About the program
Lead change for a sustainable future.
As a Reach student researcher, you’ll collaborate in interdisciplinary teams to investigate overlooked climate, public health and economic challenges – especially those affecting under-served populations for geographic, administrative or social barriers.
Your research, grounded in local community will generate actionable insights, that help accelerate progress towards the SDGs and launch your own leadership journey as a global change maker.
Over 12-18 months, you’ll:
- Design and conduct primary research project in collaboration with local partners
- Work with world-class faculty mentors
- Author and publish a professional-grade case study
- Build leadership and teamwork skills through expert team coaching
- Present findings at a global Reach conference
- Join a lifelong network of purpose-driven leaders.
Program
highlights
Rigorous Research Training
From project design to knowledge translation, experience the full research cycle.
Interdisciplinary Collaboration
Learn from and with students across disciplines.
Faculty Mentorship
Work closely with leading researchers in global development.
Global Fieldwork
Collect primary data in the field with real-world stakeholders.
Performance Coaching
Receive expert coaching to boost team dynamics and personal growth.
Professional Development
Participate in tailored workshops on research methods, ethics, interviewing, and career readiness
Career Launchpad
Craft your personal narrative and career path through Reach’s offboarding support.
Global Alumni Network
Stay connected with a dynamic, international community of purpose-driven leaders.
What we
look for
Reach researchers come from diverse academic and cultural backgrounds. Ideal candidates share the following qualities:
- Prioritization Skills: Strong time management and ability to meet deadlines.
- Global Mindset: A passion for sustainable development and social impact.
- Team Collaboration: Empathy, communication, and a team-first attitude.
- Clear Communication: Ability to express complex ideas effectively.
- Strategic Thinking: Creativity and systems thinking to tackle complex challenges.
- Lifelong Learning: Eagerness to grow through new experiences.
- Action-Oriented: Self-motivated with a commitment to results.
What others are saying
“The most rewarding component of the Reach Alliance has been learning alongside fellow researchers, scholars, and experts who have informed me of new research methodologies, the importance of ethical research, and how my Master’s research could encourage a more sustainable and localized approach to humanitarian responses.”
Isabel Davis
Hons. BA in Political Science and European Studies, University of Toronto, 2021-22 Reach Researcher
“The impact of Reach on my professional growth has exceeded my expectations. My first experience speaking on a panel was through Reach and since then, I’ve been invited to speak at multiple events.”
Jemila Abdulai
Master of Engineering, Mastercard Foundation Scholar, University of Toronto, 2024-25 Reach Researcher
“It has been an amazing experience to share, learn, and grow among a global cohort of such passionate and critical thinkers. I am trememedously passionate about the development of appropriate engineering technologies. I am very appreciative of programs like the Reach Alliance for fostering growth and development of individuals like myself, better equipping me as a global thinker!”
Jina Yazdanpanah
BA in Applied Science in Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, 2021-22 Reach Researcher
“As I became involved in Reach and learned more about global efforts to achieve the SDGs, my career focus shifted from clinical practice to more upstream approaches to addressing public health concerns. The research, network connections, and skills gained throughout my time with Reach prepared me to confidently enter the field of global health.”
Olivia Kuhlman
Master of Public Health Nutrition and Dietetics, University of Toronto, 2021-22 Reach Researcher
“One of the key reasons I chose the University of Toronto over the University of Cambridge was the Reach Alliance. Throughout my education and career, I have been deeply fascinated by how to effectively implement and scale innovations to reach underserved populations. I am excited to join Reach to further develop my leadership potential and engage in impactful research..”
Naturinda Emmanuel
Master in Health Informatics, Mastercard Foundation Scholar, University of Toronto, 2025-26 Reach Researcher
“Our commitment to research and social impact is a testament to our belief that knowledge when harnessed and applied wisely has the power to bridge gaps, and barriers and create opportunities for all.”
Juan Pablo Murra
Rector for Higher Education, Tecnológico de Monterrey; Advisory Council, Reach Alliance
“Solving big problems requires collaboration and co-creation [across sectors and disciplines]. And leadership that is human! Reach prepares the next generation of global leaders by turbo-charging the development of human skills like adaptability, collaboration, creativity and empathy.”
Zabeen Hirji. Retired Chief HR Officer, Royal Bank of Canada; Executive Advisor, Future of Work, Deloitte; Advisory Council, Reach Alliance
“It’s a life-changing experience to share spaces, even if digital, with a community of people driven together by the desire to create a positive and lasting global impact. Reach is an example of what can happen when the right people get together and create opportunities for young people to get involved and to use their knowledge to build something bigger than ourselves.”
Giovanna Villalobos
Bachelor of Arts, Tecnológico de Monterrey, 2020-21 Reach Alumna
“Attending the 2023 Mexico Reach Conference helped me reflect on the importance of having a holistic and multidisciplinary approach to addressing global issues and creating innovative solutions. This has reignited my interest in using our research in an applied manner to make substantial and sustainable change. It was also incredibly motivating to hear about all the visionary research being conducted worldwide by our generation.”
Francesca Lanzarotti
Master of Science, University College London, 2022-23 Reach Researcher
Ready to apply?
Start your journey as a Reach researcher—and discover what’s possible when purpose meets action.
Equity & Inclusion Commitment
The Reach Alliance is committed to equity, diversity, and inclusion. We strive to create inclusive research environments and remove systemic barriers to participation. Learn more in our Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Charter.
If you require accommodations at any stage, contact reachalliance.munk@utoronto.ca.