hands-on experience in science policy, governance, funding, popularization, advocacy, journalism, or a closely related field in a professional setting. The internship experience can help deepen the students’ expertise in these fields and play a vital role in achieving their personal and professional goals. The interns will apply their interdisciplinary knowledge acquired though their courses at the University of Toronto in real work environments and link their learning to the reality of various science-related settings. The internship experience can also help the students to learn more about possible career paths and give them an invaluable opportunity to create strong professional networks.
Students will be required to complete 100 hours (typically 8 hours/week) with an industry partner during the Fall term. Students will also be required to participate in monthly group meetings with the Course Instructor and other interns where they will discuss their progress and make short presentations about their goals and what they have learnt. Students will get 0.5 credit that will count towards their STS or HPS minor/major. Students in STS and/or HPS programs going into their third or fourth year are eligible to apply.
Internships can be remote, in-person, or hybrid dependent on Government and University policies, rules, and regulations instituted in response to the changing circumstances surrounding COVID-19.
To complete this application you will need:
- Your unofficial transcript
- Your resume (1-2 pages long)
- Your statement of interest (500 words max)
Application Deadline: July 6, 2025
Project Descriptions
The Royal Canadian Institute of Science
Organization
Celebrating its 175th anniversary, the Royal Canadian Institute of Science (RCIScience) is Canada’s oldest scientific organization. A registered charity, RCIScience’s award-winning programming connects adults with science and scientists in creative, inspiring and thought-provoking ways. From nature walks to dog cognition workshops, cocktail classes, documentary screenings and everything fun in between, we’re on a mission to build community and foster science culture in Canada. RCIScience also provides scientists with hands-on training and opportunities to hone their communication skills on a real platform, with a real audience, so they can share their cutting-edge research with the public in creative, inspiring and thought-provoking ways.
Location
Hybrid (Remote work with exception of supporting public events and/or onsite filming)
Mode of Engagement
70% online, 30% in person
Title of Proposed Role
Science Communication and History of Science Intern
Description of Role
- Identify stories about the history of science in Toronto;
- Mine RCIScience’s archives for interesting and celebratory stories that showcase RCIScience’s role in shaping the history of science in Canada, highlight scientific discovery in Canada or show how research in the country has changed over time. We’ll work together to explore avenues of interest;
- Develop science communication skills to share these stories with a variety of audiences (adult public, scientists, funders, etc.) through a range of media (including social media, video, in-person events, blog or magazine articles, a timeline, infographic or something else entirely).
- Topics could include:
o The history and science of coffee
o The history and science of cocktails/alcohol
o A “haunted” science history walk around Toronto
o Science-art
o Spotlight on unsung historical scientific figures in Canada
Preferred Knowledge, Skills, Competencies, Mind-Set and/or Experience
- Excellent written and oral communication skills, particularly for non-expert audiences
- A passion for history of science or science in general
- A passion for science communication and learning best practices in the field
- Familiar with Google suite
- Professional email communication
- Expertise with Canva
- Experience in digital content creation, eg. for social media or blogs, is an asset
- Video editing skills an asset
- Works well independently and collaboratively, with openness to feedback
Structure of Engagement
- The intern will primarily work individually, with occasional collaboration with other interns, volunteers and staff;
- Together, we’ll develop a workplan and identify key deliverables.
Primary Contact or Supervisor and Designated ‘Backup’
Celia Du, Programs Manager
Backup: Carrie Boyce, Executive Director
Reporting Practices
The intern(s) must be available for weekly virtual progress meetings with the Programs Manager, to be scheduled at a mutually agreed time.
Team Culture
RCIScience is an advocate for equity, diversity and inclusion in STEM, fostering better ideas, better programs and higher levels of impact and success. We welcome qualified people from a range of backgrounds, age groups, and levels of experience and seek to create an approachable and accessible environment. The team is highly collaborative and open to new ideas.
