This innovative programme aims to provide existing or aspiring research assistants with enhanced skills to support the work of principal investigators and their research teams.  Currently, many graduates and non-graduates enter the field of research assistantship but have to build practical skills on the job. While this experiential learning is critical, the new recruits take time to acquire all the critical competencies. Thus, research teams may lose valuable time in training and basic skills development. This programme serves as pre-service training and in-service staff development.