Students are currently conducting community based research projects for the 2025-2026 Academic Year. These projects in-progress span across a diverse range of programs and provides students with valuable real-world learning experiences while contributing to meaningful solutions for local organizations.
- Business Administration
- Biology
- Computing & Information Systems
- Environmental & Resource Science
- Forensic Science
- Gender & Social Justice
- History
- Math
- Master of Management
- Media Studies
- Policing & Community Wellbeing
- Political Studies
- Philosophy
- Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems
- Sociology
Business Administration
#6411: Short Term Rental Business, Licensing, Community Impact and Benefit
City of Kawartha Lakes
The City of Kawartha Lakes regulates Short-Term Rentals (STRs), which are properties rented for 28 days or less, benefiting tourism, businesses, and providing affordable housing. However, communities worry about potential disruptions to neighbourhood dynamics. This project will assess if the benefits of STRs outweigh the drawbacks for community support.
Student Researcher: Caleb Khan
Faculty Supervisor: Karen Pinto
Biology
#6405: Perception and knowledge of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine among post-secondary students 18-30 years of age in the Peterborough and Kawartha Lakes region of Ontario.
Immunize Canada
The student undertaking this project will explore the knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of post-secondary students aged 18 to 30 regarding HPV and the HPV vaccine to better understand local awareness and barriers to vaccination.
Student Researcher: Natalya Blanchard
Faculty Supervisor: Kirk Hillsley
#6412: Strategies for Implementing Sepsis Guidelines within Paramedic Services
Dalhousie Department of Emergency Medicine, Division of Emergency Medical Services
The student undertaking this project will write a manuscript on the facilitators and barriers to implementing the surviving sepsis guidelines within Paramedic Services. This research will inform EMS organizations about promising practices to improve sepsis care.
Student Researcher: Emma Brouwer
Faculty Supervisor: Amy Greer
#6423: Soil Health Analysis for Growing a Permaculture Food Forest
True Peace Toronto
The goal of this project is to analyze the nutrient content in the soil of our food forest. Our food forest has been baring very little fruits for the last several years and we suspect it may have to do with the quality of the soil. This project will help us understand if nutrient deficiencies are the cause of the unproductivity we are seeing in our fruit trees. At most, it will help us understand our soil better so we can rule out nutrient deficiencies and learn how to amend the soil to grow and produce better food and medicine.
Student Researcher: Shreema Satra
Faculty Supervisor: Karen Thompson
Computing & Information Systems
#6279: Fish Community Analysis in Baxter Creek at Zion Line
Freshwater Conservation Canada
Brook Trout (Savelinus fontinalis) abundance at the Zion Line reach of Baxter Creek is depressed compared with other reaches in the watershed. The primary goal of this project is to restore native Brook Trout populations in the Zion Line reach of Baxter Creek. Early stages of this project will analyze available data from this reach and compare/contrast with accepted research on similar habitats - biological data includes fish community and aquatic invertebrates, and physical data includes morphological habitat measurements. If the early work supports the pursuit of habitat restoration, next steps would include the design of instream and riparian restoration methods. Once a final plan is approved and permitted by necessary agencies, work onsite could be completed by Trout Unlimited members and volunteers, and students engaged in this project.
Student Researcher: Liam Atwood
Faculty Supervisor: Quazi Rahman
#6488: Assessing the Accessibility of the Peterborough Transit Website
City of Peterborough
This project will evaluate the accessibility and usability of the Peterborough Transit website for users with diverse abilities, focusing on everyday tasks such as trip planning and accessing service updates. The goal is to identify barriers and develop practical recommendations to improve access to public transit information.
Student Researchers: Tahsin Maklai, Tamanna Chauhan
Faculty Supervisor: Alaa Alslaity
Environmental & Resource Science
#6491: The Effect of Nature Connectedness, Awe, and Mental Health on Pro-environmental Behaviour (PEB)
Trent University Sustainability Office
The purpose of this research is to increase our knowledge of the interconnected nature of the different factors that facilitate an increase in PEB. This will be accomplished through an academic literature review aimed at examining the relationship between nature connectedness, awe, and mental health as well as how these factors interact to promote PEB. The results will then be presented in both a poster and academic paper format. Broadly, these results will have implications for those attempting to alter human behaviour to advance sustainability objectives such as conservation of green spaces and slowing of climate change. More immediately, the results will be used to inform the design of a mindfulness hike hosted by the sustainability office aimed at facilitating an increase in sustainable behaviour via nature connectedness and awe.
