Optimize your chance for Success with NSERC*

Transcription

1 Optimize your chance for Success with NSERC* Dr. Faye Murrin Associate Dean School of Graduate Studies Bitters Pub Sept 24 th 2013

2 School of Graduate Studies Scholarships Officer *Gail Lamkin *Bruneau Innovation Centre 2 nd Floor IIC2012

3 NSERC Supports Research in Natural Sciences and Engineering Alexander Graham Bell CGS Masters Scholarships Dec ½, 2013 $17,500 for 12 months nonrenewable - from undergrad to master s program - directly from undergrad to doctoral program (0 to 12 months) - roll-over while in master s to doctoral program Alexander Graham Bell CGS Doctoral Awards $35,000 for 36 months and PGS Awards $20,000 for up to 48 months October 16, from master s to doctoral program - directly from undergrad to doctoral program (4 to 36 months) Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Doctoral) Sept 27, 2013 $50,000 per year for up to 36 months

4 This presentation 1. Introduction Important NSERC sites 2. Master s Program Eligibility Considerations Evaluation Application Process & deadlines 3. Doctoral PGS/CGS Program Eligibility Considerations Evaluation Application Process & deadlines Tips on completing Form 201/200 : Online & Free form pages Other Funding opportunities

5 Important NSERC sites NSERC home NSERC Program Guide for Students and Fellows NSERC Tutorial Videos * NSERC Online services Master s Program NSERC s information and instructions for completing a doctoral application - NSERC blank form Etudiants/index_eng.asp Etudiants/Videos-Videos/Index_eng.asp ServicesEnLigne/Index_eng.asp Etudiants/PG-CS/CGSM-BESCM_eng.asp ServicesEnLigne/instructions/201/e.asp ServicesEnLigne/pdf/F201_e.pdf

6 Harmonized CGS Master s Program For the first time, this year the CGS M application process is the same for all the three tri-agency councils: NSERC, SSHRC, and CIHR. NEW Common CV and Research Portal for online applications Deadline of Dec 2nd evaluation internal

7 To be eligible for a CGS M Scholarship you must: be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident at the time of application be enrolled in, or intend to apply for full-time admission to an eligible graduate program at the master s level at a Canadian university with a CGS M allocation have completed as of December 31 of the year of application, no more than 12 months of full-time studies in: the master s program for which you are requesting funding; or the doctoral program for which you are requesting funding if you were admitted into a doctoral program directly from your bachelor s program or enrolled in a master s program, but are requesting funding for a doctoral program (students transferring from master s to doctoral program) have achieved first-class standing in each of the last 2 years of full-time study or equivalent not be applying in this academic year to SSHRC or CIHR or received a CGS M

8 How do I apply for a CGS M Scholarship? You: go to the website: Etudiants/PG-CS/CGSM-BESCM_eng.asp complete and link the Canadian Common CV (CCV) to the application complete the on-line application form and free form attachments using the Research Portal the links to two reviewers (The Letters of Appraisal must be uploaded to the application before the application can be submitted online) attach the official transcripts to the application before submitting online by the deadline date of December 1 (December 2 nd since the 1 st is on a Sunday)

9 How do I apply for a CGS M Scholarship? (cont d) SGS: receives and verifies the completed applications contacts selected applicants selects applications (MUN Selection Committee) NSERC CGS M quota 11 Competition results are announced April 1 through the Research Portal

10 Masters Scholarship Evaluation Criteria Academic excellence - 50% Research potential - 30% Personal Characteristics and Interpersonal skills - 20%

11 The CGS M Application Applicants are required to complete the CGS M template of the CCV from the Canadian Common CV Web site and link the CCV to the application Applicants are required to go to the Research Portal to sign in, click on Create Applications to gain access to the funding opportunities (programs) available. Select the funding opportunity in the list and click on create

12 The CGS M Application Cont d Applicants are required to complete the following sections on the application: Identification Application Title It will be used for publication purposes. It should describe the research for which you are seeking support Field of Research Select the field of research: Natural Sciences and Engineering This section will provide discipline codes, which will be used in the Primary and/or Secondary Field of Study sections of the application and provides a list of universities for the Proposed Canadian University section of the application

13 The CGS M Application Cont d Start Date or Proposed Start Date of Program of Study Enter the number of months, as of December 31 of the year of application, you will have completed in your program of study. If you are not currently enrolled in a program of study, indicate 0 months Proposed Host Organization Indicated the host organization. Indicate the organization where you are currently enrolled in an eligible program of study and wish to pursue your studies; or indicate the organization where you intend to apply for full-time admission to an eligible program of study if not currently enrolled at a university of your choice Summary of Proposal and Lay Title Provide a summary and a title for your project in language clear to members of the general public