Learning Outcomes
- Science communication skills training and development
- Work experience within a small team and registered charity
- Networking with scientists and science communicators
Perceived Impact
- Increase public trust and awareness of science
- Increase appreciation for the Institute’s role in shaping the scientific landscape in Canada
- Increase capacity and perspectives of organization to deliver engaging public programming for adults
The Office of the Vice-Provost, Innovations in Undergraduate Education
Organization
The Office of the Vice-Provost, Innovations in Undergraduate Education (OVPIUE) supports ongoing and new efforts to enhance the quality and expand the reach of impactful teaching and learning practices at the University of Toronto.
To support innovations in undergraduate education across the University of Toronto, the OVPIUE supports a robust profile related to five key priorities:
- Teaching Awards & Grants: Recognizing and funding staff and faculty who demonstrate commitment to innovation and excellence in teaching practices.
- Analytics: Leveraging data to enhance program planning, decision-making and student success.
- Digital Transformation: Building and supporting systems that enable faculty, staff and students to achieve their academic goals.
- Curriculum Development: Working with institutional and divisional stakeholders to develop and assess course and program level outcomes.
- Teaching Initiatives: Stewarding the development of institutional frameworks and resources for innovative teaching practices, such as experiential learning, undergraduate research and generative artificial intelligence in teaching and learning.
In each of these priority areas, the OVPIUE supports a range of programs, projects and committees that advance these areas in unique, but interrelated ways.
Location
65 St. George Street
Toronto, Ontario, M5S 2E5
Mode of Engagement
Hybrid: our team members are currently in the office on Mondays and Thursdays. Our office will work with the identified candidate to determine if they will work online or in-person.
Title of Proposed Role
Special Projects Assistant (2 roles)
Description of Role
The Special Projects Assistants will contribute to and lead a range of communications, research and special initiatives within the Teaching Initiatives portfolio of the Office of the Vice-Provost, Innovations in Undergraduate Education (OVPIUE). This portfolio focuses on advancing experiential learning and undergraduate research, supporting faculty pedagogical development and knowledge sharing, and enhancing the overall academic experience for undergraduate students at the University of Toronto.
The focus of this role will be communications, research and special initiatives related to key pieces of the Teaching Initiatives portfolio: experiential learning, undergraduate research and teaching awards and grants. This role will spend time developing content, producing institutional research and supporting other special projects as they arise. Potential activities and duties include:
- Supporting teaching grants by developing resources, helping to streamline processes and creating opportunities to bring community members together
- Following consultation with U of T community members, supporting the review of the Cheryl Regehr Early Career Teaching Award
- Research promising practices in experiential learning, teaching awards and grants, and undergraduate research
- Assist in collecting and writing profiles of experiential learning programs, undergraduate research programs and previous teaching award recipients
- Supporting the OVPIUE website and other websites, with a particular focus on the review of the Experiential Learning Hub
- Assist with processing and preparing reports and other materials related to experiential learning, teaching awards and grants and undergraduate research
- Outreach to faculty and university staff for interviews and information gathering
Preferred Knowledge, Skills, Competencies, Mind-Set and/or Experience
Our ideal candidate will have a desire and curiosity to learn more about how universities operate and what they can do to help undergraduate students be more successful. They will have strong research and organization skills, be detail-oriented, have an interest in supporting experiential learning, undergraduate research and advancing pedagogical excellence. They will also have superior writing and communication skills, a familiarity with the structure of the University and an interest in exploring or learning more about a career in higher education. Experience with WordPress is preferred but not necessary.
Structure of Engagement
The student will work on some projects individually and others as part of a team, the student will be brought into meetings and collaborative projects with members of our Teaching Initiatives team.
Primary Contact or Supervisor and Designated ‘Backup’
Jennifer Evans, Manager Teaching Initiatives, Office of the Vice-Provost, Innovations in Undergraduate Education
Sania Hameed, Special Projects Officer, Teaching Initiatives, Office of the Vice-Provost, Innovations in Undergraduate Education
Reporting Practices
As part of the Teaching Initiatives team in the OVPIUE, the student will participate in the following meetings:
- OVPIUE team meetings (1-2 per term)
- Once monthly Teaching Initiatives team meetings with Vice-Provost Susan McCahan
- Once weekly Teaching Initiatives team meetings
- Weekly one-on-one meetings with either the Manager, Teaching Initiatives or Special Projects Officer, Teaching Initiatives
Team Culture
The Office of the Vice-Provost, Innovations in Undergraduate Education (OVPIUE) fosters a highly collaborative team culture grounded in curiosity, care and mutual respect. We prioritize listening deeply and working in partnership with colleagues across the University to understand diverse needs and perspectives. Our work is strengthened by a shared commitment to learning from one another and co-creating meaningful, responsive initiatives.
Learning Outcomes
Through this role, the Special Projects Assistants will deepen their understanding of how universities support teaching and learning, gain experience in institutional research, and strengthen their skills in writing, communication and project coordination. They will develop a clearer sense of how to work collaboratively across a complex institution and build confidence in consulting with diverse members of our community. This experience will also provide valuable insight into careers in higher education and how innovative practices shape the undergraduate academic experience.
Perceived Impact
The Special Projects Assistants play a meaningful role in advancing the work of the Teaching Initiatives portfolio by contributing to communications, research, and special projects that support teaching excellence and student learning. Their efforts enhance the capacity of our team and office to share knowledge, build community, and implement responsive, strategic initiatives. By supporting work related to experiential learning, undergraduate research, and teaching awards and grants, they contribute to institutional change that benefits faculty, staff, and students across the University of Toronto.
Scarborough Centre for Healthy Communities
Organization
Scarborough Centre for Healthy Communities (SCHC) is dedicated to meeting the diverse, holistic health needs of the communities of Scarborough by addressing the physical, mental, social, financial, and environmental aspects of their health. Through the promotion of healthy lifestyles and the delivery of a comprehensive range of culturally competent health and social services, SCHC cultivates vital and connected communities.
Location
Primarily remote. Occasional in-person engagement may occur at SCHC’s any of these sites: 629 Markham Rd, 520 Ellesmere, or 2660 Eglinton Avenue East. The closest public transit stop is at Markham Rd and Lawrence East (TTC).
Mode of Engagement
Mostly online with occasional in-person opportunities (approximately 80% remote / 20% on-site)
Title of Proposed Role
Community Health Research Assistant/Intern (Two Roles)
Description of Role
This role is situated within SCHC’s Community Health Clinic. The intern will support a Community-Based Research (CBR) initiative focused on evaluating selected SCHC programs to identify pain points, barriers, and opportunities for innovation. SCHC will pre-identify one or more specific areas of concern to guide the intern’s work. The intern will engage in active community research—shadowing program staff, attending team meetings, and conducting interviews with stakeholders, including staff and clients (where feasible).
Key Objectives:
- Understand operational challenges and community needs of the SCHC community health clinics.
- Engage community stakeholders in co-designing meaningful solutions.
- Provide an actionable, equity-focused plan for program/service enhancement.
Deliverables:
- Week 5: Observational summary and initial findings.
- Week 8: Draft needs assessment with analysis and proposed innovations.
- Week 11: Final presentation to SCHC CHT leadership with recommendations.
Preferred Knowledge, Skills, Competencies, Mind-Set and/or Experience
- Strong qualitative research and interview skills.
- Ability to reflect on health equity, social determinants of health, and population diversity.
- Knowledge of CBR principles and community engagement.
- Ability to synthesize findings into written reports and presentations.
- Critical thinking, adaptability, and a collaborative mindset.
Structure of Engagement
Work individually with support from SCHC mentors and program staff.
Primary Contact or Supervisor and Designated ‘Backup’
Supervisor: Nailah Vernon, Manager, Community Health Team
Contacts: Callum Tyrell, Paul Olalekan, and Meti Tussa
Reporting Practices:
Bi-weekly individual check-ins with supervisor (online or in-person as needed).
