This study examined organizational practices impacting research assistants (RAs) at Kwantlen Polytechnic University (Kwantlen), identifying issues and discovering optimal ways to address concerns, increase their connection to the organization, and maximize their contributions, enabling Kwantlen to move forward as an institution that encourages faculty and student research. Using qualitative action research methodology, I invited RAs and researchers who employed RAs to examine how a new, small polytechnic university with a teaching focus could maximize the potential of undergraduate student RAs. I engaged 15 RAs in two focus groups and five researching faculty who employed RAs in a third focus group, in addition to interviewing three researchers individually. Together, we identified issues and explored possibilities for improvement, including comprehensive recruiting, hiring and training practices, and a focus on valuing the university‟s RAs. This led to a recommendation that the role of the Office of Research and Scholarship be expanded.
