PolyU has recently signed an agreement with Mitacs, a Canadian not-for-profit organisation offering a Globalink Research Internship (GRI) Programme with over 70 universities across Canada. According to the agreement, from 2022 to 2024, as many as 60 PolyU full-time senior undergraduates of any discipline will have the opportunity to participate in research internships at Canadian top universities, including McGill University, the University of Toronto and the University of British Columbia.

In each year of the scheme, up to 20 PolyU Year 3 or Year 4 students will travel to Canada during the summer to undertake a 12-week research project under the supervision of a professor at a Canadian university. Students can choose their research topics from a variety of disciplines, from science, engineering and mathematics to humanities and social sciences. They will also have opportunities to participate in industry events as well as training sessions on entrepreneurship, problem-solving, project management, communication, and teamwork. Each participating student will furthermore receive CAD$12,000 in funding support.

“PolyU is delighted to partner with Mitacs through the GRI programme,” said Professor Ben Young, PolyU Vice President (Student and International Affairs). “Our students are very often encouraged to demonstrate an enthusiasm for research and intellectual curiosity during their studies at PolyU. The summer research internships at Canadian institutions offer an excellent opportunity with funding support for students to acquire valuable hands-on research skills as well as to gain international experience.”

Dr John Hepburn, CEO and Scientific Director of Mitacs, said, “Mitacs is pleased to embark on our first partnership with PolyU as we work to build meaningful international networks. These connections not only support Canadian innovation, but also provide important opportunities for PolyU students to develop skills and competencies that will help them succeed.”

In the coming round of application, eligible PolyU students can apply for the internship from July 2021. After the interview and evaluation process, students will be offered a project match, and Mitacs will confirm the student placements by February 2022. The first group of selected students are expected to depart for Canada starting May 2022.

Leveraging its extensive network with renowned universities, institutions and industry partners worldwide, PolyU infuses students with a global perspective through its academic programmes and vast co-curricular activities. Through participating in internship, exchange, Service-Learning and leadership programmes offered by the University, students gain rich international exposure. These experiences are instrumental for their development into global-minded leaders and socially responsible citizens.