Top 8 Biotech Internships for High School Students

Biotechnology, a field at the intersection of biology and technology, is rapidly advancing and has become a hotbed for innovation. For high school students with a passion for life sciences and a desire to explore the cutting-edge world of biotech, internships offer a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience and insight into this dynamic field. Here, we will explore some of the top biotech internships available for high school students:

#1 Amgen Scholars Program

The Amgen Scholars Program provides high school students with the chance to work as a research assistant alongside leading scientists at top institutions such as MIT and Stanford. This immersive experience allows students to engage in hands-on research projects, learning advanced lab techniques and contributing to real-world scientific discoveries. The Amgen Scholars Program not only fosters scientific knowledge but also encourages collaboration and networking among participants, laying the foundation for future success in the biotech industry.

#2 Broad Summer Scholars Program

The Broad Summer Scholars Program is offered by the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard. This program exposes high school students to genomics and computational biology, two critical areas in modern biotechnology. Participants work on projects that leverage big data and cutting-edge technologies to unravel the complexities of the human genome. The Broad Summer Scholars Program provides a unique blend of laboratory research and computational analysis, equipping students with skills that are increasingly vital in the rapidly evolving field of biotech.

#3 Biogen Community Lab High School Internship

For those interested in the intersection of biotechnology and entrepreneurship, the Biogen Community Lab High School Internship offers a distinctive biotech intern experience. Biogen, a leading biopharmaceutical company, provides students with the opportunity to work on projects related to drug discovery and development. This internship not only exposes students to the scientific aspects of biotech but also provides insights into the business side of the industry. Participants gain a holistic understanding of the biotech ecosystem, preparing them for diverse roles in the field.

#4 Jackson Laboratory Summer Student Program

The Jackson Laboratory Summer Student Program is another outstanding internship option for high school students interested in genetics and mouse-based research. With locations in Bar Harbor, Maine, and Farmington, Connecticut, this program allows students to work alongside world-renowned scientists conducting research in areas such as cancer biology, neurobiology, and aging. The hands-on experience with cutting-edge technologies and methodologies in mouse genetics provides a solid foundation for students aspiring to pursue careers in biotech research.

#5 US Department of Energy (DOE) Student Programs – Idaho National Laboratory

Idaho National Laboratory (INL) offers paid STEM internships to high school students, connecting them with mentors to collaboratively devise inventive solutions for real-world projects. The INL internship program involves hands-on lab work alongside workshops and skill-building sessions. Note that there are 17 U.S. Department of Energy Laboratories in total, each of them offering different internship programs. Please see the U.S. DOE website or the Student Volunteer Programs to learn more.

#6 Monell Science Apprenticeship Program

This program is available to high school students and undergraduates with a passion for science and research residing in the greater Philadelphia, Pennsylvania area. It is also a paid summer program and aims to foster interest in biomedical science and careers in medicine, particularly among underrepresented groups such as racial and ethnic minorities, females, and those facing economic challenges. Participants engage in research projects under the guidance of Monell scientists, culminating in the presentation of their findings at a public conference. The program also incorporates various enrichment activities focused on honing skills like public speaking, written communication, and ethical considerations.

#7 Rockefeller University Summer Science Research Program (SSRP)

The Rockefeller University Summer Science Research Program (SSRP) offers a 7-week opportunity for high school juniors and seniors to engage in mentored research. Operating in groups of eight to ten students, participants delve into various research tracks, including RNA virus discovery, coronavirus immune response, and evolutionary behavior in fruit flies. The program involves 35 hours of weekly research, complemented by core sessions that enhance experimental understanding and scientific reasoning.

#8 Quest Student Research Institute Summer Internship

Quest Student Research Institute offers a paid internship to students with family income at or below the federal poverty level, with 100% scholarships covering tuition and registration fees. The selection process is merit-based, considering diversity, and recommendations are sent to professors for final decisions. Computational Science projects delve into molecular modeling and drug design methods for biological and medicinal applications.

Next Steps with Polygence

The top biotech internships mentioned provide a glimpse into the myriad opportunities available, ranging from genomics and drug discovery to entrepreneurship and mouse genetics. These experiences not only impart valuable skills and knowledge but also inspire the next generation of biotechnologists to contribute to the ongoing advancements that shape the future of healthcare and technology. For high school students with a passion for science, these internships serve as a gateway to a world of endless possibilities in the dynamic and ever-evolving field of biotechnology. 

In addition to these specific programs, high school students can explore opportunities offered by local universities, biomedical research institutions, and biotech companies. Polygence also opens the door to numerous biotech project opportunities through a curated list of exceptional mentors. These mentors provide a wealth of knowledge and guidance, offering students the chance to engage in exciting and impactful biotechnology projects. The platform serves as a bridge connecting eager learners with experienced professionals in the field, fostering a collaborative environment for exploration and skill development in the realm of biotechnology.