About the Program

Summer research has become an increasingly meaningful way for high school and early undergraduate students to explore academic interests and prepare for future study. Substantive research experience not only strengthens academic readiness, but also helps students stand out in competitive college and graduate school applications—particularly when gained through selective programs with real research outcomes.

The Centre for New Immigrant Well-Being (CNIW) is a nonprofit organization and media platform dedicated to advancing immigrant well-being through applied research, knowledge translation, community-based programs, and professional and youth training. Supported by a multidisciplinary team of university faculty, clinicians, researchers, and science communicators from North America and China, CNIW works at the intersection of research, education, and social impact, with a focus on Chinese and other Asian immigrant communities.

Now entering its fifth year, the CNIW Supernova Research-Oriented Summer Camp is a two-month intensive program designed to introduce students to authentic, university-level research through real projects and close mentorship.

Program Design & Learning Experience

CNIW Supernova is structured around hands-on research, close mentorship, and progressive skill development, rather than simulated projects or short-term academic exposure.

Students begin with a research foundations bootcamp, where they learn core concepts in public health and essential research skills needed for academic research. Throughout the program, students participate in seminars led by university researchers and industry professionals, gaining insight into academic pathways, research careers, and applied research practice.

In student-led reading groups, participants read and discuss selected academic literature, strengthening critical reading, discussion, and analytical thinking skills.

Under the supervision of professors and experienced researchers, students contribute to active research projects addressing real public health and social issues. These projects allow students to apply research methods in authentic settings and may lead to conference presentation or publication opportunities, depending on project outcomes and individual performance.

What You Will Gain

Participants may gain:

  • Structured training in core research skills
  • Collaborative learning in a small-group environment
  • Direct involvement in real research projects
  • Scientifically validated personality and learning-style assessments (e.g., DOPE)
  • Academic and career planning support
  • Development of communication, teamwork, and critical thinking skills

Upon successful completion, participants may receive a program certificate and, based on performance, may be considered for letters of recommendation, opportunities for domestic and international academic conference presentations, potential publication pathways, and future research roles or externally funded summer research positions, subject to eligibility requirements.

Who Should Apply

The program is open to high school and early undergraduate students who are interested in academic research and social issues.

It is particularly suitable for students interested in public health, psychology, mental health, and the social sciences, and for those seeking early exposure to diverse research topics and methodologies.

Applicants should be comfortable working in English and motivated to engage in reading, discussion, and collaborative research.

Program Format & Timeline

Program Format

The program combines in-person and online learning and includes:

  • A 7-session intensive instruction series
  • Academic and career development seminars
  • Student-led reading and discussion groups
  • Approximately two months of mentor-guided research work

Students may also participate in academic or industry visits and small-group discussions to gain a clearer understanding of research environments and potential career pathways. All participants work under faculty supervision and gain experience in research design, data collection, analysis, academic writing, and research presentation.

Program Timeline

  • Feb 1 – Feb 28: Applications open
  • Mar 1 – Mar 15: Review and interviews
  • Mar 15 – Apr 15: Offer acceptance and tuition payment
  • Early July – Late August: Program delivery
  • Late August: Final presentations and program wrap-up

How to Apply

Please email the following materials:

  • Resume
  • Academic transcript
  • Letter of recommendation (optional)

📧 Email: info@cniw.org
📌 Subject line: 2026 Summer Research Program Application – Name – Age

Tuition & Fees

  • Tuition: CAD $4,000 per student
  • Externally funded summer research positions may be available for exceptional Canadian citizens or permanent residents, as well as CNIW alumni, subject to eligibility and funding availability
  • International students are not eligible for externally funded positions
  • Early Bird Discount: 10% off for registrations completed by February 15

Contact

Program Coordinators:
Ms. Cao | Ms. Han

📧 info@cniw.org
📞 647-451-8578 / 647-863-0528
💬 WeChat: CNIW2022