Student Researcher: Colin Doyle
Faculty Supervisor: Stephanie Rutherford
#6482: Job Transition and the Shift Off Fossil Fuels
The Energy Mix
This project would focus on the transition from jobs in fossil fuel-related industries to clean energy, specifically: the impact of job losses on communities, and the current skills development landscape for clean energy careers. The goal is to conduct research that will inform news coverage of this issue. The project would compile quantitative and qualitative data using research and community engagement methods, and would ideally form part of an article or series of articles exploring a just, practical, realistic transition to sustainable energy careers from an on-the-ground perspective. It would involve policy and media reviews, data analysis, and community surveys. Specific situations such as the recent layoffs at Algoma Steel and GM’s CAMI plant in Ingersoll could be highlighted, as well as a more general study of the impact of job loss in the oil and gas industry in Alberta and Saskatchewan. Because of The Energy Mix’s combination of news and community engagement through the Green Resilience Project, this project would provide a unique opportunity to explore a key piece of Canada’s economic and social transition to clean energy. The student/youth perspective is a particularly important lens through which to examine this issue.
Student Researchers: Bronwyn Godden, Nira Uthayasangar, Shantacia Swaby, Vedanth Devadiga
Faculty Supervisor: Eric Sagar
#6481: BrightField Spots in the City: Case Studies and Local Feasibility for a Solar Farm within Peterborough
4RG
This research project will explore how inner-city solar farms have been successfully developed in other communities, examining their impacts, success stories, and key lessons learned. The student will identify existing barriers to urban solar development and analyze what would be required to establish a similar project in Peterborough. This work will involve developing case studies and exploring local policies, informing a possible future CBR project including interviews with key stakeholders. The ultimate goal is to provide actionable insights and a roadmap for implementing an inner-city solar farm locally.
Student Researchers: Brianne Rutherford, Ethan Pelletier, Nathan Gillespie
Faculty Supervisor: Eric Sagar
#6478: Understanding Rodenticide Use, Risk Perception, and Attitudes Toward Rodents and Wildlife in Ontario
Defend Them All
This project will partner Trent University students with Rodenticide Free Ontario to design and pilot a community-based research study examining rodent management practices in Ontario, public understanding of rodenticide risks, and interest in humane, non-toxic, prevention-first alternatives. The study will also explore attitudes toward rodents and levels of concern for non-target species such as companion animals and wildlife, including birds of prey. Findings will directly inform public education, advocacy, and evidence-based outreach. The project emphasizes applied research that supports healthier, more sustainable communities.
Student Researchers: Adelaide Quinn, Isabelle Mullen, Karmin McDonald
Faculty Supervisor: Eric Sagar
#6477: Assessing Dissolved Oxygen as a Predictor of Aquatic Biodiversity
Land'escapes
Over the past 2–3 years, we’ve collected monthly dissolved oxygen data from six target lakes within the park, and we want to understand what this data reveals about lake conditions and the species they could potentially support. Currently, these lakes are dominated by thriving bass populations, with little diversity, likely influenced by decades of questionable stocking practices. This project will explore whether these lakes were historically suited for a more diverse fish community or if bass dominance is a natural outcome. The student will analyze existing data and historical context to provide insights into species suitability and inform future management decisions.
Student Researchers: Elijah Luxbacher, Jade Holman
Faculty Supervisor: Eric Sagar
#6476: Assessing Forage Fish Biodiversity
Land'escapes
Over the past two years, we’ve collected survey data on forage fish populations around the park, but the data has not yet been fully utilized. The student will examine this dataset to identify species composition, assess habitat suitability, and develop recommendations for habitat improvements. Additionally, the project may include refining survey protocols and suggesting enhancements for future monitoring efforts.
Student Researchers: Aubrey Urbshott, Samuel Matukas
Faculty Supervisor: Eric Sagar
#6473: How Winter Climate Change Shapes Lake Trout Survival
North Hastings Community Fish Hatchery
In this project, students will examine how climate-driven changes in ice cover duration and winter water temperatures affect lake trout fry hatching, early feeding success, and survival, with particular attention to delayed spring productivity, oxygen stress, and shortened first growing seasons. Using the literature, students will assess whether altered ice and temperature regimes may be contributing to increased fry mortality in Hastings County and whether restoration interventions are warranted. Students will also identify potential strategies to restore or buffer historical thermal conditions in spawning beds, including required permissions and regulatory considerations.
