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!
What research opportunity are you looking for?
Hosting Institution
Polygence
Online/In Person
Online
Cost
Starting at $2695
Application Deadline
Dec 15, 2024
Categories
Biology, Business, Chemistry, Computer Sci, Econ, Engineering, Humanities, Medicine, Neuro, Psychology
Hosting Institution
Polygence
Online/In Person
Online
Cost
Starting at $495
Application Deadline
Varies by program
Categories
Biology, Computer Science, Economics, Engineering, Humanities, Mathematics, Other
Other programs
The Center for Architecture and Design’s High School Design Studio
See websiteSummary
The Center for Architecture and Design, a non-profit organization, offers a commuter program focused on design. The primary theme for the upcoming year is "Figure vs. Ground," exploring the application of this concept across various scales, from individual room layouts to city planning. In addition to examining architecture, engineering, and interior design, the coursework delves into these topics in depth. The program emphasizes immersive studio work, providing participants with a collegiate-level experience that encourages hands-on learning and critical thinking. By engaging with the program, students have the opportunity to expand their knowledge and skills in design while exploring the dynamic relationship between figures and their surrounding environments.
The Cornell Art Mentorship Program
See websiteSummary
The Cornell Art Mentorship Program is an innovative initiative led by senior B.F.A. students in Cornell University's College of Art, Architecture, and Planning. This program is specifically designed to offer high school students in the Ithaca area an exclusive opportunity to explore art, sculpture, and transmedia through a series of engaging courses. Participants also have the chance to exhibit their artwork in the exhibition spaces of Olive Tjaden Hall, further showcasing their creative talents. The program aims to provide a professional experience for high school students, enabling them to gain practical insights into the world of art and ask questions about being an artist or any other aspect of the art world. The Cornell Art Mentorship Program fosters artistic development and cultivates a supportive environment where aspiring young artists can learn, grow, and showcase their artistic abilities.
The Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History – History School
See websiteSummary
The institute hosting this online program is a non-profit public charity that has received recognition from the White House for its work. The program offers a variety of courses that include Zoom lectures, online activities, discussions, and a certificate upon completion. While the specific details for Summer 2023 are not yet available, it is expected that the program will offer courses similar to those offered in Summer 2022. Some examples of courses from the previous summer include 'World Wars I and II: Life on the Home Front', 'AP US Government and Politics: The Required Supreme Court Cases', and 'AP US History'.
The International Economics Olympiad
See websiteSummary
If you have a passion for finance and economics, the International Economics Olympiad (IEO) is an excellent opportunity to enhance your literacy in these subjects. The Olympiad assesses students' logical thinking, creative application, problem-solving abilities in economics and finance, and requires them to present a business case. The study materials provided by IEO serve as valuable resources to prepare for the Olympiad, ensuring that participants have the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in the competition. By participating in the IEO, you can challenge yourself, showcase your abilities, and gain a deeper understanding of the fascinating world of economics and finance.
The National Ocean Sciences Bowl
See websiteSummary
The National Ocean Sciences Bowl (NOSB) is an annual and highly competitive competition that assesses high school students' knowledge of ocean sciences and marine biology, as well as their ability to address real-world ocean-related issues. This enriching experience is open to students across the United States, with regional competitions leading to the national event held in the spring. Teams must consist of a minimum of four students who compete in local challenges to qualify for the national competition. The NOSB covers various topics including biology, physics, geology, and chemistry of the oceans, in addition to current events. It is worth noting that high school participants in the NOSB have the opportunity to apply for the National Ocean Scholar Program, which provides scholarships to support their college education as incoming freshmen. This competition is an excellent opportunity for high school students interested in marine sciences to showcase their knowledge and potentially receive financial support for their future studies.
The National Personal Finance Challenge
See websiteSummary
The National Personal Finance Challenge, organized by the Council for Economic Education, is a highly regarded event that promotes financial literacy among students and assesses their practical application of personal finance concepts. With thousands of students participating annually, the challenge provides an opportunity to learn about various aspects of personal finance, including earning income, spending, saving, investing, managing credit, and managing risk. Upon qualifying for the state-level rounds, teams are tasked with creating and presenting a personal finance plan based on a fictional family scenario in the National Finals. To support students, the Council for Economic Education offers a free toolkit that can serve as a valuable resource for those interested in finance and economics.
The Nook Farm Writers Collaborative at the Mark Twain House & Museum
See websiteSummary
The Mark Twain House Summer Writing Program offers a unique and immersive experience for aspiring writers. Located at the historic Mark Twain House, participants have the opportunity to engage in daily writing activities under the guidance of experienced professionals. Drawing inspiration from Mark Twain's writings, participants will explore various genres such as travel writing, journalism, personal essays, and poetry. The program also encourages collaborative work, allowing participants to contribute to the creation of an online literary journal. This program provides a creative and supportive environment for writers to hone their skills and express their unique voices.
The Oakland Zoo's Intro to Climate Solutions Internship
See websiteSummary
The Oakland Zoo offers the 'Intro to Climate Solutions' summer internship program, a comprehensive 7-week opportunity for teenagers interested in ecology, conservation, environmental science, and related fields. This program combines virtual meetings and field trips to delve into conservation-related topics. With a focus on the nine sectors identified by Project Drawdown as crucial for addressing climate change, each week centers around a specific theme. The internship takes place from Tuesday to Thursday, providing hands-on experience and knowledge building. In the latter half of the program, participants engage in a capstone project, receiving guidance and supervision from Oakland Zoo staff. The internship culminates with a brief presentation and submission of a final report on the capstone project, allowing interns to showcase their knowledge and contributions to climate solutions.
The Summer Youth Intensive Program
See websiteSummary
UC Berkeley's College of Chemistry oversees and organizes the Summer Youth Intensive Program (SYIP), a comprehensive one-year initiative. The program is designed to provide students with a keen interest in scientific research with valuable hands-on experience, enhancing their prospects for success in college. Additionally, SYIP aims to support students in acclimating to the college environment and navigating the challenges of college life.
The United States Attorney's Office Eastern District of New York Student Internship
See websiteSummary
The United States Attorney's Office Eastern District of New York offers valuable unpaid internships for students interested in pursuing a career in law. These internships provide a hands-on experience in real-world legal proceedings, particularly in the field of criminal law. They serve as an excellent opportunity for students studying pre-law, criminal justice, or community crime prevention to gain practical knowledge and skills. Depending on the specific internship placement, participants may assist in various tasks such as setting up courtrooms, conducting legal research and analysis, preparing for trials, and managing legal evidence and data. The specialized internship placements available include Automated Litigation Support, Paralegal-Legal Studies, and Library Legal Information and Resource Center. Through these internships, students can gain valuable insights into the workings of the legal system while contributing to the important work of the United States Attorney's Office Eastern District of New York.
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.