Chemistry Internships for High School Students

Ready to turn your love for chemistry into a summer adventure? Look no further! In this blog post, we've rounded up the coolest chemistry internships and summer programs just for you. Imagine getting hands-on with molecules, working side-by-side with real scientists, and unlocking the secrets of chemical reactions. We've gathered 19 of the top chemistry internships for high school students that will fuel your curiosity and show you the ropes of cutting-edge research. If you're a high schooler eager to dive into the world of chemistry, join us on this journey to discover the perfect internship or summer program that could kickstart your science dreams!

Benefits of Chemistry Internships for High School Students

Internships in chemistry offer a wealth of benefits for high school students aspiring to become chemists. Firstly, these internships provide a practical bridge between theoretical classroom knowledge and real-world applications. Engaging in hands-on experiments and research projects allows students to witness the principles of chemistry in action, fostering a deeper appreciation for the subject. 

Secondly, chemistry internships expose students to diverse areas within the field, including organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, biochemistry, and analytical chemistry. This exposure helps students identify their specific interests and potentially guides them toward specialized career paths or academic pursuits within the broader realm of chemistry.

Through chemistry internships, high school students can gain valuable skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, scientific communication, teamwork, and time management. Let’s jump into where you can learn these skills!

Top Chemistry Internships and Programs for High School Students

1. American Chemical Society (ACS) Project SEED

• Location: Nationwide (United States)

• Stipend: $4,000

• Deadline: April 2024

• Description: The American Chemical Society's Project SEED offers economically disadvantaged high school students the opportunity to participate in a summer research project in chemistry. The program provides students with hands-on laboratory experience, exposure to scientific research, and mentorship from experienced chemists. Stipends are available to support student participation, allowing them to engage in research without financial barriers..

2. National Institute of Health’s High School Summer Internship Program (HS SIP)

• Location: National Institutes of Health (NIH)

• Cost: Free - Stipends provided

• Deadline: February 16, 2024

• Description: The High School Summer Internship Program at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) provides high school students with a unique opportunity to work alongside leading scientists on cutting-edge research projects. Participants gain insight into a wide range of scientific disciplines, including chemistry, and actively contribute to ongoing research. Stipends are provided to support students during their apprenticeship.

3. MIT’s Research Science Institute (RSI)

• Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts

• Cost: Free

• Deadline: December 13, 2023

• Description: RSI, hosted at MIT, is a highly competitive program that immerses high school students in the world of scientific research. Over six weeks, RSI participants are exposed to a multitude of scientific disciplines, including chemistry. The heart of RSI lies in the hands-on research opportunities, where students have the chance to work alongside leading scientists and engage in cutting-edge projects. The program also fosters a sense of community and intellectual growth, where students from diverse backgrounds come together to share their passion for science.

4. California Academy of Sciences Careers in Science (CiS) Intern Program

• Location: San Francisco, CA

• Cost: Free

• Deadline: April 5, 2024

• Description: The California Academy of Sciences Careers in Science (CiS) Intern Program is an exceptional opportunity tailored for high school students aspiring to explore careers in the sciences. Hosted by the prestigious California Academy of Sciences, this program provides a unique and immersive summer experience that transcends traditional learning boundaries. Designed to inspire a passion for scientific exploration, CiS offers high schoolers the chance to engage in real-world research projects, collaborate with experts in diverse scientific fields, and gain hands-on experience in a dynamic environment.

5. Stanford STaRS Internship Program

• Location: Palo Alto, California

• Cost: Free

• Deadline: November 3, 2023

• Description: The Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (STaRS) is a distinguished internship opportunity for high school students eager to explore the realms of biomedical research. The STaRS Internship Program offers an immersive summer experience designed to ignite curiosity and foster hands-on learning. Participants have the unique chance to engage in cutting-edge STEM education, collaborate with accomplished scientists, and gain exposure to various disciplines within the biomedical field.

6. Simons Summer Research Program

• Location: Stony Brook, New York

• Cost: Free

• Deadline: February 7, 2024

• Description: At Stony Brook University, the Simons Summer Research Program offers high school students the chance to engage in career resources in a variety of STEM fields, including chemistry. The program provides a unique environment where students collaborate with faculty mentors and their research teams, actively contributing to ongoing scientific projects. Students gain invaluable laboratory experience and research skills, providing a stepping stone for those aspiring to make a real impact in scientific research.

