Blog and Opportunities

2026 North American Comparative Immunology workshop (NACI; May 31 – June 4)

This small, high-impact gathering brings together researchers from across Canada and North America who are interested in investigating immune responses in a wide-range of species.  

At NACI, we highlight research in the evolution of immune systems, development of immune cells, the immune dialogue between host, microbiota, and pathogens, as well as ecological aspects of disease. This work has not only re-defined our understanding of animal immune responses but also informs studies with direct relevance to human health.  In the face of a changing climate, both wildlife and domesticated species used globally in aquaculture and agriculture face severe challenges. Studying organisms that are either directly threatened or species used in industry can provide unique insights into immunobiology, medicine, and evolution, and provide the foundational knowledge for novel therapeutics. 

In collaboration with the Foundation for the Development of the Central Volcanic Mountain Range (FUNDECOR) – a non-profit organization focused on conservation and environmental education based in San Jose, Costa Rica – a group of students from Worcester Polytechnic Institute are working on a project seeking to gather data from top universities in the U.S. and Canada with programs in Environmental Science, Tropical Biology, Forestry, Ecology, and more. This information provides insight on preferences and interest levels that are crucial for the development of FUNDECOR’s academic experience and programs.

They have developed a set of surveys for students and professors to fill out linked below.

Student Survey

Professor Survey

American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine is excited to invite students interested in medical school to their upcoming Dinner with a Doctor Event in Victoria on March 5, 2026. This is an exclusive opportunity to enjoy a complimentary meal while connecting in person with AUC graduates.

Event Details:
🗓️ Date: Thursday, March 5^th
🕕 Time: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
📍 Location: Zambri’s Restaurant (820 Yates St, Victoria)

You will have the opportunity to:

• Network with the doctors and learn what it’s like to live and learn as a medical student
• Find out about the residency matching process and pathway to practice in Canada
• Get tips for applying to medical school and standing out in your application

👉 RSVP is required as seating is limited: RSVP Link

More information on each award here:

Undergraduate Summer Research Award (USRA)

Science Undergraduate Research Award (SURA) & Science Emerging Research Award (SERA)

FORB Indigenous Undergraduate Research Assistant

Applications close this Sunday, February 1!

If a Field School has been on your maybe list, this is your sign. These are hands-on, immersive courses that take you out of the classroom and into real places, real work, and real experience; and for a lot of students, they end up being a highlight of their degree.

We usually see a rush in the final days, so if you’re interested, now’s a great time to take a look and apply before the deadline passes.

Details and application info are on our web site and in the attached Info Sheet. 

Questions? We’re always happy to help at esoffice@uvic.ca.

Please direct your inquiries or send a CV/resumé, your cover letter, and unofficial transcripts to the Director, Jürgen Ehlting at je@uvic.ca and copy aroszmann@uvic.ca.

Biology website for contact info: https://www.uvic.ca/research/centres/forestbiology/people/members/index.php

February 11 | Online 

9:00 am PST | 12:00 pm PST

Are you an international student wondering whether, or how, you should file a Canadian income tax return? Join the International Centre for Students and Gustavson School of Business for an income tax information session, where a representative from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) will share information on receiving benefits and credits, working in Canada, ways to do your taxes, Community Volunteer Income Tax program (CVITP), how to be scam smart, and more. 

Register to receive the Zoom link either for the 9 am or the 12 pm session.

The Library Pitch Competition invites student teams to propose innovative ideas— from digital tools and learning spaces to sustainability initiatives—that could shape the future of UVic Libraries. Selected teams can win cash prizes and gain hands‑on experience working with UVic Libraries and the UVic Innovation Centre. 

The Greater Victoria Green Team will be hosting a habitat restoration activity at UVic to remove invasive plants on Feb. 8th that we’d love for you to join and share with your community! This is a fun, hands-on opportunity to spend time outdoors, meet people, and make a real difference for the local ecosystem! 

NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED: we provide gloves, tools, snacks, and instructions. This activity is open to all ages and abilities, and will run rain or shine.

All we ask is that participants come prepared with long sleeves and pants, a water bottle, and clothes suitable for the weather. The rest is taken care of!

Here are the details:

Date: Sunday, Feb. 8 

What: Invasive English ivy Removal

Where: Alumni Chip Trail entrance at University Drive (near Cedar Hill X Rd)

Time: 9:45am –1:00pm (join for as much time as you are able)

Sign up: bit.ly/gvgt-feb8-2026  or email: Kaitlin@GreenTeamsCanada.ca

Everyone has something positive to gain from these activities whether by getting fresh air, exploring the forest, connecting with others in the community & making friends, gaining hands-on experience, and so much more!

Are you an international student preparing for your co-op term and looking for guidance on obtaining a co-op work permit?  ICS will host in-person Co-op Work Permit Application Drop-in Hours to provide one-on-one assistance. Refer to the links below for detailed information about these drop-in sessions on co-op work permit assistance.

Get Work-Ready: Co-op Work Permit Application Assistance

·         February 10: 11:30am to 1:00pm (PT)

·         February 12: 3:00pm to 4:30pm (PT)

The Warkentin Prize is in recognition of the vision and passion of Dr. Benno P. Warkentin who was an international scholar, teacher, and mentor in the field of soil science.

He believed that young scientists should publish their findings as a means to advance the science of soil and to recognize the contribution that soil science research continues to make towards human welfare.

A prize of $750 has been established to recognize an outstanding recent graduate or current student who has published a refereed article or graduate thesis in the field of Soil Science. 

The application deadline for this award is
February 6, 2026
11:59 p.m. Pacific Time

Optional Letters of Reference will be accepted until
February 13, 2026

Applicants or nominees must submit a brief application via our awards form which can be found at this link:  https://forms.gle/xVegfb4vvvorHp4e8

If you have technical challenges with your submission, email prsssawards@gmail.com

First time published authors are encouraged to apply!

Students who meet the eligibility requirements may apply directly for this award or can be nominated by a PRSSS or CSSS member.  Eligibility is as follows:

• The applicant or nominee must be a current PRSSS member
• Previous recipients of the award are not eligible for subsequent awards
• The PRSSS accepts nominations from PRSSS and CSSS members

The Warkentin Prize is awarded by the Faculty of Land and Food Systems at the University of British Columbia on recommendation of the PRSSS.

Click here for a PDF document with more details.

We are excited to invite you to our upcoming Zoom session dedicated to those interested in pursuing graduate studies in Forensic Science. With the regular application deadline approaching, this will be another information session for the September 2026 intake of the MScFS program. If you’ve been considering advancing your education, better preparing yourself for the job market, or both, this is the perfect opportunity to learn more about our MSc. Forensic Science program at Trent University. We are currently accepting applications; our regular application deadline is February 1, 2026. (with reference letters and other associated documentation to be received by February 15th)

Session Details:

·         Date: Thursday, January 22nd

·         Time: 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM (EST)

Location: Virtual (Zoom)

·         Register here:  https://trentu.zoom.us/meeting/register/9UXATD5TT-mY0jn8NLeFyQ

In this session, we will give an overview of the program and answer key questions, including:

·         Am I eligible to apply to the MSc. Forensic Science program if I don’t have a background in forensic science?

·         How do I prepare a strong application?

·         What can I expect during the application interview?

·         What courses are offered in the program?

·         Where can I complete my summer placement?

·         What types of careers can I pursue after graduation?

Don’t miss this chance to get your questions answered and start your journey to admission!