Volunteering with UHN STEM Pathways

 
Photo - group of six people posing together in matching blue UHN STEM Pathways tshirts (exception: one wears a red Science Rendezvous tshirt) in front of Science Rendezvous backdrop. Backdrop features STEM-related icons (e.g., microscope) and quotes.

Our Volunteers

As a non-profit program, the success of our outreach is highly dependent on our excellent volunteer base. Volunteers are at the heart of everything we do and they truly help enrich the lives of youth in the community. At UHN STEM Pathways, our volunteers are typically graduate students, post-doctoral fellows and scientists from the research branch of the University Health Network. They come from all 6 research institutes and have varying degrees of specialties and interests.

Photo - group of people wearing blue lab coats in lab-environment. Scientist points out image on computer screen to teenaged group.

Why Volunteer?

If you enjoy talking about STEM and interacting with youth, come volunteer for UHN STEM Pathways. Volunteering is a great way to expand on the skillset you have and learn new transferable skills including communication, teaching and leadership! You will also get connected to an amazing network of trainees and individuals in the community. In this process you’ll help youth discover how important STEM is and how it’s applicable to their everyday lives!

Photo - three women in blue UHN STEM Pathways tshirts pass each other items over a blue table covered in lanyards and lab equipment (e.g., beaker, measuring cup). Background features posters of DNA and UHN logo.

What Will You Do?

We are always looking for new volunteers to participate in outreach initiatives such as classroom visits, scientist panels, lab tours, mentorship, hands-on workshops, etc. Volunteers also have the opportunity to attain a leadership role through our Ambassador program. We always love to hear ideas from volunteers on what future outreach projects we should consider and pursue.

Photo - selfie from two women wearing medical masks and blue UHN STEM Pathways tshirts. They appear to be in a classroom setting (drawings are taped around room, chart paper is on easel, cubby in background).

Requirements?

There are no set requirements to become a volunteer. We are happy to have all UHN individuals, regardless of their background and skillset, join the team. We will provide resources, training and any support you may need. In addition, as a volunteer, your commitment is flexible - you can sign up for sessions that work with your schedule. All volunteers that complete three activities/events will receive a certificate indicating active membership.

*Only Certificate-eligible volunteers will be able to get reference letters from our team (please give us at least 3 weeks before your application deadline).

High School Students/non-UHN personnel - Please refer to UHN’s Volunteer Resources department for further information. To volunteer with UHN STEM Pathways, individuals must have completed their secondary school education and be actively working/doing research at UHN.

Sign up to volunteer with UHN STEM Pathways HERE.