Integrated Research Literacy Group
Welcome to the Integrated Research Literacy Group: a non-traditional research lab focused on scientific writing and communication. We teach tertiary students how to systematically obtain, critically evaluate, and use different kinds of empirical evidence; as well as how to present science with precision, clarity, and objectivity. Students develop these skills through the process of writing manuscripts for publication. As such, we aim to graduate "research literate" individuals who can be articulate in their academic or professional work and beyond.
A Network of Like-Minded People
Our mission is to build a diverse network of like-minded individuals who are committed to research literacy, scientific progress, and improving the lives of others. We aim to achieve this mission by establishing an inclusive, multidisciplinary, and pro-mental health community for members to thrive in, in addition to providing both need- and merit-based scholarships. Students at the IRLG are therefore considered "family", engaging in stimulating and collaborative research projects, learning through failures and achievements together, and supporting one another both within and outside of the group. Each student can be sure of a vibrant research experience that supplements their professional ambitions, as well as cultivating relationships that last a lifetime.
Helping Students Get Published
Publishing within a reputable academic journal is challenging for many, especially students, of whom may not have the know-how, resources, or opportunities to do so. The IRLG is therefore dedicated to helping students overcome these obstacles, whether at the undergraduate, post-baccalaureate, or graduate level. Each semester, students are taught the fundamentals of scientific inquiry and manuscript writing, and are provided abundant opportunities for publications. Specifically, students learn how formulate research questions, conduct exploratory and systematic literature reviews, develop and execute review protocols, identify target journals and utilize author guidelines, draft and revise manuscripts, respond to reviewer comments, and much more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What type of articles does the IRLG publish?
We publish the following article types: meta-analyses; systematic, scoping, narrative, and literature reviews, and case series and reports. Our group only publishes original research (i.e., experimental data) if collaborating with an academic or industry parter. (We do not conduct active research.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the IRLG offer paid positions for students?
No. All students at the IRLG operate on a volunteer basis. However, we do offer both need- and merit-based scholarships every semester, which can provide financial support to students. Please note that scholarship amounts vary based on available funding and do not renew. Learn more here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How many manuscripts can students work on?
Students working 6-10 hours per week typically contribute to 2-3 manuscripts each semester. However, we do not hold back highly motivated and independent students from meaningfully contributing to more. This also depends on students' pace and research proficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will working at the IRLG help students get into grad school?
Absolutely. We offer a unique experience for students to learn and engage in scientific writing, and subsequently contribute to a given field. Students walk away with several publications, and some even with first-author publications that make them especially competitive applicants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can students write manuscripts on topics of their choice?
Absolutely. We highly encourage students to pursue topics that align with their interests and/or academic field of study. Such manuscripts are generally limited to review articles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can international students work at the IRLG?
Yes. We have a diverse group of students primarily located across the United States, though welcome international students. Everyone works remotely to accommodate this.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can students be first-author on manuscripts?
Yes. This role is reserved to the person who has made the most significant intellectual contribution to a given manuscript. As such, students must contribute meaningfully and substantially to be a first-author. We recommend that students complete 1 semester at the IRLG before pursuing this.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does it take to publish a manuscript?
This depends on the article type, whether a student is taking lead, and if we are collaborating with others. On average, it takes 2-3 months to write a manuscript from start to finish, in addition to 2-8 months for it to undergo the peer-review process once submitted to a journal.