A black and green photo of a black and green object.

Research Opportunities Database for High School Students

A comprehensive guide to research opportunities and science competitions available for high school students across the US. We've compiled a detailed list of research opportunities by region, subject and institution below!

Research opportunities in circles

What research opportunity are you looking for?

Institution
Location
Tuition
Event type

Polygence Core is an online research program that connects motivated high school students with expert mentors from top universities. Founded by researchers from Harvard, MIT, and Stanford, Polygence helps you explore any topic you're passionate about through one-on-one mentoring over 3–6 months, ending with a project of your choice—like an academic research paper ready for publication, a prototype, or podcast.

Hosting Institution

Polygence

Online/In Person

Online

Cost

Starting at $2695

Application Deadline

Dec 15, 2024

Recommended for you

Categories

Biology, Business, Chemistry, Computer Sci, Econ, Engineering, Humanities, Medicine, Neuro, Psychology

Explore the program

Polygence Pods Research Program

Summary

Learn Academic Research skills and build a foundational understanding of cutting edge subjects in Polygence Pods. Join a group of 6 students and meet weekly with a PhD-level mentor who is an expert in their respective field. Perfect for beginners, your program will culminate in a short-form research paper.

Hosting Institution

Polygence

Online/In Person

Online

Cost

Starting at $495

Application Deadline

Varies by program

Short courses

Categories

Biology, Computer Science, Economics, Engineering, Humanities, Mathematics, Other

Explore the program

Other programs

Summer Academic Research Experience (SARE)

See website

Hosting Institution

Johns Hopkins University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Baltimore (MD)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

No deadline

Categories

Medicine

Summary

The SARE (Summer Academic Research Experience) program is a transformative opportunity for students from diverse and underrepresented backgrounds to engage in scientific research and explore careers in biomedicine. As a SARE Scholar, you will immerse yourself in modern scientific methodologies, develop crucial laboratory skills, and cultivate analytical and critical thinking abilities. Through interactive discussions, hands-on activities, mentorship sessions, and academic assignments, you will gain valuable insights into research practices and strengthen your academic foundation. This program aims to provide a supportive and inclusive environment where you can thrive, expand your scientific knowledge, and foster connections with professionals in the field. By participating in the SARE program, you will not only enhance your understanding of biomedicine but also contribute to increasing diversity and representation in the scientific community.

Summer Journalism Program, Princeton University

See website

Hosting Institution

Princeton University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Princeton (NJ)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

No deadline

Categories

Social Science

Summary

The Princeton Summer Journalism Program (PSJP) is an exceptional opportunity for high-achieving students from low-income backgrounds who aspire to pursue political journalism. This year-long course offers a comprehensive residential program focused on journalism and college preparation. Participants engage in in-depth study of politics and current affairs, benefiting from the expertise of Princeton professors and accomplished journalists. The program includes a mix of online and in-person components, with weekly lectures, workshops, and mentorship from program alumni and professionals from esteemed publications such as The New York Times, The Washington Post, The New Yorker, and CNN, among others. Students also receive guidance from college advisors to help navigate their academic journey. It's important to note that the PSJP is highly competitive, with a rigorous application process consisting of three rounds. The final cohort consists of a select group of up to 40 talented students. This immersive program equips aspiring political journalists with the skills, knowledge, and network needed to excel in their chosen field.

Summer Outreach Camp IISER Bhopal

See website

Hosting Institution

IISER Bhopal

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Bhauri (Bhopal)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

No deadline

Categories

Engineering

Summary

The camp aims to enable the participants to understand the central role of science in society. This camp will introduce participants to fascinating topics in natural and engineering sciences through lectures and hands-on laboratory exercises. This exposure will be supplemented with critical perspectives from Humanities and Social Sciences. Additionally, there will be fun activities through which the participants can interact with the senior students.

Summer Pre-College Programs

See website

Hosting Institution

University of North Carolina

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Asheville (NC)

Cost

$1,750

Application Deadline

No deadline

Categories

Biology

Summary

River Ecology & Adventure learn about Southern Appalachian stream ecology while canoeing sections of pristine rivers, hiking to wilderness swimming holes and investigating local aquatic species, and be challenged to think critically about human impact on the environment while rafting exciting whitewater.

Summer Science Internship Program

See website

Hosting Institution

University of California

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Santa Clara (CA)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

No deadline

Categories

Neuroscience, Biology, Chemist...

Summary

This multi-week research program is coordinated by the Rheumatology and Immunology Labs at Stanford College and the College of California, San Francisco. The program is available to secondary school youngsters and seniors. Chosen understudies work in top exploration and clinical research facilities at Stanford College and the College of California, San Francisco, under the direction of famous specialists. Understudies work 40 hours out of each week in either essential lab research or clinical epidemiological/translational (patient-centered) research. The program offers a $1500 payment

Summer Science Program

See website

Hosting Institution

The Summer Science Program

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Morrisville (NC)

Cost

$8,400

Application Deadline

No deadline

Categories

Physics

Summary

The astrophysics track offered by SSP provides an exciting summer project that allows students to engage in the fascinating task of determining the orbit of an asteroid. Working in teams of three, participants will learn about celestial coordinates, select a near-Earth asteroid, observe it through a telescope, and utilize programming skills to calculate its orbit. This unique opportunity not only offers hands-on experience in astrophysics but also allows students to contribute to scientific research in the field. As a prestigious program, SSP has a competitive acceptance rate of 10%, highlighting the high caliber of participants selected for the program.

