Omni Search

Research Consultations

Health Sciences research consultations are intended for students, researchers and clinicians who have a well-defined research question and have already conducted preliminary searching in an academic database.

Upper level of the learning commons

Before you Book

  • Book Early: Librarians may not be able to accommodate tight deadlines.
  • Come prepared: You’ll need the items in the checklist below before scheduling your appointment.
  • New to literature searching? Information Services can help you get started.

Expandable List

If your research consultation involves building a search strategy we ask that you come prepared. Please have the following ready when you book:

  • Your research question or research protocol
  • Full citations for 2-3 articles relevant to your research (if available)
  • A table of your key concepts with potential search terms
  • A personal account in the database you plan on searching
  • An initial search conducted in the database with your search history saved

If you need help preparing for a consultation, the following resources are available:

  • A scheduled 30-60 minute meeting with a librarian
  • All research consultations will be conducted online using Zoom
  • The librarian will provide you with an online meeting invitation for your consultation once you agree on a mutually convenient time
  • Critically review your search strategy
  • Advise on database selection
  • Provide guidance on searching grey literature
  • Recommend methods for documenting your search strategy and managing your citations
  • Refer you to other resources to support your research (e.g. quality assessment tools)
  • Provide advice on publishing
  • Help measure your research impact through author identifiers and research metrics

What A Librarian Cannot Do

  • Conduct your search for you
  • Accommodate users who have not adequately prepared for their consultation