We don’t offer a formal RA training program or certificate, but the Library is a great place to build the kinds of research skills professors often look for when hiring assistants.

You can:

• Review the guidance and tutorials on our Research Training & Support page

• Book a one-on-one or small group meeting with a Subject Librarian
• Attend Library workshops (when offered)

Through these supports, you can learn how to:

• Develop a literature review
  → Shows your ability to summarize what's already known in a field

• Translate a research question into a search strategy
  → Helps you investigate topics efficiently and thoroughly

• Use databases and advanced techniques (e.g. citation chaining)
  → Enables you to find high-quality sources that others may miss

• Manage and share sources using Zotero or Mendeley
  → Keeps your research organized and makes collaboration easier

• Access archives, grey literature, statistics, and datasets
  → Prepares you to handle unique or hard-to-find materials

• Explore different research methods
  → Helps you understand the approach behind the project you're supporting

• Share findings through posters, podcasts, or publications
  → Useful if you're helping write, edit, or present research

• Manage and archive research data
  → Essential for projects involving data collection or documentation

Library support is most useful when it connects to a real research question, assignment, or project you’re exploring.

Tip: You can also build research experience by:

• Taking courses with research components
• Attending student research events like Research Days
• Talking with professors about their current research
• Exploring past student projects in the MRU Institutional Repository

To learn more about how students get involved in research—including RA roles, Directed Readings, and Honours projects—visit the Advising: Get Involved with Research page.

You can also check out the Undergraduate Research guide for more advice on finding RA opportunities.

Feeling unsure where to start?

You're not alone—many students feel that way at first. You don’t need research experience or the perfect questions. Start small. Attend a workshop, visit a research event, or just ask a librarian—we’re here to help, even if you’re not sure what to ask yet.