7. Summer Internship Program at Johns Hopkins University

• Location: Baltimore, Maryland

• Stipend: $3,000 - $5,500

• Deadline: February 1, 2024

• Description: The Summer Internship Program at Johns Hopkins University is a prestigious opportunity designed for high school students eager to delve into the realms of scientific research and discovery. Hosted by one of the world's leading institutions, this program offers a transformative summer experience that transcends traditional learning boundaries. Participants have the unique opportunity to engage in hands-on work experience, collaborate with renowned faculty, and immerse themselves in the vibrant academic community of college students at Johns Hopkins.

8. Amgen Scholars Program

• Location: Various universities worldwide

• Cost: Free

• Deadline: February 1, 2024

• Description: The Amgen Scholars Program is a prestigious global initiative that offers high school students the chance to immerse themselves in the world of scientific research, with a focus on biochemistry and molecular biology. This program spans numerous top universities worldwide and provides students with the opportunity to work closely with leading scientists on cutting-edge projects. Amgen Scholars not only gain hands-on research experience but also participate in scientific seminars and networking events, enhancing their understanding of scientific innovation and discovery. For those passionate about the life sciences and chemistry, the Amgen Scholars Program offers an unparalleled opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research and gain insight into the field.

9. Florida State University’s Young Scholars Program

• Location: Tallahassee, FL

• Cost: Free

• Deadline: February 15, 2024

• Description: Florida State University’s Young Scholars Program is a standout opportunity for high school students seeking an immersive academic experience. Hosted by Florida State University, this program offers a unique summer initiative designed to challenge and inspire intellectually curious students. Participants have the opportunity to engage in college-level coursework, collaborate with accomplished faculty, and explore various academic disciplines.

10. Bethel College Summer Science Institute

• Location: North Newton, KS

• Cost: Free

• Deadline: April 17, 2024

• Description: The Bethel College Summer Science Institute is an enriching opportunity designed for high school students passionate about delving into the world of science. This program offers an immersive and hands-on summer experience that transcends traditional classroom learning, including laboratory sessions, field trips, discussions, and lectures.

11. Bridge Undergraduate Science Jr. Program (BUGS Jr.)

• Location: Los Angeles, CA

• Stipend: $800

• Deadline: April 30, 2024

• Description: The Bridge Undergraduate Science Jr. Program is an outstanding summer research internship for junior high school students interested in exploring the realms of science. Hosted by the University of Southern California (USC), this program offers a unique summer experience designed to foster scientific curiosity and hands-on learning. Participants have the opportunity to engage in interactive science projects, collaborate with accomplished faculty, and gain exposure to diverse scientific disciplines.

12. Telluride Association Summer Seminar (TASS)

• Location: Various locations

• Cost: Free

• Deadline: January 3, 2024

• Description: TASS is not your typical science program; it's a unique academic experience that transcends specific disciplines, encouraging intellectual growth and open discussion. While TASS does not focus exclusively on chemistry, it offers students the opportunity to explore scientific research in an interdisciplinary context. TASS provides an environment where students are immersed in a residential academic community, engaging in deep conversations and seminars that go beyond textbook learning.

13. University of Michigan Math and Science Scholars

• Location: Ann Arbor, Michigan

• Cost: $1,300

• Deadline: Check the official website for the latest information

• Description: The Michigan Math and Science Scholars Program at the University of Michigan offers high school students the opportunity to engage in hands-on experiments, workshops, and discussions to encourage the next generation of researchers to develop and retain a love of mathematics and science.

14. Seminars in Modern Chemistry at Columbia University

• Location: New York, NY

• Cost: $12,449.00 per session

• Deadline: February 1, 2024 (Early Registration); March 4, 2024 (Application Deadline

• Description: Enrich your comprehension of chemistry and contemporary research methodologies with Columbia University's Pre College program in Chemistry, or the Intensive Seminars in Modern Chemistry, designed specifically for high school students. This summer initiative, available to high-achieving individuals, adopts a seminar structure. Participants engage in daily presentations, group discussions, and hands-on laboratory experiences. The program provides guidance in exploring advanced instrumental techniques including spectroscopy, chromatography, magnetic resonance, and computer simulations.

