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October 26,2026 | Digest No. 501
Caffeinate a Grad: Connect with a BPK Graduate Student
Curious about getting involved in research, working in a lab, or pursuing graduate school? BURN’s Caffeinate a Grad program connects undergraduate students with BPK graduate students for informal coffee chats.
Our goal is to make exploring these pathways more approachable by providing a casual, low-pressure setting to ask questions and learn from graduate students’ experiences.
Share your availability, labs of interest, and questions through the form below. We’ll use your responses to match you with a graduate student for a brief conversation, either in person or virtually.
Undergraduate interest form:
https://forms.gle/XdUs84YKJPQXN7ex8
BPK Information Session
If you are interested in our Kinesiology, Biomedical Physiology, and Behavioural Neuroscience programs, attend the upcoming information session! You will be introduced to your support team and resources to help you succeed and given an overview of the internal transfer process for our intended majors.
Date & Time: Wednesday, Oct 28th, from 12:30-1:30pm
Location: Hybrid (In-person & Zoom)
Sci- Space (AQ 3146) - We have 50 in-person seats available. Please register for an in-person spot here on Eventbrite.
BPK Seminar Series-Fall 2026
Active Health and Rehabilitation Concentration - KIN Majors
Are you an approved KIN major working towards the Active Health and Rehabilitation concentration?
Please check your Advising Transcript under Student Programs to confirm that the concentration is listed.
If it is listed: no action is needed.
If it is not listed: send your name and student number to the BPK advisor via contact the advisor form, and we will add the concentration to your student record.
BPK 343 and BPK 482 Enrolment Information
SFU is required by law to ensure that every student registered in a practicum that involves working with children or vulnerable adults undergoes a CRRA Criminal Record Check. The University must submit consent forms with payment to the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General. SFU is prohibited by law to permit students to work with children or vulnerable adults without a CRRA Criminal Record Check. List of BPK Courses requiring a CRRA Criminal Record Check is as follows:
- BPK 343 – Active Health: Assessment & Programming
- BPK 482 - Ergonomics and Rehabilitation
The Criminal Record Check is coded as a prerequisite for the above courses and cannot be waived by law.
Please refer to the process for Criminal Records Check on SFU Student Service website here: https://www.sfu.ca/students/criminalrecords.html
By law, SFU cannot accept CRC's done through other agencies including the RCMP. Students with criminal record checks conducted through agencies other than the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General are still expected to fulfill this requirement. Further, the process for a Criminal Record Check must be undertaken by SFU only.
Since the document is valid for 5 years, it would be a good idea to get it done far in advance of your enrollment for any of the listed courses as the processing time can vary.
In an effort to provide undergraduate students the opportunity to contribute to STEM research literature, we have established our Mentored Paper Initiative. Successfully selected applicants will have the opportunity to be partnered with a graduate student as they write a paper that is of publishable quality in the URNCST Journal. The topic of the paper will be in the graduate student’s area of expertise to allow them to more effectively guide the students throughout the writing process. Students will be mentored from the design stage to write up, and the final paper will be peer-reviewed by another graduate student, to allow the students to experience external-feedback. This opportunity provides undergraduate students the chance to improve their scientific writing skills and go through the entire process of writing an academic paper while working under the supervision of a graduate student.
In our first 19 rounds, we had an outstanding volume of submissions, a competitive fraction of whom was paired with a graduate student mentor and wrote a manuscript. Many of these manuscripts are undergoing peer-review or have already been published as you read this email! With the success that this program has garnered, we anticipate that this 20th round will be no different and invite YOU to submit an abstract before the deadline closes on Sunday, November 01, 2026 @ 11:59PM EST.
To submit an abstract and learn more, please visit: https://www.urncst.com/index.php/urncst/mentored_paper
Should you have any questions, please direct your queries to competition@urncst.com. We look forward to receiving your submission!
Are you an undergraduate student passionate about advancing child health research?
The BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute Rising Scholars Undergraduate Summer Studentship is a fully funded nine-week program designed to break through barriers, build research skills, and connect students with inspiring mentors in the field.