14 The CGS M Application Cont d Activity Details Keywords, Primary Field of Study and Secondary Field of Study Select the Field(s) of Study that closely correspond to your proposed research Use keywords to further describe your proposed field of study

15 CGS M Program of Study (maximum of 1 page) Provide background information to position your proposed research within the context of the current knowledge in the field State the objectives and hypothesis, and outline the experimental or theoretical approach to be taken (citing literature pertinent to the proposal), and the methods and procedures to be used. State the significance of the proposed research to a field of fields in the social sciences and/or humanities If you have not yet decide on a specific project, you must still provide a detailed description of a research project that interests you. You are not bound by this project. You may change your direction during the course of the award

16 To have a good application: Read program description and application instructions carefully prior to completing the application form online Be clear, concise, coherent, error-free and complete Have someone read and comment on your Program of Study Check that your application is complete and correct Let referees know the deadline date Ensure your list of publications provides complete bibliographic information Do not use a font size smaller than 12 pt Do not use jargon or highly technical language Do not exceed the page limits

17 CGS/PGS Doctoral Awards Process as previous years On line application Know your departmental deadline for transcript submission to designate Deadline to SGS - Dec 2 nd Competition internal and national

18 CGS/PGS Doctoral Awards Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident Single application to PGS, tops awarded CGS Application process - Form 201 Must login, complete and submit online (if you wish you can find pdf at ServicesEnLigne/Forms-Formulaires_eng.asp) SGS deadline: Wednesday, October 16 th Agency deadline: for direct applications: October 15

19 CGS/PGS Doctoral Awards Selection Criteria & Relative Weight PGS-D Academic Excellence 30 Research Ability/Potential Oral/Written Communication Skills, Interpersonal and Leadership Abilities Total 100

20 How will reviewers rate your application? Criterion Indicators Form 201 evidence Academic Excellence Research Potential Communication, Interpersonal and Leadership Abilities duration of previous study scholarships/awards academic record Dept/Univ rankings and comments Scholarships/awards acad. training/relevant experience contributions to research publications, conf., patents, reports) research proposal justification for location (PDF Only) critical thinking, initiative, ability to complete projects awards for papers, presentations application quality rating and candidate evaluation participation in publication preparation professional & extracurricular activities, collaborations, mentoring, supervision, project management, committee chairs, elected offices etc, ratings P 1 (academic background), P 5 thesis completed P 4 (scholarships table) University transcripts App. 2 parts II P 4 (scholarships table) P 1,2 relevant experience, Part II sect 3, App. 1 P 4 (thesis summary), Part II sect 1 (articles published), sect 2 (most significant contributions Doc. only!), sect 3 (applicant s statement), App. 1 Part II (outline of research) P 5 (justification for tenure) Part II sect 3 (applicant s statement), App. 1, 2 P 1 (academic background, P 5 (theses), App. 1 P 4 (scholarships table) Part II (outline of research), P 5 (justification for tenure - PDF), Part II sect 3 (applicant s statement) App. 1 and 2 (Parts II and III) Part II sect 2 (most significant contributions Doc. only!), App. 1 P 1,2 (relevant experience) Part II sect 3 (applicant s statement) App. 1

21 Eligibility considerations Citizenship/Award Area of research (NSE) Program of study / University Academic standing Time in program Only one Tri-Agency at a time for eligibility details CRSNG/Eligibility-Admissibilite/students-etudiants_eng.asp

22 Citizenship To Apply for CGS/PGS Support You Must Be: A Canadian citizen OR Permanent Resident of Canada eg. CGS/PGS The following are also open to International students Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships Program (Vanier CGS) Industrial Postgraduate Scholarships Programs (IPS) Visiting Fellowships in Canadian Government Laboratories (VF) Collaborative Research and Training Experience (CREATE) Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship (BPDF - NEW)

23 Eligibility of Program of Study and Proposed Research

24 Eligibility: also you should hold or expect to hold (at take-up date) a degree in NSE from a University recognized by NSERC intend to pursue full time* grad studies and research in NSE in the following year maintained 1st class average in last two years (MUN GPA 3.5 or better; some leniency for IPS) *PGS/CGS part time possible in special circumstances; IPS part time possible for FT employees

25 Eligibility: Your registration status, and the number of months completed in the program for which you are requesting funding, will have an impact on your eligibility to apply. NSERC Video 2012 * * Please note that the PGS M program is discontinued as 2013

