Knowledge Link Fellowship Program
SFU Knowledge Link's formalized training for SFU doctoral students in knowledge synthesis methodologies and hands-on application through a capstone project in collaboration with provincial and national policy makers.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this program, fellows will be able to:
- Differentiate various types of knowledge synthesis and their appropriate applications
- Demonstrate your knowledge synthesis skills through a real-world capstone project
- Communicate the outcomes of your work to diverse knowledge users
- Help build a network of researchers enhancing knowledge synthesis capacity in BC
Key Dates
- Application period: July
- Program start: September
Programming
| Workshop 1: Introduction to knowledge synthesis | Required attendance in-person (Burnaby Campus) |
| Workshop 2: Developing research questions and methodologies | |
| Workshop 3: Data analysis and reporting | |
| Workshop 4: Rapid reviews | |
| Workshop 5: Emerging methodologies in knowledge synthesis | |
| Workshop 6: Knowledge mobilization |
| Capstone project | Virtual/Self-Directed |
| Deliverable 1: Knowldge Link Fellowship Symposium - Attendance and project presentation | |
| Deliverable 2: Final report of capstone project findings for knowledge user partners |
Eligibility
- Be enrolled in a full-time academic PhD program at SFU
- Have completed your program coursework
- Have successfully completed the Research Meets Policy Summer Institute or MobilizeU
- Be available to attend all in-person and virtual training sessions for the duration of the program (listed above)
Disciplinary focus:
We welcome applications from all faculties and programs. However, please note that as this program is delivered in partnership with knowledge user organizations, capstone project assignments will reflect those organizations’ priorities and information needs, as described below. As such, you should not plan for alignment between the capstone project topic and your doctoral research area. Some foundational knowledge and/or experience in one of the following areas is recommended.
Application process
Why apply?
- Financial Support: Each Fellow receives $10,000 in award funding to support participation in the program ($5,000 per term)
- Hands-on Experience: Undertake a capstone project that directly contributes to evidence-informed decision-making
- Expert Training: Gain skills in knowledge synthesis methodologies that are essential for engaging with policy and government stakeholders
- Faculty Mentorship: Learn and engage in 1:1 mentorship while building your own independent research skills
- Professional Growth: Build a network of researchers and professionals in the field, strengthening your future career in research, policy, or public service
What we're looking for:
- Ability to understand and strategically engage with complex issues
- Collaborative approach to integrating multiple perspectives
- Independent critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- Strong written and oral communication abilities
- Ability to commit to fulfilling all program requirements and deliverables during the entirety of the academic year
How to apply
Applications are currently closed. Stay tuned for the next intake summer of 2027.
Required application materials:
- Your CV
- A Letter of Support from your supervisor
- A maximum 2-page statement addressing the following questions:
- Briefly describe your academic and/or research background, highlighting any experience in connecting research to policy and/or practice. What motivates your interest in knowledge synthesis and its role in informing policy?
- This program includes a term of experiential learning with policy makers. How will this experience contribute to your personal, academic, and professional development? How do you envision the skills gained advancing your future career goals in research, policy, public service, or other sectors?
- Describe any anticipated commitments (academic or otherwise) that you expect to take place during the two academic terms of the program (e.g. defenses, exams, conferences, field work, other travel). How do you plan to manage your time and what strategies will you employ to meet the deliverables of the program?
Please merge application materials into a single PDF document.
Program Contact:
Dr. Emily Shantz, Knowledge Synthesis Specialist, emily_shantz@sfu.ca