Dates: Monday, May 31 to Friday, July 30, 2027
Location: BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute, Vancouver, BC
The Rising Scholars Undergraduate Summer Studentship includes:
• Hands-on Research Experience: Direct involvement in an assigned research project focused on advancing child health research
• Funding: A $6,000 salary stipend for nine weeks of work (30/hours/week)
• Housing and Travel Allowance: Paid accommodations in Vancouver, BC plus travel support
• Professional Development: Access to skill-building workshops, networking, special events and other resources aimed at building research and leadership skills
• Mentorship: Guidance from world-class researchers in the field of child health
Who Should Apply?
Current undergraduate students who:
- Self-identify as a member of an equity-denied community, within BC or the Yukon
- Demonstrate financial need for accessing training and resources
- Are a registered resident of BC or the Yukon who—when not attending university—resides within BC but outside the Greater Vancouver/Fraser Valley region during summer months
(International students are not eligible to apply)
- Are interested in pursuing a career related to child health research
No prior research experience is required. All necessary training will be provided.
*Please note, students who have previously received a BCCHR Summer Studentship are ineligible to apply.
Application Deadline: Monday, November 30, 2026
Apply Now: https://www.bcchr.ca/our-programs/rising-scholars/
For full program details, eligibility, and application requirements, please visit our website.
If you have questions, contact us at resinfo@bcchr.ca.
Postgraduate study in London
20% award across Brunel's eligible postgraduate taught portfolio
Simon Fraser Brunel Global Postgraduate Award
For eligible Simon Fraser University graduates interested in postgraduate study at Brunel University of London
This award is available to eligible Simon Fraser University graduates progressing to eligible full-time, campus-based postgraduate taught programmes at Brunel. Students should review Brunel's programme information and award terms to identify options that fit their academic and professional goals
Calling All Ergonomics Enthusiasts
The Association of Canadian Ergonomists (ACE) is now offering FREE student memberships! 💼💡
Join ACE, the authoritative voice of ergonomics in Canada, as we unite professionals to optimize human and organizational well-being. With a thriving community of over 500 members nationwide, ACE is dedicated to fostering accountability, collaboration, competence, diversity, and integrity.
Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to join a bilingual, professional network and gain access to invaluable resources and connections. Seize the chance to shape the future of ergonomics both nationally and internationally!
Science and Math Peer Academic Support: Online and Burnaby Campuses
Have questions about your general 1st/2nd year science courses? Need help on your assignments and upcoming midterms? Science and Math Peer Academic Support is back both virtually and in-person to help! Check out the schedule and learn how you can enroll here: Peer Academic Support - Faculty of Science - Simon Fraser University (sfu.ca)
📅 November 24 | 6 p.m. MT / 5 p.m. PT
Explore direct-entry options in medicine, dentistry, law, veterinary science & more
Learn about admissions, prerequisites, and pathways to bring your qualification back to Canada.
👉 Register Here: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/7817893978888/WN_f5OTqHPoSPOl5r6S6Qjv7Q
📹 Can’t attend live? Register anyway and we’ll send you the recording!
💙 OzTREKK’s application and student support services are completely free!
Curious about studying physiotherapy?
Wondering what it’s like to get into a world-renowned physio program in Australia? Join us for an engaging webinar featuring Samir, a Bond University Doctor of Physiotherapy graduate.
This webinar will cover Samir’s unique journey, from being a Canadian student who studied physiotherapy in Australia and now actively practicing in Cairns. We know you’ll gain valuable insights from his extensive experience.
Physiotherapy Webinar- Oct. 27th: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/9417891507574/WN_lUHwLSc8QHC8mQOfuRhCEA
Considering a career in dentistry?
With the high level of competition for dental programs in Canada, studying in Australia or New Zealand is a fantastic pathway to consider.
Join OzTREKK for an upcoming info session covering everything you need to know about pursuing your dental degree Down Under.
Dentistry Webinar- Oct. 28th: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/6217893976282/WN_eU_KWmThQnCOBhbRyMJWeA
BCRPA Fitness Registration & Student Membership Opportunities
Kinesiology students are able to fast-track certain requirements, making it easier to become part of BCRPA, Canada’s largest body of registered fitness professionals. I’ve attached a document with additional information about the registration process and the benefits of becoming registered with BCRPA.
