health research methods mcmaster

Graduate Studies

Health research methodology.

The program focuses on developing competency and leadership in research methodology that promotes the integration of health relevant disciplinary perspectives to create rigorous and innovative evaluation strategies and frameworks. This is facilitated by an interdisciplinary educational model that draws on faculty from across the faculties of Health Science, Science, and Social Science.

Faculty of Health Sciences

Program Contact

Degree Options

Health research methodology (msc).

A research intensive program with the goal of equipping the graduates with research methods skills that enable them to “push the boundaries of knowledge” relevant to improving clinical practice (including medical education research), strengthening health systems and enhancing population health.

Areas of Research

• Clinical epidemiology
• Health technology assessment

Students who do not wish to declare a field of specialization should enroll in HRM Classic.

Health Research Methodology (PhD)

• Biostatistics

Health Research Methodology (MD/PhD)

Alyssa vito scholarship in cancer research $.

Established in 2022 by Dr. Alyssa Vito, survivor of triple negative breast cancer and MSc/PhD McMaster alumna. To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies, on the recommendation of the Graduate Associate Dean, Faculty of Health Sciences, to a graduate student who conducts cancer research with a component of their activities devoted to leadership, community outreach, and patient engagement. Preference will be given to students pursuing research in breast cancer.

Association of Canadian Universities for Northern Studies (ACUNS) Varied values

Varied values

ACUNS established its scholarship program, the Canadian Northern Studies Trust (CNST) in 1982 to advance knowledge and understanding of Canada’s North. The purpose of the CNST is to develop a cadre of scholars and scientists with northern experience and, at the same time, to enhance the educational opportunities available for northern residents.

For a list of scholarships and funding available, as well as eligibility criteria, award values, application details, and deadlines, visit the ACUNS website.

Autism Scholars Award $$$

Deadline Date:

December 1, 2023

With the support of the Ministry of Training, Colleges, and Universities, a scholar awards program in autism has been established to ensure that Ontario attracts and retains pre-eminent scholars. The community of autism scholars fostered by this awards program will excel, according to internationally accepted standards of scientific excellence, in the creation of new knowledge concerning child autism, and its translation into improved health for children, more effective services and products for children with autism, and increase the province’s capacity in diagnosis and assessment of autism and a strengthened treatment system.

One one-year award at the master’s level and up to two one-year awards at the doctoral level will be made by the COU:

• Master’s Award: $18,000 ($6,000 per term beginning September 2024)
• Doctoral Award: $20,000 ($6,666 per term beginning September 2024)

Brian Haynes Student Travel Award $

Established in 2019 by Dr. Brian Haynes and JoAnne E. Haynes. To be awarded to doctoral students enrolled in the Health Research Methodology program in the Faculty of Health Sciences whose peer-reviewed abstracts have been accepted for oral presentation at a national or international conference. To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies on the recommendation of the Assistant Dean, Health Research Methodology in consultation with an ad-hoc selection committee comprised of members of the Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact.

Canada Graduate Scholarships – Michael Smith Foreign Study Supplements $$

September 21, 2023

The CGS-MSFSS supports high-calibre Canadian graduate students in building global linkages and international networks through the pursuit of exceptional research experiences abroad. By accessing international scientific research and training, CGS-MSFSS recipients will contribute to strengthening the potential for collaboration between Canadian universities and affiliated research institutions and universities, or other research institutions outside of Canada.

Please review eligibility and criteria for more information about this travel award.

If you wish to apply, please contact your department graduate administrator.

Canada-U.S. Fulbright Program

The bi-national program is an educational exchange, with a mandate to enhance mutual understanding between the people of Canada and the people of the United States of America. Available to graduate students, faculty, professionals and independent researchers, successful applicants conduct research, lecture, or enroll in formal academic programs in the United States. Fulbright Canada offers various scholarship awards within this program, with further information on the various award opportunities made available through the Canada-US Fulbright Program website.

For eligibility criteria, award values, application details and deadlines, visit the Fulbright website.

CIBC Graduate Bursaries in Breast Cancer $$

The CIBC Graduate Bursaries in Breast Cancer was established in 2004 by CIBC under the McMaster Student Opportunity Fund II initiative in support of CIBC’s belief that all students should have the opportunity to pursue their educational goals. To be granted first to students enrolled in a graduate program in the Faculty of Health Sciences who demonstrate financial need and are conducting thesis research in the field of breast cancer and alternatively to students who are conducting thesis research in the field of women’s health, obstetrics, gynecology or medical oncology. Preference will be given to full-time graduate students who have demonstrated academic excellence.

CIHR Canada Graduate Scholarship – Doctoral $$$$

October 2, 2023

McMaster internal ResearchNet deadline: October 2, 2023, 11:59 p.m.

Applications are prepared and submitted by students in ResearchNet by the internal deadline set by McMaster. You will not be able to submit your application to ResearchNet until all the required tasks are completed, including the letters from your sponsors.

We encourage you to work closely with your supervisor and department on your application. The application you submit to ResearchNet on October 2 will be the final version that will be sent to CIHR if approved by McMaster.

CIHR Postdoctoral Fellowship $$$$

September 27, 2023

Postdoctoral research opportunities funded through CIHR. E-Approval done through the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs.

Fellowships provide support for highly qualified applicants in all areas of health research at the post-PhD degree or post-health professional degree stages to add to their experience by engaging in health research either in Canada or abroad.

Up to $60,000 per annum for up to five years.

Eligibility

At the time of application, the Nominated Principal Applicant must be/have:

• a trainee, with an identified primary supervisor,
• commit 75% of your time in the research fellowship role to the proposal,
• hold or be completing a PhD degree or a regulated health professional degree by the last possible date to take up the fellowship.

General application process

Information and instructions for this year’s competition are available on SharePoint.

Applications are prepared and submitted by individuals on ResearchNet by the internal deadline set by McMaster . Please see the ResearchNet website for information on eligibility requirements, guidelines, how to apply, and information regarding the review process and evaluation.

McMaster Internal RESEARCHNET deadline: 12 p.m. EST, Wednesday, September 27, 2023

Review and Submission

Please note that applications will be returned to applicants for correction or review and final approval before they are submitted to CIHR. It is the applicant’s responsibility to resubmit their application after the internal deadline and before the McMaster final deadline for submission.

It is important to note that it is the applicant’s sole responsibility to follow up with his/her sponsors to ensure that the assessments are submitted online by their sponsors no later than 12 p.m., Monday, September 25, 2023.

McMaster Internal Final Deadline for Submission: 12 p.m., Wednesday, October 4, 2023

• CIHR deadline: October 5, 2023
• Anticipated notice of decision: April 30, 2023
• Funding start date: April 1, 2024

For questions on CIHR funding guidelines, how to apply, contact:

• Email: [email protected]
• Telephone: 613-954-1968
• Toll-Free: 1-888-603-4178

For ResearchNet technical support contact:

• Email: [email protected]
• Telephone: 613-941-9080

This competition is being managed by the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs in the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants are encouraged to contact Catherine Maybrey, coordinator of postdoctoral affairs and research training, at [email protected] for questions regarding deadlines and submissions.