15. NYU’s Applied Research Innovations in Science and Engineering (ARISE)

• Location: New York, NY

• Cost: Free

• Deadline: March 1, 2024

• Description: NYU's Applied Research Innovations in Science and Engineering (ARISE) is a dynamic and enriching program tailored for high school students eager to get a taste of undergraduate research. ARISE offers a unique summer experience that goes beyond traditional classroom learning. This program allows aspiring young scientists to engage in hands-on research projects, gain exposure to cutting-edge technologies, and work closely with leading researchers in various scientific disciplines. ARISE aims to inspire the next generation of innovators and researchers by emphasizing practical skills, interdisciplinary collaboration, and mentorship.

16. Cornell University – Pre-college Studies

• Location: Online

• Cost: $1,750/credit

• Deadline: May 5, 2024

• Description: Cornell's pre-college studies offer high school students the opportunity to take university-level chemistry courses for college credit..

17. Emory University Pre-College Program

• Location: Atlanta, Georgia

• Cost: $3,135 - $9,646

• Deadline: 2 weeks prior to the start of the chosen section

• Description: Emory's pre-college program provides high school students with foundational knowledge in chemistry through courses including Protein Biochemistry and The Chemistry of Colors: Atoms, Compounds, and the Rainbow.

18. Rutgers University – Summer Scholars Program

• Location: New Brunswick, New Jersey

• Cost: $416.00/credit (NJ resident); $994.00/credit (non-NJ resident)

• Deadline: May 12, 2024

• Description: Designed for high-achieving high school students, the Rutgers Summer Scholars Program allows students the opportunity to study at one of the nation’s top research universities. The Summer Scholars program allows students to take a variety of university-level chemistry classes for college credit.

19. Inspiring Future Scientists through Shadowing (IFSS)

• Location: Palo Alto, CA

• Cost: Free

• Deadline: May 1, 2024

• Description: The Stanford Department of Chemistry hosts the Inspiring Future Scientists Through Shadowing (IFSS) program each summer. This program gives rising juniors and seniors in high school an opportunity to experience cutting-edge chemical research while shadowing a graduate student mentor as they work in the laboratory.

20. Research in Science and Engineering (RISE) at Boston University

• Location: Boston, Massachusetts

• Cost: $5,350

• Deadline: February 14, 2024

• Description: The Research in Science and Engineering (RISE) program at Boston University provides high school students with the opportunity to engage in research projects in various STEM fields, including chemistry. Participants collaborate with experienced researchers, work on real projects, and gain hands-on experience. This program fosters a deep appreciation for scientific research and academic exploration

Chemistry Projects Completed by Polygence Students

Our Polygence students are proof that these programs bring about real-world changes in the field of chemistry. Check out some projects from our best and brightest:

• Betul's Polygence research project focuses on developing a chemical method to produce nitrogen-doped carbon quantum dots from radish, an economical and bio-sourced substance. These synthesized particles demonstrate the potential to bind to genomic DNA, presenting advantages in chromosome imaging over traditional methods like DAPI by reflecting green light under the FITC filter.

• Natasha's Polygence project delves into addressing UV-induced DNA damage on human skin health, exploring the potential of incorporating enzymes like photolyase and T4 endonuclease into sunscreens to significantly reduce cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs) and potentially offer a new treatment and preventative method for UV-induced skin diseases and conditions.

Making the Most of Your Chemistry Internship

Once you’ve participated in any of these valuable science internships, you’ll want to consider what you gained from the experience and the skills you developed. Learn more about the importance of showcasing your internship on college applications with Polygence.

Middle and high school students can also create their own chemistry research project opportunities. Polygence has many engineering research mentors who are available to provide students with guidance and support along the way.

If you’re looking for other research and career opportunities in chemistry, check out our related guides:

• Chemistry Competitions for High School Students

• Chemistry Summer Research Programs

• Chemistry Research & Passion Project Ideas

• What Can You Do With A Chemistry Degree?