In addition to this, BCRPA offers free student memberships to anyone enrolled in a full-time post-secondary program in BC. This membership provides students with opportunities to connect with professionals, access resources, and learn about the ideas shaping healthier, more active communities across the province. Student members also receive discounted rates for conferences, events, and e-learning, as well as access to member-only resources, communications, and volunteer opportunities.
One year. $50,000. The Path for Changemakers.
Applications for Cohort 11 of the Pathy Foundation Fellowship are open until November 1st!
This 12-month experiential learning program is rooted in youth leadership and community engagement. Each year, up to 12 Fellows receive:
$50,000 in funding
Comprehensive training and mentorship
The opportunity to lead a self-directed initiative in any field, sector, or community
And more!
Learn more and start your application by visiting the Pathy Foundation Fellowship website.
Research Participants Recruitment
Research Participants Needed: Exploring where Kinesiology and Exercise Science Graduates are Working Now as Qualified Exercise Professionals
We want to learn more about what Kinesiology and Exercise Science graduates from Canadian Universities who work as Qualified Exercise Professionals in Canada do for work and what their roles consist of.
What is involved?
An online survey which will take 10-15 minutes to fill out with questions related to their degree and current role. Before the main survey, a question to determine eligibilty will be administered.
Who can participate?
Individuals who have graduated from a Canadian Undergraduate Kinesiology or Exercise Science Program.
Interested in participating?
Follow the link - https://forms.gle/hHSk1HotHp73Ucn49
Volunteer Opportunity: Birmingham National Wheelchair Tennis Championships
Event: Birmingham National Wheelchair Tennis Tournament November 12-15 2026
Dates: November 12-15
Location: UBC Tennis Centre
Details: A great way for students to get involved in a national-level sport event and learn more about parasport. Roles include court assistance, court setup, first aid, hospitality services, and more. Training provided; shifts are flexible.
Sign-Up Link: https://signup.com/go/PDYGWgJ
Introducing BURN!
The BPK Undergraduate Research Network (BURN) is a student-led initiative connecting BPK students with research opportunities, resources, events, and the broader research community.
Whether you’re curious about research, looking for a lab position, planning an honours project, or already involved in research, BURN is here to help you get connected and make the most of your research experience at SFU.
Follow us on Instagram @BURN.SFU to stay updated on student research highlights, upcoming events, research resources, workshops, and more
Join MINDmatters!
Make a difference to the BPK community. Share your ideas and energy with the MINDMatters Committee and help create an engaged, healthy, and vibrant learning community.
The Indigenous Tutoring and Mentoring Program needs volunteer tutors, mentors, administrators, coders, and blog-writers!
The Indigenous Tutoring & Mentoring Program (ITMP) is recruiting volunteers to join our program! ITMP is a volunteer organization (https://www.sfu.ca/engagement-competition/past-projects/2021/itmp.html) that provides free 1-on-1 Zoom tutoring and mentoring to Indigenous youth (K-12) across British Columbia. It was founded by SFU students to increase educational attainment through friendly, student-focused and culturally-relevant services. Our program is expanding, and we’d love to have you on our team. Indigenous students are especially encouraged to apply, though all applications are welcome!
We are also looking to expand our administration team and student onboarding team. We are especially looking for people with knowledge coding in Javascript for our data team, and coding in HTML and CSS for our Web & IT team (familiarity with Wix is also an asset). Additionally, we are looking for blog writers passionate about writing content for Indigenous youth and coordinators who are able to run projects independently. All roles have a minimum commitment of 2 semesters, and full descriptions of admin roles can be found at: Admin Role Descriptions. Admins have adapted training, limited to the Indigenous Cultural Safety modules.
If you are interested in volunteering with our program in either capacity, please fill out our intake form by September 21 at: https://forms.gle/Qd6GqmCxtn9cKdqMA
If you have any questions, please reach out at indigenoustutoring@gmail.com!
The Canadian Red Cross (CRC) is looking for more volunteers for their HELP (health equipment loan program) team!
