ViaX Research Education
Think back to the person who helped you feel that research was something you could actually do. We’re looking for mentors who can offer that experience to the next generation.
ViaX connects students with top professors, scientists, researchers and academic mentors through small-group and one-to-one research programs. We’re expanding our mentor team to help high school and university students turn their interests into focused questions, thoughtful investigations, and work they can confidently explain.
About the role
You’ll guide students through the research process within your area of expertise. Depending on the project, this may involve reviewing literature, developing research questions, learning methods, analysing evidence, building a prototype, or preparing a paper or presentation.
We also offer remote and hybrid programs in Canada, the US, and Asia, combining online academic learning with local, in-person activities. Mentors interested in this format may help lead practical workshops, project sessions, or field-based learning, depending on their location and the project.
What you’ll do
- Help students develop research questions that are meaningful and realistic for their experience, resources, and timeline.
- Explain relevant concepts and methods in clear, accessible language.
- Lead mentoring sessions and give constructive feedback on students’ work.
- Help students work through challenges, evaluate evidence, and develop their own reasoning.
- Support academic writing and presentations, with an emphasis on students understanding and owning their work.
- Keep brief progress notes and coordinate with our program team when students need additional support.
- For agreed hybrid assignments, help plan and deliver activities connected to the research topic.
Your focus will be academic mentorship. Our program team will coordinate scheduling and student support with you.
Who we’re looking for
- Current PhD students, PhD graduates, or postdoctoral researchers with relevant research experience.
- Strong knowledge of your field and the ability to make complex ideas understandable to a beginner.
- A patient, encouraging approach, alongside clear expectations and useful feedback.
- Reliable communication and the ability to commit consistently throughout a project.
- Strong spoken and written English.
Teaching, tutoring, supervision, or science communication experience is welcome. Mandarin proficiency may be useful for some student groups, but is not a requirement for every assignment.
We welcome research backgrounds across STEM, social sciences, humanities, and the arts. Please be specific about the topics and methods you can confidently support.
Why join us?
Bring your research into an educational setting, develop your mentoring practice, and help students build confidence through work they have genuinely done themselves.
You don’t need to have every answer. You do need to help students ask better questions, find reliable evidence, and keep making progress.
How to apply
Please submit your CV and a short note covering:
- Your research area and two or three topics you could mentor.
- Any experience teaching or supporting students.
- Your location, time zone, and weekly availability.
- Whether you’re interested in online mentoring, local in-person activities, or both.
A link to your research profile, publications, or portfolio is welcome. No lengthy cover letter is needed.