Clarification of Signature Pages

• Only supervisor(s) signatures are required. Printed names should always accompany signatures.
• No institution signatures are required on the pages at the time of application, as McMaster University’s submission on your behalf acts as the institution/institution paid signature.

Scan and upload the signed signature pages, including the routing slip, as one PDF (unprotected and not exceeding 30 MB), in the Print/Upload Signature Pages task in ResearchNet prior to submitting the application

CIHR Strategic Master’s Award $$$

December 14, 2023

The CIHR Strategic Master’s Award program provides financial support to scholars who are engaged in an eligible master’s program in Canada (refer to Eligibility) and that are relevant to specific CIHR priority research areas. This support allows these scholars to concentrate on their studies in their chosen fields.

The CIHR Strategic Master’s Award program is supported by CIHR Institutes and Initiatives with specific priority areas and is administered by CIHR.

CIHR, NSERC and SSHRC Canada Graduate Scholarships – Master’s (CGS-M) $$$

The CGS M Awards Program supports students in all research disciplines and is administered jointly by Canada’s three federal granting agencies: the Canadian Institutes for Health Research (CIHR), the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC). The selection process and post-award administration are carried out at the university level, under the guidance of the three agencies.

For a recorded information session about the Fall 2023 application process, click on the Learn More button.

CSA Group Graduate Scholarship $$

March 31, 2024

The purpose of the CSA Group Graduate Scholarship is to support graduate students in the pursuit of knowledge generation related to standards. Full-time graduate students at the Masters level studying at a publicly funded, accredited Canadian university are eligible to apply.

The research can be conducted in any field (e.g. engineering, social sciences, health sciences) and must include standards as a component of the research. The topic does not need to be related to an area in which CSA Group already has standards. The research may investigate aspects of an existing standard or may explore an area for future standards development.

Dr. J. A. Campbell Young Investigator Award $$

April 30, 2023

The Dr. J. A. Campbell Young Investigator Award of $5,000 for any kind of research into celiac disease and / or gluten sensitivity is available to students and those who have recently completed degrees.

Eligibility criteria, application details and deadlines available on the Canadian Celiac Association website.

Dr. John Thomas Memorial Bursary $

Dr. John Thomas Memorial Bursary was established in 1996 in memory of Dr. John Thomas by family, friends and colleagues. The bursary fund will assist graduate students enrolled in the department of philosophy or the Faculty of Health Sciences who demonstrate financial need. To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies with preference given to students studying medical or applied ethics.

E.B. Eastburn Fellowship $$$$

March 3, 2025

Under the terms of a bequest to Hamilton Community Foundation by the late Eugene B. Eastburn, a two-year Fellowship will be awarded for full-time postdoctoral studies in engineering or sciences (Natural or Physical sciences, including Health Sciences).

The fellowship will be awarded for 24 months for a total value of $90,000.

Note: The 2025 competition will be announced in late fall 2024.

Fulbright canada student awards $ – $$$.

November 15, 2023

Traditional Fulbright Canada Student awards are intended for Canadian citizens who are graduate students, prospective graduate students, or promising young professionals who wish to study and/or conduct research in the United States. Awards may be held at any university, research centre, think tank, or government agency in the United States.

For eligibility criteria, award values, application details and deadlines, visit the Fulbright Canada website.

GSA Travel Award $

The GSA Travel Assistance Grants are funded from the proceeds of the Graduate Students Association Development Fund, which receives contributions from graduate students and the University. The GSA Travel Assistance Grants fund is administered through the School of Graduate Studies. The GSA Travel Assistance Grants are designed to enable graduate students to travel to undertake research or present at conferences relevant to their field of study. There are a fluctuating number of awards available each semester.

The successful recipients will be determined randomly by selecting one recipient from each faculty (Health Sciences, Engineering, Science, Humanities, Social Sciences, and Business) and the balance of the awards left in a given period will be randomly selected from a list of the remaining applicants from all faculties combined.

Application dates:

• Fall competition for September to December travel: Opens September 1, 2023 and closes October 2, 2023
• Winter competition for January to April travel: Opens January 2, 2024 and closes February 5, 2024
• Summer competition for May to August travel: Opens May 1, 2024 and closes June 3, 2024

H.G. Hilton Master’s Scholarship $$

The H.G. Hilton Master’s Scholarships were established by the income from a bequest in the estate of Hugh G. Hilton, at one time Chief Executive Officer of Stelco and member of the McMaster Board of Governors support a Master’s scholarship. The scholarship is tenable for one year, and is awarded annually to incoming Canadian citizens, permanent residents or, international students from departments which offer full-time Master’s graduate studies. Priority will be given to students intending research in Canadian industry or industrial problems. Other things being equal, preference will be given to deserving children of employees or former employees of Stelco Ltd.

Harvey E. Longboat Graduate Scholarship $$-$$$

March 14, 2024

The Harvey E. Longboat Graduate Scholarship for First Nation, Inuit, and Métis Students was established in 2009 in honour of Harvey E. Longboat, and in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to McMaster University and to the broader community. The School of Graduate Studies, in consultation with the Indigenous Studies program and the Indigenous Education Council, will award the scholarship annually to a First Nation, Inuit, or Métis student(s) who has demonstrated high academic achievement and exceptional promise.

The scholarship is tenable for one year, although previous award winners may re-apply.

Incoming students are eligible to apply.

Health Research Postdoctoral Opportunities

A comprehensive list of funding sources and agencies for postdoctoral fellows in the Faculty of Health Sciences and those doing health-related research can be found on the Health Sciences website.

Health Sciences Graduate Scholarship for Indigenous Scholars $$

All incoming Indigenous graduate students who are studying in a graduate program located within the Faculty of Health Sciences, are eligible to apply for this award.

Applicants who are completing a FIAP application for a facilitated graduate program, will be automatically considered for this award.

For full eligibility criteria, application details and deadlines, visit the Faculty of Health Sciences website. (Link below.)

Iranian Student Memorial Scholarship $

Established in honour of McMaster Faculty of Engineering PhD students Iman Aghabali and Mehdi Eshaghian, and a former Faculty of Health Science Post-Doctoral Fellow, who lost their lives on the downing of Ukrainian International Airlines Flight PS752. To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies, on the recommendation of the Associate Deans responsible for graduate studies, to international graduate students from Iran who demonstrate academic excellence.

John Charles Polanyi Prize $$$

In honour of the achievement of John Charles Polanyi, recipient of the 1986 Nobel Prize in Chemistry, the Government of the Province of Ontario has established a fund to provide annually up to five prizes to outstanding researchers in the early stages of their career who are continuing to postdoctoral studies or have recently started a faculty appointment at an Ontario university.

Lyle Makosky Values and Ethics in Sport Fund $

April 30, 2024

This award is through the True Sport Foundation of Canada. Open to applicants who are

• high-performance athletes enrolled at a Canadian university, community college or other post-secondary educational institution.
• post-secondary students active in sport at a non-high-performance level.
• sport practitioners active/working in sport as an official, administrator or high-performance coach.
• educators working in a sport, sports sciences, sport management/administration or other applicable discipline.

All questions should be directed to the True Sport Foundation of Canada.

Visit their website for all details and contact information.

