Summer Studentship

The CRAF Summer Studentship Competition is now open!   Applications are due Friday, March 20, 2026.

The Canadian Rheumatology Association (CRA) is pleased to offer full-time Summer Studentship positions across Canada from May 22 to August 31, 2026. 

This program is designed to introduce medical students to the specialty of rheumatology and to foster early interest in pursuing rheumatology as a career. 

• The Clinical Stream provides hands-on experience working with a CRA Member (rheumatologist) in a clinical setting. 

• The Research Stream offers the opportunity to participate in a supervised research project to strengthen research skills and academic development. 

Note: Funding for the program is pending external confirmation and is subject to approval of the government grant, expected by the end of April 2026.

Eligibility – Must Read! 

Important: Only students collaborating with a CRA Member/Mentor listed below are eligible to apply. Applications from students without a listed mentor will not be considered. 

Applicants must also meet the following requirements: 

• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident (proof required if selected) 

• Be under 30 years of age (as required under Canada Summer Jobs funding rules) 

• Be a current medical student enrolled in a Canadian medical school 

• Have a CRA Member (rheumatologist) mentor available for the full duration of the program 

•  Not be related to their mentor 

Medical malpractice insurance is required (costs are the student’s responsibility). 

Program Streams  

Students may apply to one of the following streams: 

Clinical Stream

Research Stream 

Application Process 

The application must be jointly submitted by: 

• The student applicant 

• The CRA Member (Mentor) 

Both parties must collaborate in preparing and submitting the application. Please use the links above to apply. 

Remuneration & Employment Terms 

• Salary: Provincial minimum wage (based on placement location) 

• Placement dates: May 22 – August 31, 2026 

• Students will sign an employment contract with the CRA 

• Hours must be submitted biweekly; only contracted hours will be paid 

Funding remains pending external confirmation (expected by the end of April 2026). 

Selection Criteria 

Applications will be reviewed by a CRA committee based on: 

• Demonstrated interest in clinical or research rheumatology 

• Relevant experience and qualifications (CV) 

• Mentor’s description of the proposed clinical or research experience 

Proof of medical school enrollment is required. 

Recognition & Opportunities 

CRAF may: 

• Promote the studentship program publicly 

• Publish selected student experiences 

• Feature exceptional students and mentors in the journal of the CRA, CRAJ 

Equity & Inclusion 

CRAF is committed to fair, open, and inclusive recruitment practices. All selection processes comply with applicable legislation and are conducted free from bias or discrimination. 

CRAF reserves the right to modify or cancel the program without notice. 

Please direct all inquiries to Mona Bosinceanu at mbosinceanu@rheum.ca.

CRAF Clinical Studentship Testimonial