Student Researchers: Abbey Dubecki, Evan Miller, Laura-Jade Cohan, Mary Middleton
Faculty Supervisor: Eric Sagar
#6470: Community Farmland Governance
Farms at Work
This project is an environmental scan of community farmland projects that will provide baseline information needed by Farms at Work, a local agricultural charity. It will help to inform our work in developing one or more Community Farms in the Peterborough region with the goal of improving access by new farmers to farmland, shared infrastructure and supportive educational opportunities.
Student Researchers: Abbey Laurin, Katherine Gibson
Faculty Supervisor: Eric Sagar
#6469: Micro-recycling and Community Makerspaces: Assessing Feasibility and Circular Economy Opportunities for Peterborough
Clean Up Peterborough
This project will examine the feasibility, benefits, and community opportunities associated with developing a micro-recycling hub and complementary makerspace on hard-to-recycle plastics in Peterborough. Students will explore best practices from across Canada and internationally, assess environmental and economic opportunities, and identify how community-scale recycling and makerspaces can support circular economy goals. The research will also evaluate how existing community assets, local partnerships, and emerging circular initiatives could connect to such a hub. Findings will support future planning, community engagement, and potential funding applications for Clean Up Peterborough as it expands its circular economy programming.
Student Researchers: Eryn Kostash, Myah Sandiland
Faculty Supervisor: Eric Sagar
#6461: Restoring Resilience - Growing Goodrich-Loomis
Lower Trent Conservation
This project will allow Lower Trent Conservation (LTC) to take initial steps and develop a solid plan to restore tallgrass prairie at Goodrich-Loomis Conservation Area. We require assistance researching the planning, preparation, and public outreach components necessary for safe and successful prescribed burn operations. This site has potential to become one of the premier sites to grow and provide native seed to enhance and expand these important habitats.
Student Researchers: Cooper Pelchat, Grace Boyle, Solenne Bedard
Faculty Supervisor: Eric Sagar
#6458: Building the Foundation: Identifying Best Practices in Municipal Ecosystem Valuation
City of Peterborough
This project will lay the foundation for the City of Peterborough’s wetland and waterways valuations, identifying municipal leaders across Canada and best practices for the valuation of wetlands and waterways. This should include current approaches and considerations for assessing the value of wetlands and waterways, with consideration of the costs needed to retain ecosystem function through the restoration of existing features and/or the creation of alternative features.
Student Researchers: Ben Rose, Owen Caron
Faculty Supervisor: Eric Sagar
#6457: An Assessment of the Stewardship Options for the Needler's Mill Lands and former Community Arena in Millbrook, Township of Cavan-Monaghan
Township of Cavan-Monaghan
Located in the village of Millbrook, beside the Baxter Creek and its dam is a parcel of municipal land occupied by the Village's historic Needler's Mill, a parking lot and a former Community Arena now deemed structurally unsafe. The Arena is currently being demolished and public park options are being considered. For the benefit of community residents and Council, this project is to provide “in perpetuity” stewardship options for the transformation of the area into a multi use municipal park tentatively named Needler's Common Town Square. Using case studies from Canada and the U.S., the researcher will examine models of urban park stewardship led by not-for-profit groups. The project will also outline the steps for establishing a “Friends of Needler’s Park/Commons/Square” organization, including collaboration with municipal staff and residents through a 25-year stewardship plan. Additionally, it will assess the benefits and costs of not-for-profit status, such as access to fundraising, donations, and grants.
Student Researchers: Amber Hurst, Jaden Hearns
Faculty Supervisor: Eric Sagar
#6454: Beyond the Bin: Exploring Waste Diversion Strategies to Inform Opportunities in Selwyn Township
Township of Selwyn
Through the completion of a waste audit, Selwyn Township has identified several categories of waste that are not currently being diverted from our landfill. This includes items like bulky plastics, textiles, carpet, and some construction and demolition waste. The Township is looking for assistance in investigating best practices and opportunities that exist for municipalities to divert and recycle these materials.
Student Researchers: Alexander Cunha, Lingbo Meng
Faculty Supervisor: Eric Sagar
#6451: From Soil to Policy: Agricultural Carbon Sequestration and Accounting in Practice
Trent University Sustainability Office
The student(s) undertaking this project will join a meaningful research project focused on advancing sustainable agriculture and climate solutions. As an undergraduate researcher, you will examine research on carbon sequestration in cultivated soils, with an emphasis on regenerative and low-tillage practices, and explore the evolving science behind agricultural carbon accounting. Your primary task will be to conduct an in-depth literature review on how farmland ecosystems store and reduce greenhouse gases, and how these benefits are measured. Additionally, you'll reflect on how these findings can inform future landscape management at Trent, contributing to broader efforts to reduce carbon impacts.
