LAKELAND - Portage College has been approved for $82,500 in funding to pay current students in their health-services programming to work through the summer months of the next two years assisting with research projects.
Through the Summer Research Studentship (SRS) program, which is administered by Alberta Innovates, undergraduate students-as well as those enrolled in relevant diploma or certificate programs-are providing with paid learning opportunities at post-secondary institutions across the province. The program is exclusively available to current Portage students enrolled in the Practical Nursing, Emergency Medical Responder, Primary Care Paramedicine and Advanced Care Paramedic programs.
Opening the door
Dr. Shun Li, the college’s Dean of Health and Wellness, says the Alberta Innovates Summer Research Studentship program provides funding to support students who are engaging in health and medical research during the summer months at Portage College. It can also build the college’s reputation as a research institute.
The objectives of the SRS program, he explained, are to increase awareness and interest in research and innovation careers, create opportunities for emerging talent to acquire experience and connections in the province’s health-related innovation streams, increase the competitiveness of Alberta as a destination for research and innovation talent, as well as to leverage partner relationships to advance digital health innovation in Alberta.
“The four priority areas are Digital or Data Driven Health Research, Commercialization, and Health System Transformation,” he said.
The program will see as many as five students sponsored for each summer session, along with supervisors. Those approved for sponsorship will receive a studentship of a maximum of $700 over eight weeks totalling $5,600. In addition to gaining research experience, students who participate in the SRS program will also be able to attend workshops as well as the annual Alberta Innovates conference, which is held in Calgary.
Dr. Donna Feledichuk, the Vice President of Academics and Research at Portage College, said the Alberta Innovates grant gives Portage College the opportunity to showcase the faculty’s expertise in health.
“I am thrilled that we are expanding our applied research in the area of health care. Portage College has fantastic faculty that bring a breadth and depth of knowledge and experience to our region and their profession,” Feledichuk stated. “As we grow our research mandate, I look forward to using our expertise to assist stakeholders in our region.”