Weekly mentor guidance and ad hoc communications for support.
Final presentation to the SCHC leadership team.
Team Culture
The CSS team at SCHC values collaboration, reflection, and responsiveness to community needs. The culture encourages curiosity, compassion, and continuous learning. Interns will be treated as meaningful contributors to the work and welcomed into relevant team meetings and community activities.
Learning Outcomes
- Deep understanding of community-based research frameworks in practice.
- Applied experience with needs assessments and qualitative evaluation.
- Exposure to complex challenges within nonprofit service delivery.
- Skills in project management, professional communication, and stakeholder engagement.
- Networking opportunities with public health professionals and community leaders.
Perceived Impact
The student’s work will directly contribute to evidence-based improvements in SCHC’s service delivery. The findings and action plan will support internal reflection and external advocacy, helping SCHC better meet the needs of Scarborough’s diverse populations and influence long-term health outcomes in the region.
Plant-Based Canada
Organization
Plant-Based Canada (PBC) is a health professional led Canadian registered non-profit organization established in 2019, dedicated to promoting the well-being of humans, the environment, and all life forms. PBC aims to advance whole-food, plant-based living as a solution to the urgent crises of chronic disease and environmental degradation. Through trustworthy, evidence-based education, PBC empowers health professionals, the public, students, and policymakers. Our activities include social media outreach, conferences, webinars, the Plant-Based Canada Podcast (over 100 episodes in 70 countries), policy engagement, literature contributions, and student mentoring.
Location
Remote organization. (No physical office). However opportunities to meet in person in Toronto if desired by the intern.
Mode of Engagement
Entirely online (virtual meetings and independent remote work).
Title of Proposed Role
Content Development, Communications and Research
Description of Role
The intern will join Plant-Based Canada's volunteer team and can contribute to a variety of projects depending on their personal interest. The intern would engage in content creation, research, communication, and implementation activities aligned with PBC’s advocacy goals.
Key projects/deliverables may include:
- Creation of infographics and fact sheets for student and public education on nutrition and personal health and planetary health/sustainability
- Contributions to social media posts promoting plant-based nutrition and environmental sustainability
- Research on promotion opportunities for the Plant-Based Canada Podcast and broader social media engagement
- Development of reports including year-end report summarizing PBC activities and PBC growth since inception to showcase progress and maintain tracking (via Canva)
- Website updates and resource integration
- Research on grant opportunities and donor development
- Research and implementation of communications strategies to improve reach and develop community
- Research into AI tools to streamline operations
Preferred Knowledge, Skills, Competencies, Mind-Set and/or Experience
- Strong writing and professional communication skills
- Attention to detail
- Familiarity with science journalism or communicating science to general audiences
- Ability to work independently
- Research and analytical skills
- Knowledge of Google Suite (Docs, Sheets, Slides, Gmail)
- Experience using Canva
- Experience in digital content creation and social media management (asset)
Structure of Engagement
- Work individually with mentorship and weekly team meetings.
Primary Contact or Supervisor and Designated ‘Backup’
- Supervisor: Dr. Zahra Kassam, Director, Plant-Based Canada
- Supervisor: Vanessa Kennedy, Team member for Operations, Plant-Based Canada
Reporting Practices
- Weekly virtual meetings with the supervisors (approximately 30–60 minutes)
- Follow-up by email as needed
- Attendance at PBC team and coalition meetings (optional but welcomed)
Team Culture
- Collaborative, supportive, mission-driven
- Respect for diverse backgrounds and lived experiences
- Independent work encouraged with regular team mentorship
- Passion for education, advocacy, and positive change
Learning Outcomes
- Content development and digital communications skills
- Knowledge translation skills from academic research to public communication
- Professional writing, research, and reporting abilities
- Practical experience with nonprofit operations and advocacy work
- Networking opportunities within the health and sustainability sectors