MacDATA Graduate Fellowship $$

March 15, 2021

The advent of large collection of data and ensuing development in data analysis techniques has made collaboration between data scientists and content experts necessary for cutting-edge research. Furthermore, there is a need for trainees to be exposed to both aspects of such research, namely for data science trainees to learn about real life practical projects and for content expert trainees to gain experience in data analysis and management. The aims of the MacDATA Graduate Fellowship Program are:

• To provide trainees with an opportunity to acquire practical and theoretical skills in data science.
• To facilitate exchange of expertise and knowledge in data science across faculties.

Mackenzie King Memorial Scholarships $$-$$$

February 1, 2024

The Mackenzie King Scholarships were set up under the will of the Rt. Hon. W.L. Mackenzie King (1874-1950), who was Prime Minister of Canada 1921-26, 1926-30, and 1935-48.

Two types of the Mackenzie King Scholarship are available to graduates of Canadian universities: the Open Scholarship and the Travelling Scholarship . Both are to support graduate study.

Manulife Life Lessons Scholarship Program $$

March 31, 2023

Manulife has introduced the first Life Lessons Scholarship Program in Canada, for students who’ve experienced the death of a parent or guardian with little to no life insurance. The Scholarship Program helps combat the financial burden of paying for post-secondary education during an emotional time and recognizes the perseverance that so many youth show in such adversity.

The next application call for this scholarship opens on February 1, 2024. Visit the Manulife website for details on that date.

Maple Leaf Centre for Food Security $$$

February 23, 2024

Four scholarships open to master’s and PhD students who are conducting research on determinants, impacts, and policy or program interventions into food insecurity in Canada.

Visit Maple Leaf Centre for Food Insecurity to learn more and apply.

Questions can be directed to [email protected] .

McMaster Graduate General Bursary $

What is a bursary.

A bursary is based solely on financial need. In most cases, information from your OSAP application is used to determine your financial need (some students who don’t receive OSAP can still apply for a bursary).

The McMaster Graduate General Bursary Program application opens mid-August in AwardSpring. Funding is paid out in mid-February.

Who can apply?

Graduate students who demonstrate financial need can apply for the McMaster Graduate General Bursary Program.

Please note: The McMaster Graduate General Bursary Program is not open to international students enrolled in graduate studies, MBA, medicine or physician assistant programs.

Bursary eligibility requirements:

• Be enrolled at McMaster
• Submit a completed application by the bursary deadline
• OSAP students who receive an income update request must complete it by the income update deadline
• Continue to demonstrate financial need throughout the study period
• Indigenous students
• students with OSAP government aid restrictions include:
• academic progress restriction
• income verification restriction
• provincial and/or federal default restriction
• credit check restriction
• students with a disability taking a reduced course load
• students with out-of-province student aid
• part-time students
• students receiving social assistance

McMaster Institute for Research on Aging (MIRA) Postdoctoral Fellowship $$$$

July 15, 2020

Prospective postdoctoral fellows are invited to submit a research plan that focuses on interdisciplinary, impact-driven approaches in the study of optimal aging through one or more of the following research areas:

• the impact of exercise on mobility;
• the interrelationship between psychological function and social function;
• causes and consequences of multimorbidity, frailty, and polypharmacy;
• the role of caregiving, equity, economics and transportation in optimal aging;
• the understanding of the biological mechanisms of diseases of aging;
• evaluating approaches to knowledge translation to improve optimal aging; and
• the use of technology to promote optimal aging and aging in place.

The applicant and principal supervisor are expected to involve at least two other researchers from two different McMaster faculties (outside of the principal supervisor’s faculty) as mentors in the development of an interdisciplinary research plan.

Michael G. DeGroote Fellowship Awards $$$$

November 1, 2019

The DeGroote Fellowship Awards are offered in TWO categories:

• The Michael G. DeGroote Fellowship Award in Basic Biomedical Science. Candidates conducting basic science research will be eligible for the Basic Biomedical Science Fellowship Award
• The Michael G. DeGroote Fellowship Award in Clinical Research. Candidates pursuing clinical research will be eligible for the Clinical Research Fellowship Award.

For eligibility criteria, award values, application details and deadlines, visit the DeGroote Fellowship Awards web page.

Michael Kiley Graduate Scholarship in Antibiotic Resistance $

Established in 2017 by the family of Michael Kiley. To be awarded to a graduate student associated with the Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research who has made a significant contribution to antibiotic infection research through a presentation of their research at an annual trainee research symposium. To be awarded annually by the School of Graduate Studies on the recommendation of the executive committee of the Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research.

Mildred Gulliver Graduate Scholarship in Infectious Diseases $

The Mildred Gulliver Graduate Scholarship in Infectious Diseases was established in 2009 by the estate of Mildred Kathleen Hodgson Gulliver. To be award to a graduate student connected to the Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research who has made a significant contribution to anti-infection research through a presentation of their research. Winners will present at an annual trainee research symposium. The scholarship is non-renewable, and awarded by the School of Graduate Studies on the recommendation of the Executive Committee of the Michael G. DeGroote Institute for Infectious Disease Research.

MIRA and Labarge Scholarships in Aging Research $$$

February 28, 2002

The MIRA and Labarge Scholarship program offers awards at the master’s and PhD level in two distinct streams. The Labarge Mobility Scholarship supports applicants whose research on aging includes a focus on mobility. The MIRA Scholarship in Aging Research supports interdisciplinary aging research in one of MIRA’s identified areas of focus.

The scholarships are open to master’s students beginning a new McMaster graduate degree in the 2022/2023 school year and PhD students entering year one or two of their studies. Interested candidates must develop and submit a research proposal in collaboration with a MIRA supervisor and an interdisciplinary mentor from outside the primary supervisor’s Faculty. MIRA requires confirmation that the supervisor and/or program will commit to matching the minimum level of support for the recipient for the duration of the graduate degree. See call for proposals and application form for more information.

MIRA Graduate Student Travel Awards $

March 15, 2020

The McMaster Institute for Research on Aging funds up to 10 graduate student travel awards per year – five in each round – valued at $500 each for students working with MIRA researchers.  Graduate students travelling to an academic conference to present an accepted abstract in aging research are eligible for up to $500 in travel funding.

For details about this and other funding opportunities, visit MIRA .

Deadlines for 2020: March 15 and September 15

MTEK Sciences Scholarship $

Established by Dr. Edward Mills, Ph.D., Health Sciences (Class of ’06) and Dr. Kristian Thorlund, Ph.D., Health Sciences (Class of ’11). To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies, upon the recommendation of the Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact, to full time master’s or doctoral students in the Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact who are studying innovative clinical trial design. Preference will be given to students conducting clinical trials that will benefit low income countries.

MURA Academic Scholarship

Established in 2020 the McMaster University Retirees Association (MURA). To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies to a graduate student researching technological advances related to seniors, and who demonstrates academic excellence.

OGS for Indigenous Graduate Students $$$

Two OGS-I scholarships are awarded to Indigenous graduate students at McMaster University who face significant financial hardship, with particular priority given to women with family responsibilities.

This criteria has been established in consultation with the Indigenous Education Council (IEC) and is adjudicated by a committee chaired through the Indigenous Studies Program.

