Addressing systemic barriers in research is a core tenet of the Acceleration Consortium (AC) as a crucial component of it fostering creativity and championing equitable access in the research community. In support of that goal, this summer, the AC launched its inaugural Summer Undergraduate Research Program (AC-SURP) to create pathways for bright young minds from under-represented groups to take their place at the (lab) table.
This meaningful program, funded by the Canada First Research Excellence Fund (CFREF), provided a unique and invaluable experience to a diverse group of talented undergraduates from across Canada to conduct research at AC labs on the University of Toronto (U of T) campus for the summer.
“Creating opportunities for the next generation of researchers to learn alongside our Staff Scientists and Principal Investigators is very important to the growth of the AC and to grow the talent that will drive future Canadian research excellence.” said AC Executive Director Sean Caffrey “The program included opportunities undergrads aren’t usually exposed to such as the chance to present a poster at the international Accelerate Conference as well as professional development seminars run by U of T professors.”
The AC-SURP students, studying in fields ranging from robotics to economics at U of T and University of British Columbia (UBC), spent their days researching and learning from AC staff scientists and principal investigators and being mentored by PhD students. Exchange students Youseff Briki and Mathis Lechaume-Robert from Université de Montréal also acted as collaborators throughout the summer. The goal of the program was to enrich students with essential skills to ensure positive progress in their scientific careers.
In addition to conducting research, the students had the opportunity to learn from AC knowledge experts and U of T professors through professional development seminars.
“One of the highlights of the program was the chance to gain more knowledge around CVs, research posters, grad school applications and social media communication for scientists,” said Phoebe Wang. “It was really helpful having a small group where everyone could ask questions and get firsthand tips on how to standout as we progress in our careers.”
They also had the chance to test drive brand new micro-courses in the AC’s Autonomous Systems for Discovery certificate offered by the University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies.
“The micro-course was a great opportunity to expand my knowledge on self-driving labs,” said Rubaina Farin. “Advanced material discovery is an emerging field, and it is exciting to be one of the first people exploring curriculum catered towards bringing this type of research beyond the university campus.”
The program culminated with an exciting opportunity for each participant to present a scientific poster at Accelerate Conference 2024 at the UBC.
“Attending the conference allowed everyone in the AC-SURP cohort to network with a wide range of speakers in AI and automation and get a broader understanding for the various career paths in this emerging field,” said Eloise Besnier. “In particular, the Women in STEM Networking Breakfast was a great way compare and contrast academic and industry career paths and have the chance to ask questions in a friendly, welcoming setting.”
The Acceleration Consortium is very proud of the accomplishments made by this year's AC-SURP cohort and the progress they made towards being the next generation of scientific leaders.
Applications for the 2025 AC-SURP program will be posted on our programs page in February 2025.