International Research Opportunities - HMB394Y0

HMB394Y0: International Research Project in Human Biology 

The Human Biology Program offers students the chance to take their learning beyond the classroom, and beyond Canada, through a range of International research experiences. Whether you're interested in joining a summer abroad program, participating in a global exchange, or contributing to faculty-led research in the field, these opportunities allow you to earn academic credit while gaining hands-on experience in real research settings around the world.

From flexible research placements across partner institutions abroad to diverse lab environments that accommodate a wide range of student interests, HMB394Y0 gives HMB students an opportunity to explore global research settings and build foundational experience.

 

What is HMB394Y0?

HMB394Y0 is a 1.0 full credit equivalent (FCE) summer research course that allows Human Biology students to complete an independent research project abroad under the supervision of a faculty member at an approved university.

More information on the course can be found below.

 

HMB394Y0 is offered through the Summer Research Exchange Program (SREP), which allows students to spend 8-16 weeks aborad between May and August conducting full-time lab based research at an international partner institution. 

Locations can vary, ranging from Austria, Belgium, Chile, China, Czechia, Denmark, Franch, Germany, Hong Kong, Singapore, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, UK, South Korea, and Vietnam.

Eligibility

To apply, students must:

  1. Be a degree seeking student throughout the entire process until completion of the program

  2. Be registered in at least one course at the time of application

  3. Have a minimum 2.25cGPA (higher requirement by most institutions)

  4. Have 2+ years of study completed by the time of participation (exceptions apply)

These courses are designed for students who want to gain global research experience while earning U of T credit toward their degree. As part of SREP, you'll be matched with a supervisor and project based on your academic background, research interests, and location preferences, or, for some destinations, you may need to arrange your own supervisor or project. 

The application process, prerequisites, frequently asked questions, and more information can be found on the Summer Research Exchange Program web page. 

 

What's the Difference Between HMB396Y0 and HMB394Y0?

While both HMB394 and HMB396 offer students the chance to conduct research abroad for academic credit, they differ in structure and flexibility. 

   HMB394Y0

  • Prerequisite: 8.5 credits including relevant HMB courses

  • Coordinated by: Centre for International Experience (CIE) 

    • More flexible

    • Suitable for students earlier in their research training

    • Broader range of research settings, topics, and partner universities

HMB396Y0

  • Prerequisite: A 300-level science lab course + special permission of the Human Biology Program 

  • Coordinated by: Woodsworth College

    • Requires more research preparation

    • Students must already have advanced lab experience

    • Placement is more structured and selective

    • Application requires program approval

 

How Do I Apply?

 

Funding and Scholarships for Research Abroad

Students completing international research projects through HMB394Y0 may be eligible for a variety of scholarships and awards offered by U of T colleges and divisions to support global learning and research abroad. Funding opportunities vary by college and program, and may help offset travel, living, or program-related costs. Because eligibility and award amounts differ across units, students are encouraged to review available options and confirm details directly with the awarding body.

Explore awards through:

 

Helpful Resources:

To FInd more information on the syllabi, prerequisites, and application forms for HMB394Y0, follow the helpful links below:

HMB394Y0 - SREP web page 

HMB394Y0 - Application Form