Ontario Graduate Fellowships $$$

Ontario Graduate Fellowships (OGF) provide funding to full-time students in graduate studies at the masters and doctoral level. It’s a merit-based scholarship for students with an A- or above.

Value: $12,000 ($4,000 per term)

Duration: 1 year

Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) and Queen Elizabeth II Graduate Scholarships in Science and Technology (QEII-GSST) $$$

The Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) and The Queen Elizabeth II Graduate Scholarship in Science and Technology (QEII-GSST) programs provide funding to full-time students at the master’s and doctoral levels. They are merit-based scholarships for students with an A- or above average.

Ontario Graduate Scholarship – International $$$

The Ontario Graduate Scholarship for International Students is by nomination only. Applicants to this award must contact their department for application instructions

Ontario Women’s Health Scholars Award $$$$

Funded by the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care, a scholar awards program in women’s health has been established to ensure that Ontario attracts and retains pre-eminent women’s health scholars.

The community of women’s health scholars fostered by this awards program will excel, according to internationally accepted standards of scientific excellence, in the creation of new knowledge about women’s health and its translation into improved health for women, more effective health services and products for women, and a strengthened health care system.

Rainbow Fund $

To be granted to graduate students enrolled in any program who identify as 2SLGBTQIA+ students and demonstrate financial need.

Schlumberger Foundation Faculty of the Future Value varies

Value varies

This fellow is awarded to female students who are citizens of a developing country or emerging economy. Applicants should be preparing for doctoral or postdoctoral research in the in the physical sciences, engineering, technology and related disciplines.

Deadline is usually during the Fall months. For all details – eligibility, value, deadlines, etc. – go to the Schlumberger Foundation website.

Senior Women Academic Administrators of Canada Graduate Student Award of Merit $$

At least three awards, each in the amount of $4000, will be awarded annually to the women graduate students who have demonstrated outstanding leadership in the university or general community while maintaining exemplary academic records.

Women registered in master’s or PhD programs within a designated region. Regions and number of awards rotate each year. SWAAC has designated Ontario as the region for this 2023 competition. There are five awards available for this competition. Each university may nominate one person for the award.

Read about McMaster PhD student Liza-Anastasia DiCecco, who received the 2023 SWAAC Award of Merit .

The Barkleys of Avonmore Scholarship $

The Barkley’s of Avonmore Scholarship was established in 1977 through the generosity of Fred Barkley to assist a student from a developing country to pursue advanced studies at McMaster University.  Each year the Dean of Graduate Studies will identify a worthy graduate student from one of the developing countries to receive the award.

The CHEPA Doctoral Research Scholarship $

Established in 2022 by David Feeny and George Torrance, founding members of the Centre for Health Economics and Policy Analysis (CHEPA). To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies to doctoral students enrolled in any program, who are conducting research under the supervision of faculty members belonging to CHEPA and who demonstrate academic and research excellence. The scholarship will support PhD students who have successfully completed their comprehensive examinations. Preference will be given to students with research interests that include health-related quality of life, health technology assessment, health economics, health services research, or health policy.

The David L. Sackett Scholarship $$

Established in 2010 by the Department of Health Research Methods, Evicence and Impacts, in honour of Dr. Sackett’s leadership in the fields of clinical epidemiology and evidence-based medicine. To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies, on the recommendation of the Associate Dean of Graduate Studies (Health Sciences), to doctoral students in the Faculty of Health Sciences who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement. Preference will be given to students enrolled in the Health Research Methodology program.

The Diane and Colin Wood Bursary in Respiratory Health $$

The Diane and Colin Wood Bursary in Respiratory Health was established in 2008 by Diane Wood and Colin Wood, BComm (Class of ’78). To be granted by the School of Graduate Studies, on the recommendation of the director of the Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health, to a graduate student who demonstrates financial need and is conducting research in the area of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Preference will be given to students studying emphysema.

The Doris Noftall Award in Food Allergy Research $$

To be awarded to a graduate student in the Faculty of Health Sciences who has demonstrated an interest in the area of food allergy research. To be awarded annually by the School of Graduate Studies on the recommendation of Dr. Manel Jordana and Dr. Susan Waserman, until such time that they retire or their faculty appointments end. Once both Dr. Jordana and Dr. Waserman’s faculty appointments end, responsibility for recommendations will transfer to the lead faculty in the area of food allergy research within the McMaster Immunology Research Centre.

The Dr. Colin Webber Graduate Scholarship $$

Established in 2013 to honour the memory of Dr. Colin Webber, McMaster University professor, physicist, radiation safety expert, teacher, mentor, and leader in the field of bone research. To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies to master’s or doctoral students. Preference will be given to students who demonstrate interest in bone research.

Value: Minimum $1,600

The Dr. Jordan Page Harshman Bursary $

The Dr. Jordan Page Harsham Bursary was established in 2011 by the Harshman Fellowships Society to honour Dr. Jordon Page Harshman, past president of the society. To be awarded annually by the School of Graduate Studies, based on the recommendation of the Associate Dean, Health Sciences (Graduate), to a graduate student in the Faculty of Health Sciences who is engaged in medical research and who demonstrates financial need as well as good citizenship, good social responsibility, and leadership in society. Preference will be given to students in the following three areas in descending order: The Michael G. DeGroote institute for Infectious Disease Research, the Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute and the department of clinical epidemiology and biostatistics. Recipients will be provided with a certificate from the Faculty of Health Sciences detailing the purpose and history of this award at McMaster University. Students who are recipients of an Ontario Graduate Scholarship are not eligible for this Bursary.

The E.B. Ryan Scholarship $

The E.B. Ryan Scholarship was established in 1997 using funds raised by a performance of the play Letter from Wingfield Farm, this scholarship is to be awarded to in-course graduate students from the faculties of Social Sciences and Health Sciences conducting research on aging. This award, valued at a maximum of $2,000, is awarded by the School of Graduate Studies on the recommendation of a committee comprised of at least the director and the co-ordinator of the Office of Gerontological Studies.

The Edna Howard Bursary $

Established in 2022 by the family of Edna Howard, this bursary honours the support Edna offered graduate students through her work as a cook at The Phoenix Bar and Grill, owned and operated by the Graduate Students Association. Her food warmed the hearts of the McMaster campus community for many years until her retirement. To be granted by the School of Graduate Studies to full-time students in any program who demonstrate financial need.

The EJ Irvine Annual Graduate Student Award $

The EJ Irvine Annual Graduate Student Award Established in 2022 by the Estate of Daniel Connelly Irvine in memory of the late Dr. Elizabeth Irvine, MSc. (Class of ’86). To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies on the recommendation of the Director of the Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute and the Director, Division of Gastroenterology in the Department of Medicine. To be awarded to graduate students who demonstrate the best progress in research after year 1 in the Farncombe Family Digestive Health Research Institute.

The Eva Eugenia Lillian Cope Research Scholarship $$$$

The Eva Eugenia Lillian Cope Research Scholarship was established in 2006. To be used for research on allergies and allergic related diseases in the Faculty of Health Sciences, Centre for Gene Therapeutics, Division of Respiratory Diseases and Allergy.

