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?
Summer High School Internship Program
See websiteSummary
This multi-week paid summer research temporary job at Fred Box is available to ascending secondary school seniors. The Pen has gained notoriety for its spearheading research in organic sciences, bone marrow and undifferentiated cell transplantation, disease avoidance, the study of disease transmission, and biostatistics. The program offers payment to understudies for their cooperation
Ross Mathematics Program (Ross/USA Program)
See websiteSummary
The Ross Program is an intensive summer experience designed to encourage motivated pre-college students to explore mathematics. During those weeks, students are immersed in a world of mathematical discovery. Our central goal has always been to instruct bright young students in the art of mathematical thinking and to inspire them to discover for themselves that abstract ideas are valuable and important. First year participants take the basic course in number theory. For most students, this is the first time they are asked to consider entirely new questions, to develop methods that they have not seen before, and to justify every answer.
CDC Museum Disease Detective Camp
See websiteSummary
Topics vary year to year, but may include: public health interventions, global health, infectious disease, chronic disease, injury prevention, data analysis, surveys, school wellness programs, violence prevention, environmental health, emergency preparedness, outbreaks, scientific communication, laboratory technology, disease surveillance, epidemiology, and public health law. Camp is a fast paced, academically demanding program. Participants are expected to fully immerse themselves, work together, and become a diverse team of disease detectives!
High School Research Academy (HSRA)
See websiteSummary
The summer High School Research Academy (HSRA) provides high school students with an immersive and hands-on five-week interdisciplinary non-residential summer research experience at the University of Texas at Austin campus. Students participate in research projects in active College of Natural Sciences (CNS) laboratories related to the exciting fields of biochemistry, biology, environmental science, genetics, neuroscience, genome engineering, data analytics, ecology, and more. Participants will learn cutting edge research techniques while gaining valuable insights and experiences through interaction with UT students and faculty in CNS undergraduate research groups.
City of Hope's Eugene and Ruth Roberts Summer Student Academy
See websiteSummary
Unlike traditional high school or college classes where the course of study is entirely set by the instructor, City of Hope’s summer program students select their own research project according to their individual areas of interest. Selected participants then spend 10 weeks working full-time as a member of a biomedical research team. Our world-renowned physicians and scientists serve as mentors, guiding students in their research, while helping them develop their critical thinking skills.
Research Mentorship Program
See websiteSummary
This program offers a distinctive feature of providing students with exposure to various interdisciplinary research topics, allowing them to select their preferred project option. The program encompasses 24 fields, ranging from sciences to social sciences and humanities. Students are required to choose a research project and advisor, who could be a graduate student, postdoc, or professor, to undertake graduate-level research.
The Data Science Experience
See websiteSummary
High school participants enroll in two college-level classes and take part in existing research projects that require analyzing data sets, coding data, and using other essential software to glean key insights from large troves of information.....a connected set of opportunities to learn about how data science can be harnessed to answer questions across all disciplines. Activities are optional and cover broad topics with something for everyone. Students will be able to participate regardless of experience or background. Data sets, code, analyses, and resources will be maintained and available to all during and after the program. Explore the side menus to learn more!
Summer Neuroscience Program (SNP)
See websiteSummary
The Summer Neuroscience Program (SNP) is a two-week course for NYC public high schoolers led by Rockefeller graduate students. Participants take a look at ongoing neuroscience research in an effort to understand how the brain works and how it relates to our daily life. We aim to introduce students to modern neuroscience. Applicants must be enrolled in a New York City public school, and must be at least 16 years of age by the start of the program.
Stanford AI4ALL
See websiteSummary
Stanford AI4ALL aims to increase diversity in the field of artificial intelligence. During this three-week online program, students are immersed in AI through a combination of lectures, hands-on research projects, and mentoring activities. Participants engage with professionals in the field to learn about cutting-edge ideas, such as how AI can be applied in medicine, disaster response, and combatting poverty. Open to current 9th-grade students (rising 10th graders during the summer) eager to explore the exciting field of AI and increase diversity in the field.
PROMYS
See websiteSummary
The Program in Mathematics for Young Scientists, or PROMYS, is a six-week intensive mathematics program designed for students across the globe. The program is held on Boston University’s campus. There are daily “Number Theory” lectures, and a great deal of independence for students to choose their own schedules and decide what they would like to study. In addition to the extensive learning opportunities, there is also “mandatory fun time” built into the weekly schedule so that students are able to have non-math related activities.
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.