The SOS program is designed to help graduate students formulate and understand the statistical issues involved in their research projects and is open to all UBC Vancouver graduate students. So, if you are a graduate student at UBC Vancouver and are interested in taking advantage of this program, please submit a description of your work outlining your statistical questions. Your project description should be approximately one page in length, should consist of a concise description of your research problem, and a clear indication of the specific statistical issues on which you desire assistance. Please use non-specialist language in your description.

See our sample project descriptions for examples of the type of information we seek:

Example 1, Example 2, Example 3

To submit your project:

  1. Arrange for your supervisor to send an e-mail to asda@stat.ubc.ca with the subject line “SOS permission”, giving us permission to work with you.

  2. Create your project description using your favourite editor. Then convert it to PDF format and send it as an attachment to an email, with the subject “SOS project”, to asda@stat.ubc.ca.

An ASDA consultant will contact you to clarify any points of your submission. The project description not only helps you focus your project but it also gives us a basic understanding of the project before we meet. Please note that we require an e-mail from your supervisor granting their permission before we can meet or provide any guidance on your project.

Once we have a clear description and permission from your supervisor, a meeting will be arranged at a convenient time to discuss your project and address your statistical questions. The meeting should last approximately one hour. Shortly after the meeting, you will receive a written summary with recommendations. This service is provided at no charge to you.

The SOS program is made possible through funding support from the Office of the Provost and Vice President, Research and Innovation.

Note: Your personal information is collected under the authority of section 26(c) and 26(e) of the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA). This information will be used to contact you regarding the SOS program and for the purpose of evaluating the use of the SOS program. All information that identifies you will be kept confidential.