The Fergal P. Mills Graduate Bursary in Health Economics $

Established in 2023 by Dr. Edward Mills, in loving memory of his brother Mr. Fergal P. Mills. To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies to graduate students enrolled in the Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact who demonstrate financial need and are conducting research in Health Economics.

The Graduate Students Association Bursary $

The Graduate Students Association Bursary was established in 1999 by the Graduate Students Association at McMaster University under the McMaster Student Opportunity Fund initiative. To be granted to a full-time or part-time graduate student in one of the following faculties: Engineering, Health Sciences, and Humanities, Science, Social Sciences, or the PhD program in Business. The bursary will be awarded annually by the School of Graduate Studies on the recommendation of the Graduate Students Association.

The H. Vincent Elliott Memorial Travel Bursary $

The H.Vincent Elliott Memorial Travel Bursary was established in 2010 by Dr. Susan J.Elliott (MA `97 and PhD`92), esteemed former Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, professor of Geography and Earth Sciences, and senior research fellow at the United Nations Institute on Water (UNU-IWEH), Environment and Health, in memory of her father, H.Vincent Elliott. To be granted by the School of Graduate Studies on the recommendation on the program director of ‘Water Without Borders’ to students registered in a Master’s or PhD program will be given to students in financial need.

The Howard P. Whidden Graduate Scholarship $$

The Howard P. Whidden Graduate Scholarship was established in 1987, and is open to non-Canadian students from countries of the British Commonwealth. This prestigious award is open to students who qualify for admission into any graduate program that extends to the doctorate, although the student’s initial registration may be at the Master’s level. The award is once renewable contingent upon satisfactory academic performance. It will be awarded at the discretion of the School of Graduate Studies.

The James F. Harvey and Helen S. Harvey Travel Scholarships $

Established in 1995 with funds from the estate of Helen S. Harvey.  James F. Harvey was a member of the first McMaster graduating class in Hamilton in 1935.  This travel scholarship will enable students to engage in research requiring travel.  To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies to graduate students who demonstrate academic excellence.

The Jan’s Graduate Scholarship In Stem Cell Research $$$-$$$$

Established in 2012 by the John and Ellie Voortman Charitable Foundation in loving memory of Jan VanBarneveld. To be awarded to a masters or PhD student connected to the McMaster Stem Cell and Cancer Research Institute (SCC-RI) who exemplifies excellence in their research. To be awarded annually by the School of Graduate Studies on the recommendation of the director of SCC-RI.

The Lambda Scholarship Foundation Canada Graduate Award

Established in 2022 by the Lambda Scholarship Foundation Canada. To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies to a graduate student who is currently enrolled in their first year of any program who identifies as a member of the queer, trans community and is Black, racialized, or Indigenous.

The Late Fergus Mills Scholarship $

Established in 2008 by Dr. Edward Mills in honour of his father, Fergus Mills. To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies, on the recommendation of the assistant dean of Health Research Methodology, to a student enrolled in a graduate program in Health Sciences who is committed to research which will help people in a developing country. Preference to be given to a student with an academic or research background related to Africa with further preference given to a student enrolled in the Health Research Methodology program.

The Lorne F. Lambier, Q.C., Scholarship $

The Lorne F. Lambier, QC Scholarship was established in 1984. The scholarship is tenable for one year. The scholarship is awarded annually to current Canadian citizens, permanent residents or international students registered in a master’s or doctoral graduate program in Faculties of Health Science and Science whose research is directed toward the understanding and/or cure of cancer.

The Louis Minden Scholarship in Health Sciences $$

Established in 1995 with funds from the estate of Mr. Louis Minden. To be awarded to a graduate student in the Faculty of Health Sciences by the School of Graduate Studies on the recommendation of the Graduate Associate Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences. This award is once renewable, and preference will be given to a graduate student pursuing research in preventative medicine.

The Mary Ecclestone Nutrtion Scholarship Award $$

Established in 2019 to promote scholarship and graduate training in the field of pediatric nutrition. To be awarded by the School of Graduate Studies, upon the recommendation of a selection committee in the Department of Pediatrics, chaired by the Chair of the Department of Pediatrics, to full time master’s or doctoral students in the Department of Pediatrics who are studying and/or conducting research in pediatric nutrition.

The McMaster Immunology Research Centre Faculty Scholarship $

Established in 2011 by faculty members within the McMaster Immunology Research Centre to support graduate students. To be awarded annually by the School of Graduate Studies, to an outstanding full time M.Sc. or Ph.D. candidate. First preference will be given to a candidate supervised by a graduate faculty supervisor from the McMaster Immunology Research Centre. Second preference will be given to an applicant in the infection and immunity field.      

The Myra Baillie Academic Grant $

Established in 2005 by the Surgical Associates in memory of Myra Baillie. To be granted to a graduate student in any degree program who attains and “A” average and demonstrates financial need. Preference will be given to a female graduate student.

Award Value: 2 awards of $1,000 each

The School of Graduate Studies Grant in Aid for Research Travel $-$$

March 8, 2024

The SGS Grant is intended to be a grant in aid of research; students should not expect the grants to cover the full cost of travel or field work.

The School of Graduate Studies (SGS) Grant is not intended for conference or course work travel .

It is not meant to replace sources of funding already available from the tri-agencies (CIHR, NSERC, and SSHRC), other external granting sources, or internal scholarships and bursaries.

It is not intended to fund the research itself, but the travel to do the research.

Application Date

The application will open in Mosaic on January 8, 2024, and close on March 8, 2024.

The W.E. Rawls Memorial Scholarship $

Established in 1990 by family and friends to honour the valuable  contribution of Dr. Rawls made to cancer research; as Professor in the  Faculty of Health Sciences, founder and coordinator of the McMaster  Research Group, Director of the Molecular Virology and Immunology Programme  and Past President of the National Cancer Institute. Eligible nominees are  students, regardless of departmental affiliation, currently supervised by a graduate faculty member of the Molecular Virology and Immunology Research  program (MVIP).  The award will be made by the School of Graduate Studies on the recommendation of the Chair of the Medical Sciences Graduate  Program.  The selection committee will include the Chair of the Molecular  Immunology, Virology and Inflammation Program Education Committee.

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship-Doctoral $$$$

September 6, 2023

The Vanier CGS program aims to attract and retain world-class doctoral students to establish Canada as a global centre of excellence in research and higher learning. Vanier Scholars demonstrate both leadership skills and a high standard of scholarly achievement in graduate studies in the social sciences and humanities, natural sciences and/or engineering and health.

It is valued at $50,000 per year for three years during doctoral studies.

Canadian Citizens, Permanent Residents of Canada, and foreign citizens are eligible to apply for this scholarship.

Wilson Leadership Scholar Award $$-$$$

March 28, 2022

The Wilson Leader Scholarship Award for graduate students is different. Valued at $12,000 in direct funding and up to $2,000 for experiential funding, it’s a leadership development and career launcher program that builds on your studies. It involves about 15 hours/month, including time for synchronous group events between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. ET.

Awarded to up to three graduate students annually.

