Events

Explore Computing Science Research Workshop 2025
Presented by the Computing Science Diversity Committee (CSDC), supported by Google Research (exploreCSR 2024), SFU Big Data Hub (BDH), and SFU Center for Educational Excellence (CEE)

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About the Workshop

This three-day workshop introduces undergraduate students to computer science research, connects them with research groups and resources, and provides guidance on pursuing CS research as a career. Participants will explore the world of computing research, meet experts from academia and industry, and receive support on graduate school applications.

This year's program allows students to choose one of three research themes to develop an initial project. Selected students may be offered paid opportunities to continue their work after the workshop.

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Important Dates

• Application Opens: April 1, 2025

• Round 1 Application Deadline: April 20, 2025

• Round 2 Application Deadline: April 27, 2025 (for remaining project group positions)

• Notification of Acceptance: April 30, 2025

• Workshop Dates: May 7–8, 2025 (9:00 AM – 4:00 PM daily)

Note: If the Round 1 deadline has passed, you are encouraged to apply by the Round 2 deadline as additional seats may become available.

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Workshop Highlights

• Learn about computer science research through hands-on participation

• Choose one of three project themes to explore

• Engage with researchers and peers from both academia and industry

• Receive guidance on graduate school applications and admissions

• Paid follow-up research opportunities available to selected participants

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Eligibility and Selection Criteria

• Open to undergraduate students from any discipline

• Must have completed at least one computer science or data science course

• Students from all backgrounds are welcome to apply

• Priority will be given to applicants from historically marginalized backgrounds, including but not limited to:

  • Women

  • 2SLGBTQ+

  • Indigenous students

  • Racialized students

  • Other underrepresented groups in computing

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How to Apply

• Application Form: Application: CSDC Explore Computing Science Research 2025 Survey

• More Information: www.sfu.ca/computing/diversity-in-computing-science.html

Presented by the Technology for Independent Living Program

The Technology for Independent Living Program (housed at Technology for Living) is excited to present the 10th Simon Cox Student Design Competition! This multidisciplinary and collaborative project challenges students to design innovative solutions that improve the quality of life for people with physical disabilities.

💰 $10,000 in prizes are up for grabs! From fashionable clothing to a wheelchair sidecar for a therapy dog, there are many exciting ideas waiting to be developed.

About the Competition

Students will work directly with individuals with physical disabilities to better understand the challenges they face in daily life. The competition is open to any student currently enrolled in a BC technical college or university, and entries will be judged based on design merit and functionality in helping people live as independently as possible.

This is a tremendous opportunity to:
✅ Make a real impact on people's lives
✅ Gain recognition for your work
✅ Showcase your skills to potential employers
✅ Win prize money!

Competition Details

📅 Final Showcase & Judging: April 26, 2025
📍 Location: Blusson Centre, Vancouver

📅 Application Deadline: February 13, 2025
🔗 Apply Here: Simon Cox Student Design Competition

Project Ideas from the Community

Here are some real-world challenges that people with physical disabilities are hoping students will help solve:

Assistive Devices & Mobility Solutions

• Sip ‘n Puff Fishing Rod
• Motorized Casting System for Fishing Rods
• Proximity Warning for Wheelchair Vans
• Heated Walker Handles
• Portable Lift for Power Wheelchairs
• Cushion Pressure Gauge
• Portable Taller Headrest for Air Travel
• Bike Pedal-Inspired Wheelchair Footrests Controlled by Joystick
• Hovercraft Wheelchair
• Wheelchair Sidecar for Therapy Dog

Smart Home & Daily Living Aids

• Smart Window Opener
• Adjustable Table Top
• Adjustable Blanket
• RV Transfer Aid
• Motorized Mobile Table Top
• Automatic Cabinet Opening Device
• Elevator Control via Phone
• Cabinet with Adjustable Height

Wearable & Adaptive Clothing

• Heated Socks Powered by a Wheelchair Battery
• Leg Warmer
• Poncho 2.0
• Modified Warm Clothing for Tracheostomy Users
• Heated Backrest
• Modified Thick Winter Pants
• Specialized Floormat
• Modified Boots

Technology & Communication Aids

• Touch-Activated Call Bell
• Ventilator Humidifier Water Level Sensor
• Page-Turning Device
• Extendable Telescoping Pole
• Bluetooth Headphones Integrated with Pillow or Wheelchair Headrest
• Motorized Drink Holder
• Wheelchair-Mounted Drink Warmer
• Small Form-Factor Door Opener
• 6-Output Multiplexer

Maybe you and your student team would like to take on one of these challenges!

Last Year's Winners

🏆 1st Place – Simon Cox Principal Award ($3,000)
Wheelchair Obstacle Detection System – UBC Enable

🥈 2nd Place – Achievement Award in Honour of Jim Watson ($2,000)
UBC Multiple Sclerosis to Movement (M2M) – UBC M2M

🥉 3rd Place – Innovation Award in Honour of Dr. Jeremy Road ($1,000)
Assistive Knitting Device – University of Victoria

🎖️ Peer’s Choice Award in Honour of Ken Kramer ($1,500)
Wheelchair Obstacle Detection System – UBC Enable