Student Researchers: Adam Wright, Kayla Homer
Faculty Supervisor: Eric Sagar
#6450: Temperate Forest Carbon Compass: Literature Review for Measurement and Practice
Trent University Sustainability Office
The student(s) undertaking this project will join our research team to explore the vital role of forests in mitigating climate change. As an undergraduate researcher, you will focus on surveying literature related to carbon storage and sequestration in temperate forests, including soil carbon dynamics and monitoring techniques. This project offers a unique opportunity to deepen your understanding of ecosystem-based climate solutions and contribute to innovative strategies for reducing greenhouse gases. Additionally, you'll reflect on how these findings can inform future landscape management efforts, gaining valuable experience in environmental research and policy.
Student Researchers: Keirah Thompson, Sarah Kilby
Faculty Supervisor: Eric Sagar
#6386: Understanding and Addressing Illegal Dumping: A Case Study of Ashburnham Memorial Park
Asburnham Memorial Stewardship Group (AMSG)
The purpose of this project is to understand the psychological and social factors that contribute to illegal dumping in small towns, using Ashburnham Memorial Park as a case study. By examining why individuals engage in this behaviour and exploring effective strategies used elsewhere to reduce dumping, the project aims to identify practical, community-based solutions. The findings will support cleaner public spaces, enhance community pride, reduce municipal cleanup costs, and promote environmental stewardship.
Student Researcher: Meghan Elliott
Faculty Supervisor: Stephen Hill
#6315: Le Voyageur Outdoor Products - Biological Assessments to Support the Need for a New Improved Insect Protection Garment
Le Voyageur Outdoor Products
Le Voyageur Outdoor Products has designed and manufactured a new, unique and highly effective insect protection garment called “The Tick Suit”. In order to support the marketing a comprehensive and persuasive biological information package needs to be developed to highlight the advantages of the suit. This project focusses on the collection of biological facts, such as tick, mosquito and blackfly anatomy and how their physical strengths and weaknesses can be countered and controlled by the features of the tick suit.
Student Researchers: Ellise Morgan, Emily Deck, Jack Bell, Kylie Moore
Faculty Supervisor: Eric Sagar
#6431: Designing Landscapes for Water and Wildlife
Otonabee College
We are looking for a student to support an exciting ecological design project focused on enhancing biodiversity and managing seasonal water flow in a naturalized space on campus. The student will be responsible for mapping the existing topographic features of the space. This mapping work will help inform landscaping recommendations that support controlled seasonal flooding and create conditions that attract and sustain a diversity of native plant and animal species. This is a great opportunity for a student interested in ecology, geography, environmental science, or landscape design to gain hands-on experience in applied research and ecological planning. The student will work closely with faculty and other project partners and may have opportunities to contribute ideas to the final landscape plan.
Student Researcher: Natalie Caines
Faculty Supervisor: Autumn Watkinson
#6437: Trends in Turtle Populations in Ontario’s Highlands
The Land Between
This project will analyze seven years of community-science turtle data to assess population health, age and sex ratios, and species trends along highly traveled corridors in Ontario’s Highlands. By using mileage as a proxy for search effort, the study will normalize observations and strengthen the reliability of population trend estimates. The work will involve data cleaning, statistical analysis, and comprehensive reporting, with implications that extend beyond ecology to land-use and infrastructure planning. Results will help guide road management decisions, highlight priority areas for mitigation, and provide evidence to support the installation of ecopassages and other protective measures. Ultimately, the project will generate critical insights into how development impacts turtle populations and inform practical solutions to reduce mortality and safeguard species at risk.
Student Researcher: Karmin McDonald
Faculty Supervisor: Tom Whillans
#6436: Assessing Critical Wetland Needs For Overwintering Success for Snapping Turtles
The Land Between
This project will assess wetlands in Ontario’s Highlands to determine their role in supporting the overwintering needs of snapping turtles, a species at risk. Using 8 km grid ranges, the approximate limits of snapping turtle travel, the project will quantify wetland basin availability on average across various “districts” and then evaluate their suitability for overwintering through remote sensing, to understand the average number of potential sites if adaptation to new areas is required due to wetland losses. Statistical analyses will then be applied to measure the significance of wetland distribution and quality to overwintering success. The results will provide critical insight into habitat requirements, and guide land-use planning, as well as policies to protect overwintering habitats.