Yates Scholarship $

The Yates Scholarship Fund (up to $500) was established in 1963 by the bequest of William Henry Yates. This fund support upper-level doctoral students with research activities and conference travel when a paper is being delivered. Applicants must have completed their comprehensive exam.

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Continuing Education

Fundamentals of health research methodology.

Gain the skills to conduct research, interpret findings and enhance healthcare

Fundamentals of Health Research Methodology Program

Complete the Fundamentals of Health Research Methodology program and earn a microcredential

Upon successfully completing this program, you will receive a microcredential recognizing your learning achievement. Complete with details of the skills and specialized knowledge you have acquired, the microcredential is digitally shareable, making it easy to add to your resume, LinkedIn profile and to share with current or prospective employers.

Grow your knowledge in health research methodology

Improve your knowledge of health research methodology. Acquire the skills necessary to successfully initiate, carry out, and complete a research study.

• Online non-credit course, affiliated with the McMaster University Faculty of Health Sciences (Department of Anesthesia)
• Gain the knowledge and skills you need to effectively conduct research studies in your field
• Earn a Certificate of Completion in a microcredential format in just 10 weeks

Information Box Group

Program highlights Learn More

• Now offered as a microcredential
• Convenient online course
• Taught by experienced researchers

Fundamentals of Health Research Methodology program features:

• Earn a Certificate of Completion
• Convenient online platform
• Learn from experienced researchers and instructors
• Connect with health professionals across various disciplines

What you'll learn Learn More

• Essential methodology for clinical trials
• Fundamentals of health research design, research ethics, measurement and statistics
• How to develop and write a research proposal

Through our Fundamentals of Health Research Methodology program, you’ll learn to:

• Distinguish the main types of health research design to select the most appropriate one for a research project
• Explain the hierarchy of evidence based on a study design and its implications in health research
• Critically appraise health research literature for validity and application of research outcomes
• Interpret basic statistical findings reported in clinical studies
• Formulate an answerable question using the “Participants, Interventions, Comparisons, Outcomes” (PICO) framework
• Develop a research proposal using health methods and approaches
• Identify strategies of knowledge translation, including writing and publishing manuscripts

Learn more about the Fundamentals of Health Research Methodology program

Who should take this program.

• Medical students
• Nursing and health students
• Research Coordinators
• Research Assistants
• Any health professional who requires a solid foundation in health research methodology in order to successfully initiate, carry out and complete a research study

What are the career opportunities?

Earning a Certificate of Completion in Fundamentals of Health Research Methodology could lead to a wide range of rewarding careers including:

• Research Associate
• Research Assistant
• Research Project Coordinator
• Clinical Research Assistant
• Clinical Research Coordinator
• Clinical Trial Coordinator

Academic Learning Outcomes

• Distinguish the main types of health research design to select the most appropriate design for a research project
• Formulate an answerable question using the “Participants, Interventions, Comparisons, Outcomes” (PICO) framework
• Develop a research proposal using health research methods and approaches

What our recent graduates say

I wanted to reinvent myself and change my career path and I was able to do that.

Krystal Health and Social Service Skill Development graduate

I wanted to be able to reinvent myself and change my career path and I was able to do that because of McMaster Continuing Education. Being a nurse, there are so many different avenues of nursing that I can try new things and continue to learn. The instructors were really understanding. When you’re working full-time, having someone that will promptly answer your questions and make time for you when you need it, they made it really easy.

Health and Social Service Skill Development graduate

Other programs you may be interested in

Health and wellness coaching program, health analytics program, the science of cannabis program, fundamentals of health research methodology certificate of completion, certificate of completion in fundamentals of health research methodology, earn a certificate of completion in health research methodology with mcmaster continuing education.

Explore the requirements below and register today!

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Earn your Certificate of Completion by completing the 10-week course listed below.

Courses (complete 1)

Hth 501 fundamentals of health research methodology, fundamentals of health research methodology schedule.

This schedule table displays courses planned to be offered this year and is a guide to planning your courses for the academic year. Please note: Spring term registration opens mid-March and Fall/Winter term registration opens mid-July. 

For more information about our learning formats and to choose a format that works best for you, please visit our Learning Formats page. All times listed below are in the Eastern Time Zone (ET).

The schedule table is subject to change. Please visit the course pages to browse classes currently available for registration and the latest cost information.

Admission Requirements

This program is open enrolment, which means there is no formal application or admission procedure. To enrol in a course, simply register online. Our courses can be taken as part of a program or individually.

To enrol in McMaster Continuing Education programs, you must:

• Have an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent
• Be a mature student as defined in the Undergraduate Calendar of McMaster University or
• Be deemed an exceptional case

To ensure you are successful in your online courses, you are required to have knowledge and skills with general computer applications, such as keyboarding, file management, video conferencing and word processing.

Language Requirements

If your first language is not English, you must meet the  University’s English language proficiency requirements . Completion of TOEFL exam with a minimum acceptable score of 20 on each of the four components (reading, writing, speaking and listening), valid for 2 years.

Expandable List

How to register for our courses and programs.

• Visit continuing.mcmaster.ca/programs  to find your program of choice
• Click on each tab on the program page to learn about credential options and requirements, schedule and fees, and a list of all courses in the program
• Select a course and then select an available offering, noting important information such as cost, delivery format , and start/end dates; then click ‘add to cart’
• Once you have added your courses, click the shopping cart icon at the top right-hand corner of the page (bottom of the browser screen on mobile)
• Review your cart and, once you’re ready to proceed with enrolment, click ‘proceed to checkout’
• As the next step, you will be redirected to Mosaic – McMaster’s Administrative Information and Enrolment system
• Once you are in Mosaic, select ‘new to McMaster’ or log in with your existing MacID and password (if applicable)
• Complete all required fields and select a program of study when prompted (i.e., a specific program or open studies for standalone courses)
• Finally, payment is required in full to secure a spot in your course(s)

A payment receipt email will be issued to you immediately after registering, and a course confirmation email will be sent to you overnight. Within approximately 24 hours of registering, you will also receive an important email containing credentials used to activate your MacID, which you must do before you can access courses in Avenue to Learn. Please review our  Getting Started  page to learn more about the next steps for beginning your studies after registration, and our Help Centre for our Refund Policy and other frequently asked questions. Please note that on average, each course requires 6-8 hours of study per week, per course (sometimes more) and some courses may have listed prerequisites. Please plan your schedule accordingly. Most students take 1-2 courses per term across a few different terms and a full-time equivalent course load is typically 3-4 courses per term.

For more information and a walkthrough on how to register, please check out this video.

Payment Options

• Payment must be made in full at the time of enrolment
• Online credit card or debit payments are preferred
• Accepted credit cards: Visa, MasterCard and American Express
• Accepted debit cards: Visa Debit and Debit Mastercard
• Google Pay is available for faster checkout
• Payments can be made from a Canadian Financial Institution and can take 2 to 4 business days to arrive in your McMaster student account. Once payment has arrived, you can register for your course. Please note that if the amount of the course fees owing is more than what was transferred to your student account, you will be dropped from the course.

Ready to get started?

Visit the Courses tab to select your course and proceed with the registration steps.

M.Sc. Degree

The minimum admissions and general  requirements for the M.Sc. Degree appear under the Regulations for the Master’s degrees near the beginning of this Calendar. Meeting the minimum admissions criteria does not guarantee admission to the program.

