Research Fellowship Program

Introduction

We are introducing our Research Fellowship on Mental Health Awareness – a transformative program designed to empower passionate and driven students or student ambassadors. This fellowship offers a chance to delve into in-depth research on critical mental health-related topics, guided by senior members and advisors. Preference for this program will be given to underserved students to be a part of this opportunity.  

Our program’s primary objective is to contribute significantly to the existing body of knowledge on mental health. Through research and exploration, we aim to provide valuable insights to drive future endeavors and practical applications, ultimately fostering positive change in mental health awareness.

As a participant in this  fellowship, you will enrich your academic journey and cultivate essential research and communication skills. 

AND WHAT’S MORE? YOU WILL BE PAID!

SO, Join us as we to make a meaningful impact on mental health, shaping a brighter and more compassionate future for individuals and communities alike. Embark on this experience and drive change on your campus and beyond.

Why should you be a part of this?

• Gain Invaluable Experience: The fellowship provides a unique opportunity to engage in in-depth research on mental health awareness, contributing to the existing body of knowledge and building essential research skills.
• Drive Positive Change: By being part of this fellowship, you can actively contribute to advancing mental health awareness and advocacy, making a meaningful impact on yourself and communities.
• Mentorship and Guidance: Benefit from the guidance of experienced senior members and advisors who will support and nurture your research journey.
• Foster Personal Growth: The fellowship offers a platform for personal development, enhancing your critical thinking, communication, and leadership abilities.
• Expand Your Network: Connect with like-minded individuals and mental health experts, forging lasting relationships and expanding your professional network.
• Make a Difference: Your research findings and insights can lead to practical applications and initiatives that positively impact mental health outcomes.
• Enhance Your Resume: Participation in a prestigious research fellowship demonstrates your commitment to mental health and adds credibility to your academic and professional profile.
• Contribute to a Greater Cause: Joining the mental health research fellowship allows you to be part of a more significant movement dedicated to breaking the silence surrounding mental health challenges and creating a more compassionate society.
• Stipend: Students will receive a set amount as a part of the fellowship from Rcoz. The amount may vary depending on the project. 

Eligibility Requirements?

• Currently enrolled undergraduate or graduate students at an accredited university or community college.
• Minimum age requirement of 18 years.
• Demonstrated interest and passion for mental health awareness and research.
• Strong academic record and commitment to academic excellence.
• Prior experience in mental health research or related fields (beneficial but not mandatory).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a team and engage in constructive discussions.
• Willingness to commit a specific duration of time to the fellowship.
• Availability to attend fellowship-related events, workshops, and meetings as required.
• A positive and empathetic attitude towards addressing mental health challenges.
• Willingness to contribute actively to the fellowship’s goals and objectives.

What are you expected to do?

• Engaging in in-depth research on mental health-related topics contributes to the existing body of knowledge.
• Collaborate with experienced senior members and advisors, seeking guidance and mentorship throughout the research process.
• Conduct thorough literature reviews and gather data to support your research findings.
• Analyze and interpret research data to draw meaningful conclusions and insights.
• Present your research findings through reports, presentations, or academic publications.
• Participate in fellowship-related events, workshops, and discussions to enhance your knowledge and research skills.
• Actively contribute to fostering a supportive and inclusive research environment for mental health advocacy.
• Work collaboratively with fellow researchers, exchanging ideas and knowledge.
• Demonstrate dedication and commitment to the fellowship’s objectives and goals.
• Embrace personal growth and development through continuous learning and self-improvement.
• Contribute to the larger mission of advancing mental health awareness and promoting positive change within the field.

What does the timeline look like?

Rough Timeline for the 6-Month Mental Health Research Fellowship:

Month 1:

• Orientation and Onboarding: Introduce the fellows to the program’s objectives, guidelines, and expectations. Assign/choose research topics and provide relevant resources.
• Initial Research Planning: Fellows meet with their mentors to discuss their research proposals and outline the scope and methodology of their projects.

Month 2:

• Literature Review: Fellows conduct comprehensive literature reviews to understand existing research in their field better.
• Data Collection: Gather relevant data and conduct surveys or interviews, depending on the research approach.