Student Researcher: Esme Batchelor
Faculty Supervisor: Tom Whillans
Forensic Science
#6399: Exploring the Viability of a Cash-First Food Bank Model in Kawartha Lakes
Kawartha Lakes Food Source
This research project explores the shift seen in some regions, such as the West Coast of Canada, where food banks are moving away from accepting non-perishable food donations in favour of cash contributions. The goal is to assess whether this cash-first model—intended to improve access to healthier food could be effective in the City of Kawartha Lakes. The study will examine local donation patterns, operational capacity, and community attitudes toward cash-based giving. Findings will help determine what infrastructure, outreach, and policy changes would be required to successfully implement a similar model in this rural context.
Student Researcher: Caity McConnell
Faculty Supervisor: Mira Kapetanovic
#6402: Deterring Sexual Crimes
Elizabeth Fry Society
Deterring sexual crimes takes a multifaceted approach including strong legal frameworks, clear definitions of consent, penalties, support systems, victim impact, mental health, technology, addiction, education, reducing stigma, addressing underlying causes, healthy relationships, and a strong focus on prevention of future offences. There are very few programs to assist anyone with urges to commit sexual based offences against adults or children. The reality is it’s extremely stigmatized, so those struggling are afraid to come forward. Society as a whole should be encouraged to face this epidemic head-on to offer offenders a better understanding of their behaviours and offer substantial support before crimes are committed, thus protecting future victims of sexual crimes.
Student Researcher: Emily Haefling
Faculty Supervisor: Mira Kapetanovic
#6404: “Why NOT Policing”? Understanding Barriers to Recruitment of Service-Driven Youth
Barrie Police Service
Despite a continued need for dedicated and community-minded individuals in policing, many young people who are drawn to helping professions such as social work, nursing, or mental health services are actively choosing careers outside of law enforcement. This research project seeks to understand the underlying reasons why service driven youth are not considering policing as a viable career path. The student undertaking this project will explore the perceptions, misperceptions, and structural deterrents to joining the police profession, aiming to generate data-driven insights that will inform and transform recruitment strategies. The goal is to reshape how policing is “sold” to prospective candidates by increasing transparency about the realities of the job, highlighting its community impact, and addressing concerns around culture, values, and public trust. Ultimately, the findings will support a recruitment narrative that better aligns with the motivations of a new generation committed to public service and social betterment.
Student Researcher: Matthew Makaroff
Faculty Supervisor: Mira Kapetanovic
#6417: Addressing Stigma: Barriers to Housing and Re-entry for Justice-Involved Individuals
Human Service and Justice Coordinating Committee (HSJCC)
This student undertaking this project will explore how stigma related to housing insecurity, interactions with the justice system impacts individuals’ ability to access stable housing and reintegrate into the community. It aims to identify key sources of stigma, from landlords, employers, service providers, and the broader public, and develop practical, evidence-based resources to reduce these barriers.
Student Researcher: Kayla Cira
Faculty Supervisor: Mira Kapetanovic
#6418: Shifting Models of Support – Exploring the Transition from CTS to HART in HKPR
Human Service and Justice Coordinating Committee (HSJCC)
This project examines the perceptions of Ontario’s recent shift from Consumption and Treatment Services (CTS) to the emerging Homelessness and Addiction Recovery Treatment (HART) Hub model. In December 2024, the Ontario government passed legislation that led to the closure of 10 supervised consumption sites (SCS) across the province by March 31, 2025. To replace these services, the government announced the opening of HART Hubs. Unlike CTS sites, HART Hubs do not provide supervised drug consumption; instead, they focus on connecting individuals with recovery, treatment, and mental health supports. The student undertaking this project will conduct interviews and surveys with service providers and explore how this transition is perceived, the anticipated benefits and challenges, and its broader impact on service delivery. By comparing CTS, HART, and other harm-reduction approaches, such as physician-led models in Timmins and Paramedics in Lindsay, the project aims to evaluate how these models address the needs of people in the HKPR region.
Student Researcher: Rio Flanagan
Faculty Supervisor: Mira Kapetanovic
#6419: A Regional and National Review of Alternatives to Criminal Charges
Human Service and Justice Coordinating Committee (HSJCC)
This project explores the growing use of Pre-Charge Diversion and informal police-led aversion practices as alternatives to traditional legal processes. With a focus on the HKPR region, the research will investigate how law enforcement agencies determine when diversion is appropriate, and how restorative outcomes are shaped to reduce harm to the victim, the community, and the accused. The project will also examine diversion and aversion models across Canada to identify best practices that enhance community safety, reduce recidivism, and support vulnerable populations through non-punitive pathways.