Detailed information regarding the application requirements are outlined on the HRM website at: http://fhs.mcmaster.ca/hrm/msc_application.html

McMaster’s Postgraduate Medical Education Program allows Clinician Investigator Program trainees the opportunity to undertake a Master’s or Ph.D. degree as a full-time student (please refer to the Handbook for CIP trainees and the Health Sciences Graduate Programs Policy re CIP Applicants; separate applications are required for both).

A. M.Sc. by Thesis

Requirements.

Requirements for the thesis-based M.Sc. degree include: i) successful completion of at least five half courses at the graduate level of which: a) one course must be HTH RS M 721   , b) one course must be HTH RS M 702   and c) the remaining required courses may be selected from among the courses offered by the HRM Program; ii) field-specific courses (if applicable); iii) successful completion of a research internship; and iv) submission and successful defence of a thesis. The required courses for the M.Sc. thesis are:

• HTH RS M 702 / Introduction to Biostatistics
• HTH RS M 721 / Fundamentals of Health Research and Evaluation Methods
• HTH RS M 730 / Introduction to Research Methods for Randomized Controlled Trials
• HTH RS M 737 / Economic Analysis for the Evaluation of Health Services
• HTH RS M 741 / Introduction to Health Technology Assessment
• HTH RS M 743 / Systematic Review Methods
• HTH RS M 751 / Observational and Analytical Research Methods
• HTH RS M 762 / Approaches to the Evaluation of Health Services
• HTH RS M 787 / Principles of Health Economics

B. M.Sc. by Course Work

Requirements for the course-based MSc degree include: i) successful completion of at least seven half courses at the graduate level of which: a) one course must be HTH RS M 721   , b) one course must be HTH RS M 702   and c) the remaining required courses may be selected from among the courses offered by the HRM Program; ii) field-specific courses; iii) successful completion of a research internship; and iv) a scholarly paper on a methodological issue, written at the completion of course work.

The required courses for the M.Sc. by coursework are as follows:

• HTH RS M 723 / Regression Analysis
• HTH RS M 727 / Theory and Practice of Measurement
• HTH RS M 731 / Advanced Linear Models for Health Data
• HTH RS M 733 / Statistical and Methodologic Issues in Randomized Clinical Trials
• HTH RS M 745 / Qualitative Research Methods

Additional Information

A part-time student who receives permission for exemption from the formal research internship requirement must successfully complete an additional HRM graduate half course.

Students are expected to attend and participate in rounds and special events of the Department of Health, Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact (HEI) (formerly the Department of Clinical Epidemiology & Biostatistics and HRM student rounds.

Transfer to Ph.D.

Students wishing to be transferred to the Ph.D. program prior to completion of the M.Sc. degree by Thesis option (see section 2.1.2   of the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies and the statement entitled “Policy and Procedure for Transfer from the M.Sc. to Ph.D. Health Research Methodology”) must have a minimum of an A- average in the M.Sc. curriculum with no grade less than a B, and must submit a critical Transfer Report, embodying a statement of progress and achievement in their research work to date and a proposal for Ph.D. research. The Transfer Report must be submitted within 18 months from entry at the M.Sc. level as a full-time student and 36 months from entry as a part-time student. The student must have successfully completed those courses required for the HRM M.Sc. Degree by Thesis as well as the formal research internship requirement before the Transfer Meeting. Part-time M.Sc. students would normally be expected to become full-time students when successfully transferring to the Ph.D. Approval to transfer will be determined at a meeting of the Transfer Committee at which the student will present his/her work and ideas for Ph.D. study orally.

C. Co-op Option

Full-time HRM thesis or course-based Master’s students who have successfully completed at least four half courses may be considered for the co-op option. The number of students selected will be subject to available placements.

To complete the M.Sc. co-op option successfully, the student must work a total of eight months in either one or two work-study placements. Each placement must be approved by the HRM Coordinator. For M.Sc. by thesis students, a project undertaken during a work term may evolve into a thesis topic during the second work placement, subject to the appropriate approvals.

At the completion of each work-term placement, the student must write a report and append a letter of evaluation by the employer.

During the co-op placement, a student will be paid by the employer. A separate co-op fee must be paid prior to placement. A student completing the co-op option will be exempted from the research internship requirement. This option would normally require longer than 2 years to complete.

McMaster Institute for Research on Aging

Elizabeth alvarez.

Contact Information

• 905 525 9140 ext. 22248
• [email protected]

Additional links

Elizabeth Alvarez is a physician with practice experience in primary care, mental health and public health, and is an Associate Professor in the Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact (HEI) at McMaster University. After completing her medical degree and family medicine residency at the University of Toledo in Ohio, she earned a master’s degree in public health through the Northwest Ohio Consortium for Public Health, and a PhD in Health Policy at McMaster University. She also holds a certificate in cognitive behavioural therapy (CMCBT).

Her research uses policy analysis and qualitative and mixed methods for applied knowledge translation, spanning the role of context in evidence informed decision making, public health topics, sustainable health behaviour change across the lifespan, and multidisciplinary care.

Affiliations

• Associate Assistant Professor
• ​Associate Professor, Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence and Impact (HEI)
• Member, Centre for Health Economics and Policy Analysis (CHEPA)
• Member, McMaster Institute for Research on Aging (MIRA)
• Member, Medical Psychotherapy Association Canada (MDPAC)
• Endorsed Affiliate, The Research Institute of St. Joe’s Hamilton
• BSc, University of Toledo
• MPH, Northwest Ohio Consortium for Public Health
• PhD, McMaster University
• MD, Medical College of Ohio

Related Projects

The embolden trial: enhancing physical and community mobility in older adults with health inequalities using community co-design.

Major Program of Research

All Faculty

The researchers in our interdisciplinary network work together to improve the lives of older adults and create new understanding about aging.

Social science research: principles, methods, and practices 

Link to book here.

Who It’s For: Anyone new to research in the social sciences, business, education, public health, and related disciplines or anyone who needs a refresher on different research methodologies.

Why We Love It: This resource is accessible to the new and seasoned researcher. It covers research design, data collection and analysis, and research ethics. It will help you choose the right design for your project and give you important things to consider when collecting and analyzing your data. 

Citation: Bha ttacherjee , A. (2012). Social science research: principles, methods, and practices . Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial- ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License   

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Department of biology, biology symposium celebrates 142 undergrad student researchers.

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Dr. Juliet Daniel Named One of Canada’s Top Black Innovators in Research and Medicine

March 1, 2024

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February 12, 2024

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Lauded theoretical chemist and Lipscomb alumnus speaks at 2024 Student Scholars Symposium

Paul Ayers, award-winning research scientist, found his calling and his research skills in Lipscomb’s science classrooms.

From staff reports |  04/10/2024

Parts of this story were pulled from a 2015 story by Kim Chaudoin.

There are few people who could better represent the epitome of a Lipscomb research scientist than the Canada Research Chair for Theoretical Chemistry at McMaster University, Paul Ayers (BS ’96).

Ayers heard his calling at Lipscomb. He built his intellectual and professional skills and his research resume at Lipscomb. He discovered his way to make a difference in the world at Lipscomb.

