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Research Volunteer Opportunities
Immerse yourself in the dynamic world of research.
Whether you're drawn to laboratory work or clinical research, our research volunteer programs provide valuable experience within an academic hospital environment. Learn more about each program, the commitment required and when to apply by navigating through the sections below.
Browse research volunteer programs accepting applications
Note: if you don't see any opportunities posted for these programs, please refer to their individual webpages for the application timelines for the next intake.
The Canadian Laboratory Initiative on Pediatric Reference Intervals (CALIPER) aims to improve the diagnosis and monitoring of children and adolescents by establishing a comprehensive database of reference intervals for blood test results.
The SickKids Emergency Assistants for Research in Child Health (SEARCH) facilitates clinical research and quality improvement efforts in the emergency department.
The SickKids Program for Ambassadors of Rheumatology Research and Knowledge (SPARRK) Program supports the Division of Rheumatology through its research, clinical, and administrative efforts.
The Thrombosis Research and Clinical Support Program (TRaCS) supports research and clinical initiatives in the Thrombosis Clinic.
Other research volunteer opportunities
SickKids has nearly 300 scientists and over 400 project and team investigators, all dedicated to groundbreaking research across seven key areas. Take a closer look at each program to meet the scientists and learn about their pioneering work.
If you find a match between your interests and skills and our research, reach out directly to the scientist. While not all scientists may have volunteer openings, we encourage you to inquire as opportunities that match your skill set may be available. While we value all expressions of interest, candidates will only be contacted when an opportunity exists that aligns with their skills.
Here's what you'll need
To be eligible for the program, you must:
- Be 18 years and older, with select research volunteer programs available to 16 and 17-year-olds during July and August.
- Maintain a regular commitment as per program expectations that does not exceed 15 hours a week across all volunteer positions.
- Be able to attend the orientation dates indicated on the posting (research volunteer programs only).
- Be willing to complete the onboarding requirements, some of which have an associated cost.
- Not have completed a health-related master’s degree (excluding medical school students), PhD, Canadian medical school degree or be licensed to practice medicine in Canada.
Volunteer Testimonial
Charlie, Research Volunteer
Volunteering at SickKids has been an incredibly rewarding experience. What I love most is the variety—no two shifts are ever the same, and I get to meet new patients, caregivers, and staff each week. SickKids is more than just a hospital; it’s a place that feels welcoming and warm. I highly recommend volunteering at SickKids to anyone looking for hands-on experience that allows you to see the impact you're making.
Absolutely! Our programs welcome international volunteers. To participate, you must be able to complete the onboarding requirements and, if necessary, have them translated into English. It's important to note that international volunteers must reside in Ontario for duration of their placement. Like all volunteers, international participants cannot receive academic credit, funding, or compensation for their time with us.
Absolutely! We welcome your interest in volunteering provided you are not currently in residency or licensed to practice medicine in Canada. While your medical background is highly valued, our research volunteer roles are designed to be inclusive of individuals from diverse educational backgrounds and do not specifically require medical knowledge or experience. The tasks you'll engage in are accessible and beneficial for all volunteers.
Not at all! We welcome applicants from all backgrounds to apply for our research volunteer roles. Some of our programs may consider previous research experience an asset, but many are open to providing individuals with their first research experience. If you don't have a background in research, we encourage you to highlight your transferable skills, knowledge and enthusiasm for learning in your application.
Yes, there are! We provide a range of research volunteer roles, some of which can accommodate hybrid or remote volunteering. Please note that all remote volunteering must be conducted within Ontario. Each posted opportunity clearly states whether it is on-site, hybrid, or remote. For direct-match opportunities, make sure to specify your preference or requirement for an on-site, hybrid, or remote opportunity to ensure a suitable match.
Yes! Holding multiple volunteer roles is possible, provided you can fulfill the commitment for each, and your total volunteer hours are not more than 15 per week. Additionally, your role in the Adult Volunteer Program can’t be in the same department as your role in research. Please apply through the careers site and mention your current volunteer status in the affiliation screening question.
Research volunteer roles typically last four to six months. The minimum duration for an initial placement is one month, and it can extend up to a year. After a year, we'll review the role and your eligibility before considering an extension.
Potentially, yes. Transitioning to a research volunteer status may be an option depending on several factors, including your educational status, commitment level and the ongoing needs of the organization. Please be aware that individuals who have completed a master’s degree or PhD are not permitted to transition to a volunteer status. Research students interested in continuing as volunteers should have their supervisors contact Volunteer Resources for further information.