Technology Student Association Competitions

See website

Hosting Institution

Technology Student Association

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Reston (VA)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

No deadline

Categories

Data Science

Summary

The Technology Student Association (TSA) offers middle and high school students with a strong interest and aptitude in STEM the opportunity to participate in a wide range of challenges and activities. The organization provides a platform for students to engage in coding, data science and analytics, virtual reality, game design, and many other STEM-related fields. TSA competitions and challenges encourage students to showcase their skills and knowledge in these areas, fostering innovation, problem-solving, and creativity. By participating in TSA, students have the chance to further develop their STEM abilities, interact with like-minded peers, and explore various areas of technology and engineering.

TEST - Research Opportunity

See website

Hosting Institution

Lorem Institute

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Menlo Park (CA)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

No deadline

Categories

Arts

Summary

Donec eu elit non mauris mollis tempor. Donec varius pharetra nulla vel tempor. Suspendisse eu egestas neque. Mauris tincidunt nisi metus, ut accumsan elit placerat ut. Duis tortor ante, lobortis in laoreet at, hendrerit sit amet lacus. Morbi purus lorem, pharetra eget congue ut, ultricies at risus. Ut congue nunc eget tellus accumsan tincidunt. Cras sodales erat erat, a dapibus mauris posuere et. Integer laoreet turpis quis diam malesuada rhoncus. Sed ut tellus semper, dictum enim non, laoreet eros. Aliquam tristique volutpat urna commodo facilisis. Nam ut ipsum orci. Integer id enim risus. Duis ornare mauris neque, sit amet aliquet sem egestas ac. Integer blandit porttitor iaculis. Sed ut varius tellus, non ornare nibh. In et ante elit.

Texas A&M's Advancing into STEM Summer Camp

See website

Hosting Institution

The School of Education and Human Development

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

College Station (TX)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

No deadline

Categories

Mathematics

Summary

The STEM-focused program, with both 1-week and 2-week options, is designed to provide rising high school students with a comprehensive exploration of various STEM subjects. Participants will have the opportunity to delve deeper into topics such as discrete mathematics, statistics, coding, atmospheric science, and engineering design. Through engaging coursework, hands-on activities, and interactive discussions, students will deepen their understanding and broaden their knowledge in these areas. This program offers an immersive learning experience that fosters critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a passion for STEM disciplines. Whether students are interested in mathematics, computer science, or engineering, this program provides a valuable platform for them to expand their horizons and gain a deeper understanding of these important subjects.

The BioGENEius Challenge

See website

Hosting Institution

Biotech Institute

Online/In Person

Online

Location

Washington (DC)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

No deadline

Categories

Biology

Summary

Students have the opportunity to demonstrate their expertise in biotech research through the BioGENEius Challenge, which is divided into three main categories: Healthcare, Sustainability, and Environment. The competition attracts thousands of entries each year, and the top 5% of applicants earn the chance to present their research at the prestigious BIO International Convention. Participants can apply directly to the virtual edition or participate in local and regional events based on their location. Examples of research projects include using algae for synthesizing complex antibiotics, employing lipid-modified algae to reduce fishmeal requirements in aquaculture, and exploring lipid-optimized algae as an alternative energy source for lightweight hydrocarbon fuels. The BioGENEius Challenge offers a unique opportunity to enhance resumes, develop research skills, and gain recognition in the biotech field.

What is a Research Project?

A research project is a structured and systematic investigation into specific topic or question. It involves a series of planned activities. Research projects often require students to formulate hypotheses, conduct experiments, surveys, or literature reviews, and present their findings in a clear and organized manner. These projects foster critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a deeper appreciation for the research process. They provide students with valuable hands-on experience and the opportunity to contribute to their field of interest while enhancing their academic and personal growth.

Why do a research project as a high school student?

Research projects can play a pivotal role in shaping the academic journey and future prospects of high school students. Engaging in research while still in school not only helps students discover their passions but also significantly enhances their chances of successful college admissions.

Exploring research projects allows high school students to delve into various fields of study, providing them with a firsthand experience of what truly interests them. This hands-on exposure aids in identifying their passions and helps them make informed decisions when selecting a college major or career path. It's a crucial step in personal and academic development.

Moreover, active participation in research demonstrates dedication, curiosity, and a willingness to go beyond the standard curriculum, qualities highly valued by college admissions committees. Admissions officers are often impressed by applicants who have shown initiative and a genuine interest in learning through research experiences. These opportunities can set students apart from their peers and greatly improve their chances of gaining admission to their dream colleges.

Ready to start your own research project?
Apply today!

We're so excited that you're interested in pursuing a path in research. Polygence is an online research academy dedicated to democratizing access to research opportunities for high school students. Whether you are interested in quantitative biology, fashion history, or privacy law, expert Polygence mentors will help you explore your area of interest.

OR CONTINUE WITH
Already have an account? Log In
By registering you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy, and consent that we or our partner provider may reach out to you using a system that can auto-dial.