1. Lab Volunteering and Work Study

2. Why volunteer in a lab? Resume building Skill building
Potential reference letters
Seeing if research is right for you

3. Western’s Volunteer Program
Look at the postings on Western Career Central:
Many students don’t realize that lab positions are often times posted on Western Career Central; can also find service jobs, etc.

4. Select Search Postings  Volunteer/Unpaid Opportunities
Select the red button reading “search volunteer/unpaid positions “

5. You can narrow down positions by doing an Advanced Search and selecting Western’s Volunteer Program

6. Follow the instructions in each job posting to apply
Look at what is required to apply; often times, they ask for a resume or CV, cover letter and possibly your transcripts

7. Once you get the job, you will have to:
Sign a volunteer contract
Complete appropriate training on OWL
e.g. WHMIS, Lab Safety, etc.
Your principle investigator will give you more information on the training process.

8. Work Study Provides part-time work on campus that accommodates studies
Assist students financially

9. Eligibility You must… Be a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident
Demonstrate financial need
Be registered at main campus with a minimum 60% course load (40% for students with disabilities)
First Year student?
Work Study is generally not offered to first year students, as their financial need is met through the Admission Bursary process; however, you can always apply for the Summer term or the following year.

10. Applying for Work Study
Log onto Student Center (
Locate Financial Assistance link (under Student Service Links)
Financial Assistance located on right-side of the page; once you select that link, it will take you to a page where you can apply to the Work Study program (involves providing your own financial information as well as your parent’s)

11. Finding a Placement
Log onto the Work Study website (
Once you are approved for Work Study, you will be able to login into the Work Study website; use your UWO login

12. There, you will find listings

14. None of these positions appeal to you?
Do a little digging! Some professors don’t post positions through Western’s Volunteer Program, that doesn’t mean they don’t need your help!
What if none of the research position excites you?

15. Take Initiative
Look into research projects and contact profs that you’d be interested in working with

17. Their pages will be detailed with their current research projects

18. What will make me stand out?
Expert Panel

19. Thanks so much for your time!
Questions?
Thanks so much for your time!
Feel free to us: