International Research Opportunities - HMB396Y0

HMB396Y0: 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 structured international research placements coordinated through approved partner universities to advanced lab projects abroad, HMB396Y0 offers experienced HMB students the chance to take their skills global and work in settings that match their research background.

 

 

Student Testimonial on HMB396Y0:

"I took HMB396 in Taiwan and it was an overall great experience. I completed my project at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University.

It was my first time learning various research and lab techniques such as Western blotting and bacterial transformations. It also gave me the opportunity to travel alone to a new country and meet so many incredible people!" - Mindi Zhao, previous HMB396 student.

 

 

What is HMB396Y0?

HMB396Y0 is a 1.0 full credit equivalent (FCE) summer research course offered through the Human Biology Program that gives students the opportunity to earn academic credit while gaining hands-on research experience abroad. More information on the course can be found below.

 

HMB396 is a U of T–organized Summer Abroad course that offers full-time, supervised research placements at two fixed international locations: Shandong University (China) and National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (Taiwan). Open to all Human Biology students, the course provides a unique opportunity to gain hands-on international research experience while earning credit toward your degree.

 

 

In China, the program is hosted by the Cheeloo College of Medicine at Shandong University, one of the country’s largest and most prestigious universities, known for its extensive hospital-based laboratories. Students conduct research primarily in medical and clinical lab settings, with recent topics including neuroscience, infection and immunity, and genetics and epigenetics.

 

 

In Taiwan, the program takes place in the College of Biological Science and Technology at National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University (NYCU), a top research university located in the heart of Hsinchu Science Park,  often referred to as the “Silicon Valley of Asia.” Students work in university laboratories on projects that may involve bio nanotechnology, molecular biology, and metabolic engineering.

 

 

At both locations, supervisors are pre-arranged by the host institution, and projects are matched to students’ academic background and interests. Participants learn laboratory techniques, data analysis, and research methods, while also engaging in lab discussions, journal clubs, and scientific presentations. The program runs for approximately 9 weeks during the summer.

 

The application process, costs, course overviews, syllabi and more can be found on the Summer Abroad Website.

 

Eligibility

To apply, students must:

  1. Be enrolled in a Human Biology program at the University of Toronto

  2. Have completed at least 8.5 full course equivalents, including relevant courses in Human Biology

  3. Submit one reference letter (an interview may be required)

  4. Submit separate applications if applying to both China and Taiwan program.

  5. HMB396 is not eligible for the CR/NCR option.

 

 

 

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?

For HMB396Y0, applications go through the Summer Abroad website,where you’ll select the program location (Shandong or Taiwan) and submit the required materials. Applications usually open between November and January for the following summer, and spots are limited, so early preparation is key! 

 

Funding and Scholarships for Research Abroad

Students completing international research projects through HMB396Y0 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 HMB396Y0, follow the helpful links below:

HMB396 (China) information

HMB396 (Taiwan) information

HMB396 Application Portal