Student Researcher: Rylin Wormington
Faculty Supervisor: Mira Kapetanovic
#6420: Developing an Evaluation Framework for the Outreach LINK Program
One City Peterborough
The Outreach LINK program provides case management and peer-led support to individuals experiencing unsheltered homelessness in Peterborough, with a focus on those who are underserved by existing services. The student undertaking this project will support the development of an evaluation framework to guide future assessments of the program’s effectiveness. Collaborating with staff, the project will identify meaningful outcomes, evaluation tools, and key indicators.
Student Researcher: Abby Auger
Faculty Supervisor: Mira Kapetanovic
#6425: Neurodivergence in the Criminal Legal System
John Howard Society of Ontario
The project investigates how ADHD, Autism, and other forms of neurodivergence intersect with involvement in the criminal legal system, focusing on pathways to incarceration and barriers to fair treatment. The goal is to inform policy and practice that promote equitable and appropriate treatment, reduce recidivism and support individuals with neurodivergence.
Student Researcher: Alex Hanlan
Faculty Supervisor: Mira Kapetanovic
#6426: Acquired & Traumatic Brain Injury in the Criminal Legal System
John Howard Society of Ontario
This project should explore the intersections between Acquired Brain Injury (ABI), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), and involvement in the criminal legal system, examining how cognitive and behavioral impacts contribute to justice system contact. The goal is to identify gaps in support, inform policy, and promote rehabilitative approaches that reduce incarceration and improve outcomes for people with brain injuries.
Student Researcher: Kayley Thomas
Faculty Supervisor: Mira Kapetanovic
#6427: Sexual Violence Prevention and Response: International and Domestic Student Perspectives
Consent at Trent
This project builds on a previously completed community-based research project (#6309) that explored student perceptions on sexual and gender-based violence, with a specific focus on how such violence is framed in pop culture, social media, and through prevailing social norms. Building on that, this project focuses on the diverse perceptions of sexual and gender-based violence among international and domestic students in post-secondary institutions. The aim is to better understand how factors such as culture and identity influence how students from different communities perceive sexual and gender-based violence. By examining the differences in how international and domestic students perceive these issues, this research will shed light on gaps in understanding and support systems across diverse student populations.
Student Researcher: Ellianna Wilson
Faculty Supervisor: Mira Kapetanovic
Gender & Social Justice
#6381: Understanding Barriers to Healthcare Access for Immigrants, Refugees and other Newcomers in Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton and Their Impact on Health Outcomes
Kawartha Lakes Haliburton Ontario Health Team
The Kawartha Lakes Haliburton Ontario Health Team (KLH OHT) is committed to advancing equitable, accessible, and person-centered care for all residents within our rural region. As part of our equity mandate, we are seeking to better understand the experiences and health trajectories of immigrants, refugees, and newcomers in our rural region. Despite arriving in Canada in relatively good health, national and international research shows that this population often experiences a decline in physical and mental health within two years, due in part to barriers in accessing care and broader social determinants. Early community engagement suggests similar challenges exist locally, but data specific to Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton is limited. This project will explore those barriers, examine their impact on health outcomes, and provide evidence-based recommendations to improve equitable access to healthcare services.
Student Researcher: Success Odia
Faculty Supervisory: Ellen Buck-McFadyen
#6398: Understanding Food Bank Demand and Supply Trends in Kawartha Lakes
Kawartha Lakes Food Source
This project aims to examine the growing gap between food bank demand and available donations in the City of Kawartha Lakes. By analyzing data from local food banks, the study will validate trends showing increased community need alongside a decline in food donations. The research will also highlight the unique challenges rural food banks face, such as limited access to large corporate donors. Findings will support evidence-based decision-making for future fundraising, resource planning, and advocacy to better serve food-insecure residents in the region.
Student Researcher: Stevie Lanigan
Faculty Supervisor: Kelly McGuire & May Chazan
History
#6445: Remembering British Home Children in Manvers Township
Manvers Historical Society
Between the 1860s and 1930s, more than 100,000 children from Britain were sent to Canada by charitable organizations such as Barnardo’s, Fegan Homes, and the Middlemore Homes. These children—often orphans or from poor families—were promised a better life overseas. This research aims to uncover the history of British Home Children in Manvers Township, where over 100 children are believed to have been placed. Researchers will be tasked with describing the broader home children scheme in Canada. Through access to archival records of census, ship logs, and home records Research and verify the names and lives of Home Children placed in Manvers Township, in the City of Kawartha Lakes.
