Black Student Researchers Pathway to USRA

If you self-identify as Black or Black multiracial and identify with Black ancestry, apply to the Black Student USRA program. To apply through this pathway, all applications for CIHR, SSHRC, or NSERC USRA must be submitted through the NSERC online portal:

1. Log into the NSERC online portal.
2. Select “Personal Profile” from the menu on the left.
3. On the “Form 202 Part 1 - Personal Profile” page, scroll down to the “Self-identification statement” section. Under “Statement 2: Black applicants,” indicate that you self-identify as Black.
4. Select “Application Profile” from the menu on the left.
5. Indicate if the research proposal you’re submitting is for NSERC, CIHR, or SSHRC USRA. Refer to the federal guidelines on selecting the appropriate federal granting agency when making this choice for your proposed research project.

Review the steps on how to apply for a USRA and follow the application instructions for the faculty, school, or department you’re applying to.

Review the USRA page for details on eligibility requirements, application instructions, important timelines, and more.

For questions about the application process or general inquiries, contact your faculty or school USRA Coordinator.

As a second resource, you can also contact the NSERC USRA Liaison Officer at the UBC Career Centre at nserc.usra@ubc.ca.