26 How do I apply? You the applicant: 1. Read/heed NSERC web site important links on second slide! 2. Provide University designate in your department with copies of all transcripts by departmental deadline (this will be before the SGS deadline for submission of the completed application) ; 3. Contact two reviewers, and provide them with relevant information about you 4. Register and log in add designate s name and information to the application. (Designate will instantly and automatically be sent an e-invitation to upload your transcripts) provide contact information of two referees. (Referees will instantly and automatically be sent an e-invitation to complete and submit their letter / report on the applicant - all online) complete on-line form 201 & attach free form pages Print it out and ask mentors and colleagues for comments for sure; don t bore your the reviewers as they only have a very limited time per application. verify and submit by SGS deadline of Oct 16 th 2013

27 How do I apply? con t your referees (two needed for submission to SGS): Referees complete and submit reference letter online Do give the referee time, and information about yourself, so that s/he can personalize the reference, and address each of the main criteria: Academics, Research and Leadership your academic unit: University designate attaches transcripts Ensure that the designate has all the appropriate transcripts in good time prior to the departmental deadline (which is earlier than the final submission of your application online by the SGS deadline of October ).

28 How do I apply? -what happens next SGS: 1. receives and verifies completed applications (may contact you) 2. ranks all Memorial applications (MUN selection committee meets in camera) 3. forwards quota to NSERC (22 in 2013) by NSERC s deadline and notifies applicants if they have or have not been forwarded; plus alternative list NSERC: 1. receives applications 2. reviews applications and selects successful applications (12 committees in Ottawa Feb.) 3. notifies applicants (March)

29 Very good if: What are my chances? your marks are 1 st class (mostly A s & maybe a few B s!!) you read/heed NSERC program guide/form 201 instructions you take advice from experienced faculty and others you submit a clean, error-free, self-consistent application you submit a clear, succinct research proposal your reference letters are personalized you meet deadlines CGS/PGS MUN quota = 22 in 2013 CGS Master s = 11 0n 2013 IPS higher 90%, less stringent, no deadlines Vanier MUN (NSERC) quota: 2008, 2012 PDF 10-15%

30 Tips on completing the application Form 201* Part 1 ONLINE PAGES online forms Final 6-8 pages (depending on the award) Plus referees reports and transcripts *Yes - PGS/CGS IPS PDF no - USRA,Vanier, Banting Part 2 FREE-FORM PAGES Complete in word processor & attach A. Outline of Proposed Research 1 page B. Justification for Eligibility of proposed research C. Contributions and Statement 1 or 2 pages (M or D)

31 Part 1 not free form ONLINE FORM-PAGES Consent Form 1. Cover page 2. Academic background 3. Academic research and other relevant work experience 4. Proposed Location of tenure 5. Scholarships and other awards offered 6. Theses completed or in progress (not M) 7. Justification for location of tenure (not M) Transcripts Report on the applicant (2!!)

32 Form 201 tips What you see online

33 Form 201 tips Up to date address Notify if a change

34 If you list a degree you need to include the transcript

35 Form 201 tips NSE relevant. Demonstrate leadership, research ability & communication skills. Indicate if experience was gained in program of study (lab demo, teaching etc., internships, placements) Do not include your graduate program in this section.

36 Form 201 tips These are very important. choose carefully PGS specify max of three institutions; IPS specify University and industry partner

37 Form 201 tips List competitive, university level awards only, declined awards OK; 0$ value awards OK; max 10, most recent first, list award value per year

38 Form 201 tips CGS/PGSD and PDF only! Provide full title and summary of most recent thesis completed or in progress in plain language (modify thesis abstract if necessary); if no thesis, summarize research project or research-related work experience. Do not repeat the information provided in the outline of proposed research.

39 Form 201 tips Only applicable for PDF applicants. PGS M and PGS D are no longer required to make a special request to hold their award abroad (CGSM/CGSD not eligible).

40 Form 201 tips Time sensitive. Contact reference in person if possible, establish that they will give you a good reference, provide good information (remind them of your achievements and goals), give them a copy of your completed form 201 and your CV. Direct them to the how to complete Appendix 1 NSERC URL: ServicesEnLigne/Forms-Formulaires_eng.asp Two needed (one from supervisor/mentor); they should address: research ability, communication skills, interpersonal and leadership abilities. GIVE THEM THE INFORMATION (specific examples) TO MAKE IT PERSONAL! (not required for IPS)

41 Form 201 tips You MUST check the box to be considered for supplements (additional funds, $5,000 - $17,300, from other organizations)! for detailed information/requirements on specific supplements see: crsng.gc.ca/students-etudiants/pg- CS/Supplements-Supplements/index_eng.asp Optional

42 Part 2 A FREE FORM PAGE(S)* (attachments) A. Outline of Proposed Research 1 page B. Justification for Eligibility of proposed research 1 page C. Contributions and Statement 2 pages (D, IPS) (4 PDF) *Follow the format standards of the General Presentation found in the instructions.