Student Researcher: Alyssa Dormiedy, Bobby Muir, Piper Glenn
Faculty Supervisor: Chris Dummitt
Math
#6487: A Comparative Analysis of Neural Network Therapy
Canadian Family Health Counselling
This community-based research project examines the connection between neurobiological processes influenced by Neural Network Therapy® (NNT) and sustained improvements in mental health and well-being. Building on findings from previous CBR Project #5024, Exploring the Effectiveness of Neural Network Therapy, the study will analyze existing research to understand why NNT may produce longer-lasting outcomes than traditional talk therapy. The project may include quantitative and comparative analysis of existing data and research findings.
Student Researcher: Stephen He
Faculty Supervisor: David Reigert
Masters of Management
#6439: Improving Paramedic Service Delivery Through KPI Tracking
District of Timiskaming Social Services Administration Board (DTSSAB)
We aim to improve our evidence-informed decision-making by better leveraging data and analytics to enhance the delivery of paramedic services in the district. This project will help identify gaps in our current data and guide the development of tools to support more effective decisions. A key goal is to understand how other small paramedic services track a variety of key performance indicators (KPIs). By exploring different KPIs, we hope to identify which ones we are already tracking and which ones we could begin to monitor.
Student Researchers: Ali Ahad Mansur, Michael Acquah, Mohammed Mubarik, Nurea Meherin, Obakore Obukohwo
Faculty Supervisor: Rob Elkington
#6440: Identifying KPIs for Enhanced Paramedic Service Delivery
District of Timiskaming Social Services Administration Board (DTSSAB)
We aim to improve our evidence-informed decision-making by better leveraging data and analytics to enhance the delivery of paramedic services in the district. This project will help identify gaps in our current data and guide the development of tools to support more effective decisions. A key goal is to understand how other small paramedic services track a variety of key performance indicators (KPIs). By exploring different KPIs, we hope to identify which ones we are already tracking and which ones we could begin to monitor.
Student Researchers: Pedro Marin, Rizwana Ferdous, Shiru Fan, Swakhar Ghosh, Yan Wang
Faculty Supervisor: Rob Elkington
#6441: Enhancing Paramedic Service Delivery with KPI Insights
District of Timiskaming Social Services Administration Board (DTSSAB)
We aim to improve our evidence-informed decision-making by better leveraging data and analytics to enhance the delivery of paramedic services in the district. This project will help identify gaps in our current data and guide the development of tools to support more effective decisions. A key goal is to understand how other small paramedic services track a variety of key performance indicators (KPIs). By exploring different KPIs, we hope to identify which ones we are already tracking and which ones we could begin to monitor.
Student Researchers: Adenike Logo, Hemanth Prakash Gnanaprakasam, Irene Gorni, Talal Shakeel, Tien Tieu
Faculty Supervisor: Rob Elkington
Media Studies
#6314: Le Voyageur Outdoor Products - Market Analysis of a New Insect Protection Garment
Le Voyageur Outdoor Products
This company has designed and manufactured a new, unique and highly effective insect protection garment called “The Tick Suit”. Comprehensive market analysis of the potential marketability of this suit needs to be completed to assist this inventor and his manufacturing team to determine the best path moving forward for website design, and advertisement to specific target corporations, universities, militaries, government bodies etc. Although some market analysis has been done by this inventor, much more needs to be done.
Student Researcher: Alixandrah Lonsdale
Faculty Supervisor: Liam Mitchell
Policing & Community Wellbeing
#6475: Migratory Homelessness Literature Review
Back Door Mission
It is well understood that some homeless individuals will migrate between geographic areas, services, and even cities. However, the extent to which this occurs and why is a complex question without substantial data or research to quantify the patterns. We would like to perform an in depth literature review on the existing research pertaining to migratory homelessness, particularly focusing on the overall percentages, frequency, and reasons why. Through collating the existing information, we would like to know if there is somewhat of a consensus or trend in homelessness migration patterns, or a debate amongst scholars and experts.
Student Researchers: Aidan Booker, Gerald Manansala, Hope Carrol, Sarah Hickey
Faculty Supervisor: Nick Cristiano
#6453: Understanding Youth Drug Use: A Literature review of consumption methods and supervised services
Canadian Students for Sensible Drug Policy
This project is a literature review examining how young people use drugs, with a specific focus on their preferred methods of consumption. It will explore the use of supervised consumption services by youth and the barriers they face in accessing these resources. By synthesizing existing literature, this project aims to address a gap in our understanding of youth-specific harm reduction needs. The findings will be used to inform and improve harm reduction policies and support services tailored for young people.