And this month he will be coming back to Lipscomb to share his career experience with the next generation of Lipscomb researchers at a free lecture at the Student Scholars Symposium on Thursday, April 11 , at 11:30 a.m., in the George Shinn Center .

“Despite the fact—or maybe because—my parents were chemistry professors, I came to science relatively late,” said Ayers. “It was late in my senior year of high school that I decided to study physics,” the first of three majors he held upon graduating from Lipscomb. 

But that late start has not held him back in his eventual chosen field of theoretical chemistry.

In addition to his work at McMaster University in Canada as professor of chemistry and chemical biology, and his postdoctoral fellowship at Duke University, he has also published 370 papers and book chapters, given more than 300 invited lectures and has won a plethora of awards including several of the top international awards in the field: the Dirac Medal, the annual medal of the International Academy of Quantum Molecular Science, the Rutherford Medal and a fellowship in the Royal Society of Chemistry.

“Dr. Ayers is extremely well-known and well-respected in the field,” said Lipscomb’s retired chair of chemistry Kent Clinger , who taught Ayers during his years at Lipscomb. “It is amazing how many awards he has won. That puts him in rare company and indicates to me that it wouldn’t be beyond the realm of possibility for Dr. Ayers to be in the conversation for a Nobel Prize at some point.”

Theoretical chemistry seeks to provide conceptual, mathematical and computational tools for describing chemical and physical reactions. By being able to predict chemical phenomena, scientists like Ayers could help open the door for new medical therapies, as well as other technologies, to be developed much faster, less expensively and more safely.

Ayers leads one of the largest theoretical groups in Canada. His wide-ranging contributions to the field have included purely mathematical concepts, unique algorithms and leading-edge computer programming. His research focus is contributing to developing new machine-learning methods for predicting the properties of molecules and materials, deciphering complex chemical reactions and designing new drugs.

When I impetuously decided to try to complete a chemistry major in just two years, Dr. Bill Tallon made it happen... I was asked to supervise a lab for Dr. Paul Langford. That played a major role in my pursuit of an academic career. Lipscomb was the nest where my scientific life fledged. — Paul Ayers

The North Carolina native applied to Lipscomb intending to be a writer, but changed his mind before arriving, deciding to major in physics. “My father was a classmate of Dr. ( Fletcher ) Srygley in physics… Lipscomb impressed me with the quality of its science offerings, so I made the decision to go there,” Ayers said.

“Soon I realized that I enjoyed the mathematical aspects of physics more than applications. So I added mathematics as a second major,” he said.

After his second year at Lipscomb, one of his parents’ colleagues at East Carolina University hired him to do summer research in theoretical chemistry. “This was a transformative experience,” he said. “I learned that I could use the tools I love—mathematics and physics—to study problems I find interesting such as how and why chemical reactions happen. So I added chemistry as a third major.”

After two more years of diligent study and one more summer of research, he graduated with a triple-major in mathematics, physics and chemistry (and a perfect 4.0 GPA). 

“I also took nearly 20 elective courses in philosophy, religion and creative writing, reflecting broad interests that I maintain to this day,” he said.

During his days at Lipscomb, former physics professor Everett Hunt “took me under his wing,” allowing him to take his first-year physics course as an independent study, and retired professor of chemistry Bill Tallon piqued his interest in chemistry.

“When I impetuously decided to try to complete a chemistry major in just two years, (Dr. Tallon) made it happen. In my third year, I was asked to supervise a lab for Dr.  Paul Langford . That played a major role in my pursuit of an academic career. Lipscomb was the nest where my scientific life fledged.”

The modern methods... are really just the modern manifestations of the classical mathematical statistics I learned from Dr. Doy Holman at Lipscomb. — Paul Ayers

And the fledgling interest has grown over a lifetime into a passion.

“What I love about my job is that it is something new every day,” said Ayers. “Theorists strive to understand why things happen. Each day brings new challenges: a new facet of a problem to contemplate, a new perspective to consider. It’s an ideal field for idea junkies like me.”

Based partly on generous fellowship support from the University of North Carolina, Ayers opted to pursue a Ph.D. in chemistry under the direction of Professor Robert Parr. “Parr’s approach to research—using mathematics and physics to study fundamental problems in chemistry and chemical reactivity—appealed to me, and soon I was ‘addicted’ to research,” he said. 

Upon receiving his Ph.D. in 2001, Ayers joined the research group of Dr. Weitao Yang in the chemistry department at Duke University, where he held a National Institutes of Health Postdoctoral Research Fellowship. While Yang’s research also uses physics and mathematics at a high level, his research focuses on developing new computational methods for biochemistry and materials science, said Ayers. 

“With Prof. Yang, I learned more about computational methods and the ways theoretical chemistry can be used to address practical problems,” he said. “My postdoctoral experience completed my transformation from mathematical physics to my current research niche, which lies somewhere between Professor Parr (whose research was typically more abstract) and Professor Yang (whose research is often more applied).”

After a year at Duke, Ayers left to become an assistant professor of chemistry at McMaster University. Since then, he has focused on establishing his career as a teacher, mentor, colleague and researcher. Ayer’s work in the field has the potential for significant practical application. For example, determining how a single molecule could behave like a tiny magnet could lead to advances in quantum computing and information storage as well as refrigeration and air conditioning systems that are more environmentally friendly.

Theorists strive to understand why things happen. Each day brings new challenges: a new facet of a problem to contemplate, a new perspective to consider. It’s an ideal field for idea junkies like me. — Paul Ayers

The other main thrust of Ayers’ research is to develop new chemical concepts and principles.

“Most of the concepts, principles and rules that chemists use predate the discovery of quantum mechanics. Unfortunately, most of these concepts and principles don’t actually have any quantum-mechanical foundation; they are purely phenomenological,” he said. “We try to find mathematical justifications for existing concepts and principles and try to develop new ones that are firmly grounded in quantum mechanics. We then use these principles to make predictions, often using modern statistical methods.”

The modern methods incorporate buzzwords like “big data” and “machine learning,” said Ayers, “but they are really just the modern manifestations of the classical mathematical statistics I learned from Dr. Doy Holman at Lipscomb.”

Perhaps the most unconventional facet of his research is its emphasis on developing tools for understanding, at a qualitative level, why chemical reactions happen. For example, he has used the mathematical frameworks provided by information theory and density-functional theory to bridge the gap between physical principles and chemical concepts like atomic populations and the hard/soft acid/base reactivity rule. 

At a quantitative level, he develops accurate and efficient quantum chemistry methods. His recent work along those lines includes the use of wavefunction forms of exactly solvable models to study chemical systems. These new wavefunction forms generalize some traditional approaches in quantum chemistry (notably antisymmetric products of geminals) but, unlike traditional approaches, remain effective when electrons are strongly correlated. 

He is one of the four co-founders of, and the de facto lead scientist for, the QC-Devs software consortium, an international group of 75 software developers who develop free and open source software for the computational sciences, emphasizing chemistry. 

He also co-founded and leads QC-Edu, which develops online training materials and presents scientific training workshops on theoretical chemistry, computer programming and software development at institutions around the world.

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