Month 3:

• Data Analysis: Analyze the collected data and draw initial conclusions and insights.
• Progress Report #1: Fellows submit their first progress report, outlining their research findings and challenges.

Month 4:

• Refinement and Further Analysis: Refine the research findings based on feedback received and continue with further data analysis.
• Practice Presentations: Fellows start practicing presenting their research to peers and mentors to improve their communication skills.

Month 5:

• Finalize Research: Conclude the data analysis and finalize the research findings.
• Progress Report #2: Fellows submit their second progress report, highlighting the finalized research outcomes and any adjustments made.

Month 6:

• Prepare Final Presentation: Fellows prepare a comprehensive presentation of their research findings.
• Final Presentation: Fellows present their research to the organization’s members and receive feedback from individuals with diverse backgrounds.
• Fellowship Completion: Conclude the fellowship with a ceremony to acknowledge the efforts and achievements of the fellows.

Note: Please be aware that if the research conducted during this fellowship is published, Rcoz will hold the copyright for the published work. This allows us to acknowledge the contributions of our esteemed fellows properly and ensures that the organization can continue promoting mental health awareness and advancing research in the field. We greatly value the dedication and efforts of our fellows in making a positive impact, and this copyright agreement aligns with our commitment to fostering a collaborative and supportive research community.

Throughout the 6-month duration, fellows will have bi-weekly progress report meetings with their mentors or program coordinators, providing them with opportunities to practice presenting their research to individuals from different backgrounds. These regular check-ins will also serve as a platform for addressing challenges and receiving guidance to ensure a successful research experience.

Note: The timeline is subject to adjustment based on the complexity of the research topic and the availability of data and resources.

By the end of the fellowship, the researcher should have a thorough understanding of the chosen mental health-related topic, along with a well-documented research report and presentation that contributes to the field of mental health research. The researcher should also have developed valuable research skills and established professional relationships with senior members and advisors, paving the way for future collaborations and research endeavors in the field.

Derivables?

1. Literature Review:
   • Conduct a comprehensive literature review on the chosen mental health-related topic(s) to gain an understanding of the existing research, theories, and frameworks.
   • Summarize and critically analyze key findings from relevant academic papers, books, and reports.
2. Research Proposal:
   • Develop a research proposal outlining the research questions, objectives, methodology, and ethical considerations for the study.
   • Present the research proposal to the advisors and senior members for feedback and approval.
3. Data Collection:
   • Identify appropriate data collection methods, such as surveys, interviews, or experiments, depending on the research questions and objectives.
   • Collect primary and/or secondary data in a systematic and ethical manner, adhering to research protocols and guidelines.
   • Ensure data quality and accuracy through proper documentation and organization.
4. Data Analysis:
   • Analyze the collected data using appropriate statistical or qualitative analysis techniques.
   • Interpret the results and identify patterns, trends, and relationships relevant to the research questions.
   • Present the findings using suitable visualizations and tables to enhance understanding and facilitate discussions.
5. Report Writing:
   • Prepare a comprehensive research report documenting the entire research process, including the literature review, research design, data collection, analysis, and findings.
   • Organize the report coherently, ensuring clarity and conciseness.
   • Follow appropriate citation and referencing styles for all sources consulted during the research.
6. Presentation:
   • Prepare a presentation summarizing the research project, including the research objectives, methodology, main findings, and implications.
   • Present the research findings to the academic community, including advisors, senior members, and other relevant stakeholders.
   • Engage in discussions and address questions or feedback from the audience.
7. End Goals:
   • Contribute new knowledge to the field of mental health awareness research through original research findings and insights.
   • Enhance understanding of the chosen mental health-related topic(s) and its implications for individuals, communities, and society.
   • Develop research skills, including critical thinking, data collection, analysis, and report writing.
   • Strengthen collaboration and networking with senior members, advisors, and fellow researchers.
   • Establish a foundation for further research or practical applications in the field of mental health.

Duration?

Six months.

How to apply?

Apply through the form below.

For any inquiries or additional information about the Research Fellowship Program, feel free to reach out to our team at [email protected]. We are here to answer your questions and support you on your journey towards becoming an ambassador for mental health.