43 A. Outline of Proposed Research (free form, maximum one page) Write in plain language White space is missed opportunity But do not crowd it make it easy for the reviewers Error free, sensible headings and format Readable by non-expert Limited acronyms or abbreviations Do not duplicate thesis summary on p 4 Provide brief introduction/background (why is the research important?) List clear objectives (what are you going to do?) Outline methodology (how are you going to do it?) Add figures and literature citations if appropriate (b&w) If a continuation of your previous work, why is it worth continuing? No specific project? PGS M applicants may describe a project that interests you. IPS applicants should outline benefits to the company

44 Write for an intelligent non-expert They want to know that scarce public funds are wisely used Ask an non-expert to review it Ask others too Listen to advice and take what is useful. don t take criticism personally.

45 B. Justification for Eligibility of Proposed Research - NEW 1 page Complete if your research falls under the mandate of more than one federal granting agency Psychology, management studies, geography, phys education, bio-med engineering, health, bioinformatics, biostatistics etc Answer: Why predominantly NSE?

46 c. Contributions and Statement c. Contributions and Statement 2 pages (D, IPS) (4 PDF) Part I: Contributions to research and development Part II: Most significant contributions to research development (complete only if applying for a PGS D) Part III: Applicant s statement a) Research Experience b) Relevant Activities c) Special Circumstances (Include if warranted!)

47 Deadline for 2013 NSERC PGS/CGS doctoral Applications 1.? - Transcripts to your (departmental) University designate - check with your department for the date 2. Oct 16 Completed applications submitted online (and accessible to School of Graduate Studies) (Oct Students submitting directly to NSERC)

48 Maximum of FOUR (4) years total support possible for grad program Total = Master s (1) + PhD support Exceptions : Vanier CGS, IPS (2 + 3)

49 What other funding opportunities are available? 1. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Vanier CGS) 2. Alexander Graham Bell Canada Graduate Scholarships (CGS) Master s program 3. Alexander Graham Bell Canada Graduate Scholarships (CGS) doctoral program 4. NSERC Postgraduate Scholarships (PGS) 5. Industrial Postgraduate Scholarships (IPS) 6. CGS Michael Smith Foreign Study Supplements 7. Postdoctoral Fellowships NSERC or Banting PDF 8. USRA Undergrad student research awards 9. etc!

50 Vanier CGS Awards $50,000 a year for 3 years outstanding doctoral student at a Canadian university no citizenship restrictions leadership & scholarship Harmonized Tri-Agency process Application details at On-line application submission via ResearchNet SGS deadline: Sept 27, 2013 Memorial NSERC Quota: 5

51 IPS Industrial Postgraduate Scholarship Gain work experience while completing degree $21,000 min for M level international students may be eligible quick turn-around industry partner required Application process - Form 200 via pdf ServicesEnLigne/Forms-Formulaires_eng.asp or login complete online & print hardcopy to send in cannot be submitted online SGS deadline: none Agency deadline: none

52 The Canada Graduate Scholarship (CGS) Michael Smith Foreign Study Supplement (FSS) This supplement program provides additional funding for current recipients of the Joseph-Armand Bombardier Scholarships or Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships so that they may obtain research experience outside of Canada Funding will be awarded for a maximum of six months. The related research study period abroad normally lasts between three and six months. SGS deadlines: Sept 10 and May For complete eligibility details:

53 NSERC Postdoctoral Fellowship $40,000 year for 2 years Canadian Citizen or PR; Canada or abroad Application process - Form 201 Must login, complete, submit online Can access pdf ServicesEnLigne/Forms-Formulaires_eng.asp (SGS deadline: none, submit directly to NSERC) Agency deadline: Oct. 15, 2013 emphasis on research potential

54 NSERC Postdoc cont. New: NSERC has decided to reduce the maximum number of applications an individual may submit in a lifetime to its PDF program from two to one. ( NP/PDF-BP_eng.asp). As a transition measure, applications from individuals who have previously submitted an application for an NSERC PDF and who remain eligible to apply in the upcoming competition will be accepted.

55 Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship $70,000 a year for 2 years nominated by university no citizenship restriction ResearchNet Application System Internal deadline Office of Research Services : 12:00 p.m. (noon) Sept 27, 2013

56 School of Graduate Studies Brunneau Innovation Centre 2 nd Floor IIC2012 SGS is here to help you! Gail Lamkin glamkin@mun.ca GSU SGS