Do you want to gain health-care experience, work with other like-minded students and also make a big impact in your community? - If so, the Canadian Red Cross HELP team is the place for you. As a volunteer, you will communicate with healthcare professionals (OT, PT, Doctors etc.) to help get medical equipment to those who cannot afford to buy it, or simply just want to borrow it after things like injuries and surgeries. Scheduling has lots of flexibility, as the CRC recognizes how important education commitments are. Locations include but are not limited to Burnaby and Surrey. There is currently no fixed deadline to apply.
Learn more about the HELP team at REDCROSS.CA or contact Simran (simran.virk@redcross.ca; 236-339-0224).
Fraser Health Crisis Line Recruiting Volunteer!
Are you looking for a volunteer opportunity? Why not start now!
The Fraser Health Crisis Line is recruiting volunteers to provide assistance to people in the region who are experiencing emotional distress. No previous experience is needed as extensive training and ongoing support is provided. If you are interested in learning more about this challenging and rewarding opportunity, the first step is to review the information on our website and then attend a Zoom Information Session. Please go to www.options.bc.ca and click on Get Involved -> I Want to Volunteer -> Crisis Line. Here you will find the dates and Zoom links for the up-coming sessions.
Many volunteers report that their Crisis Line experience was significant in helping them reach their educational and/or career goals, including acceptance into Graduate Programs, Policing, Medical School, E-Comm 911, Social Work, Mental Health and related fields. Volunteers also tell us that they find the Crisis Line to be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, as they are truly making a difference.
Prof. Andrew Blaber was invited to watch the launch of Canadian astronaut Johua Kutryk.
Kutryk is part of commercial crew 13 which launched to the International Space Station on October 1st. During his six months in space, Kutryk will be conducting Canadian Space Agency health research projects including Prof. Blaber's Arospace Physiology Laboratory's study CARDIOBREATH.
Prof. James Wakeling recently published a book titled “Whitewater performance: fundamentals of training theory in canoe slalom”.
It is a collaboration with Dr. Jan Busta from Charles University in Prague.
James helped with the translation of the book into English and editing its biomechanics content. The project was inspired through collaborative research they have done on the biomechanics of canoe slalom on European athletes, and on current work with CanoeKayak Canada.
Lungpacer Medical Nominated for 2026 Prix Galien USA Award for Best Medical Technology
Congratulations to Lungpacer Medical, which has been nominated for the 2026 Prix Galien USA Award for Best Medical Technology. The SFU spinoff company's AeroPace technology was developed by BPK professor Andy Hoffer.
Crew-13 Space Station mission
BPK instructor Andrew Blaber will be in attendance to watch the Crew-13 launch live!
The Crew-13 mission will send Canadian astronaut Joshua Kutryk and fellow crew members to the International Space Station, where they will support scientific research and experiments in space.
Learn more about the mission: Canadian Space Agency – Crew-13
SFU study sheds light on clotting risks for female astronauts
The unexpected discovery of a blood clot in a female astronaut in 2019 has led space agencies around the world to initiate studies to understand this possibly serious medical condition. Dr. Blaber’s Aerospace Laboratory in BPK, received funds from the Canadian Space Agency to participate in a ground-breaking European Space Agency’s Vivaldi study on female responses to simulated microgravity. In their initial study, published in the journal Acta Astronautica (lead author Tiffany Stead, MSc. BPK, 2024), these scientists discovered how blood clots formed in microgravity become stronger and tougher to break down than the clots that form on the ground. You can find more information from SFU News. Dr. Blaber explains these results on the CBC science show Quirks and Quarks. The study and interview also inspired Bob McDonald (Quirks and Quarks host) to write a separate blog post about it.
DISCLAIMER: The Department of BPK is forwarding these opportunities as we receive them, however we strongly encourage you to research and obtain information regarding the reputation of organizations, the terms and conditions of employment or service, as well as to understand your rights and responsibilities. The Department does not endorse any specific individuals, organizations, products, programs or services. If you see any suspicious postings or hiring practices, please notify us immediately at bpk_engage@sfu.ca.