Starting a research club at your school, affiliated with the International Research Olympiad (IRO), is a great way to build something lasting. This guide walks through how to set up the club, what IRO affiliation gives you, and how to get it off the ground.
What is the International Research Olympiad (IRO)?
The IRO is a global research competition that tests critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and science communication. Unlike subject-specific science olympiads, it focuses on the research process itself and on applying knowledge to real-world problems. It draws students from over 45 countries.
Affiliating your club with the IRO gives you access to funding, a network of student researchers, and ready-made educational materials to run your meetings.
Why start an IRO-affiliated research club?
- Leadership: Founding and running a club builds real leadership experience and leaves a mark at your school. As the founder, you set the direction, get other students into research, and open doors to mentors and professionals.
- Resources: The IRO supports affiliated clubs with a $100 base grant to get started, plus the chance to apply for up to $1,000 in additional funding. You also get social media templates, meeting slideshows, and a curriculum. See the full Research Club Handbook.
- Network: Affiliation connects your club to a global community of student researchers, with room to collaborate, swap ideas, and enter international competitions.
- Skills: Running a club and competing in the IRO sharpens problem-solving, data analysis, project management, and science communication, all of which carry over to college and any career.
How to start a research club at your school
Step 1: Learn your school’s process
Start by finding out how your school approves new clubs. Usually that means some paperwork, a faculty sponsor, and founding documents like club bylaws. If you need a sponsor, ask a teacher who’s into research or who has supported student organizations before.
Tip: If you’re not sure of the steps, ask a teacher you trust or your principal. Some schools are relaxed about it, others want a more formal process.
Step 2: Build a core team
Before you launch, get a small group of committed students together. These founding members will help plan activities, recruit, and keep the club running.
Tip: Look for students who are reliable, into science, and willing to take on a role. They’re what keeps the club going.
Step 3: Affiliate with the IRO
Affiliating unlocks the funding and resources above. To do it, fill out the IRO Club Affiliation Form, which registers your club and gives you access to the support available.
Learn more about the IRO and the 2024 winners.
Step 4: Plan your first meeting
Once you’re registered and affiliated, plan the first meeting. Use it to introduce the club’s mission, lay out upcoming activities, and start recruiting. The IRO’s meeting slideshows and templates make this easier.
Tip: Make the first meeting hands-on with an interactive activity or a mini research project. It gives potential members a real sense of the club and a reason to join.
Step 5: Promote the club
Getting members means getting the word out. Use social media, school newsletters, posters, and plain word of mouth. The IRO provides social media templates and promotional materials to help.
Tip: Co-host events with other school clubs. It widens your reach and builds your presence at school.
Getting started
An IRO-affiliated research club is a rewarding thing to build, from the leadership experience to the resources you get. Follow the steps above and you can set up a club that has a real impact at your school.
The IRO supports you throughout, whether you’re working through school procedures, affiliating, or planning your first meeting. To get going, fill out the IRO Club Affiliation Form, and check the full Research Club Handbook for templates and resources.
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