Student Researchers: Jeevika Selvakumar, Kaleb Solomon, Mishaal Walji, Olivia Stone, Tesfaya Kameka
Faculty Supervisor: Nick Cristiano
Political Studies
#6460: Engaging Young Voters: A Literature Review on Youth Electoral Participation in City of Peterborough
City of Peterborough
This project will review existing research on youth voter turnout in Canada to better understand the participation gap in younger voters. National data shows that turnout among voters aged 18-24 remains nearly 30 percent lower than that of voters aged 65-74, with recent data suggesting a possible downward trend. Using these findings, the project will identify evidence-based strategies that could help increase youth participation in the municipal election on October 26, 2026. The goal is to provide practical recommendations for local government, educators, and community groups.
Student Researcher: Jonathan Forbes
Faculty Supervisor: Devin Penner
Philosophy
#6403: Identification and Dissemination of Resarch-Engaged Teaching Materials in Support of SIM-Related International Education
Trent School of Business
The student undertaking this project will work as part of a research team to identify teaching resources (videos, activities, demonstrations, guides) relevant for the teaching of social issues in business and management. This will include teaching in the following areas: individual ethical decision-making; leadership ethics; ethics in corporate governance; organizational level ethics; ethics of capitalism(s); sustainability and regenerative business. The work will be disseminated to professors of business and management in business schools around the world. It therefore has strong potential to influence the teaching and learning of social issues in management (business ethics) around the world.
Student Researcher: Kasonde Mutale
Faculty Supervisor: Sheldence Simola
Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems
#6396: Supporting Farmland Access in the Kawarthas
Kawartha Land Trust
The purpose of this project is to gauge the perspectives and interests of landowners in agricultural land trusts. Specifically to explore their perspectives on some of the following: Perceptions of the threat to local farmers and farmland; Their perceptions of ecological and local food focused farming; Their reaction to existing agricultural land trust materials (questions, concerns, interest); Explore the conditions under which landowners would be willing to participate in an agricultural land trust program.
Student Researcher: Erika Inglis
Faculty Supervisor: Karen Thompson & Daniel Amoak
Sociology
#6283: Peterborough Youth Services (PYS) Community Support Team (CST) Program Evaluation
Peterborough Youth Services
Over the past 3 years, many of the Peterborough Youth Services (PYS) Child Youth Mental Health (CYMH) programs, services and processes have undergone comprehensive program reviews resulting in the introduction of new services and interventions, greater clarity of language and process definitions, program/service descriptions, service referral screeners and communication tools such as brochures and web-based media. PYS is now at the point of needing to implement program and outcome evaluation processes to ensure and maintain quality service and desired outcomes. The student undertaking this project will evaluate the Community Support Team (CST) program, which provides community-based services to moderate to high-risk youth.
Student Researcher: Abigail Moffatt
Faculty Supervisor: Beth Torrens
#6316: Addressing Barriers to Volunteerism in Peterborough
Volunteer Peterborough
Volunteer Peterborough aims to bring together dedicated community members and organizations seeking volunteer supports. In order to better attract and serve both volunteers and organizations, we need to better understand why people do, or do not, volunteer. By identifying the barriers facing those who might otherwise volunteer, we aim to develop strategies to alleviate barriers in hopes of better attracting and retaining much-needed volunteer supports for organizations in our community. The student undertaking this project will help identify barriers that may deter or prevent someone from volunteering, and will begin to identify possible solutions to alleviate barriers.
Student Researcher: Anna Hykawy
Faculty Supervisor: Deborah White
#6430: Public Opinion Survey on Domestic Violence
Peterborough Domestic Abuse Network (PDAN)
This project aims to address Recommendation 24 from the Renfrew Coroner's Inquest by conducting an annual public opinion survey within Peterborough City and County. The survey will gather demographic information, including residence location, and use standardized questions to assess public attitudes toward domestic violence/intimate partner violence. The findings will inform the revision and strengthening of public education materials, incorporating feedback from communities, experts, and international best practices. By identifying gaps, needs, and priorities in public education and outreach, this project will enhance the effectiveness of PDAN's initiatives providing valuable local data to support the goal of ending gender-based violence in the community.
Student Researcher: Cloie Hanlon
Faculty Supervisor: Stephanie Ehret
