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?
Customized 1-on-1 Research Practicum for 7-9 Graders
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Scholar Launch’s One-on-one Research Practicum is highly customized according to our students’ interests, academic level, learning goals and schedules. It is a perfect opportunity for students to pursue unique, impressive and often niche research projects.
Advanced Group Research Practicum
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Group-based Research Practicum, students can engage in lively discussions, get professional guidance from Teaching Assistants and work with professors and scholars from renowned universities. Each student will produce their own unique, impactful work product across a catalog of disciplines.
Customized 1-on-1 Research Practicum for Grade 9 & above
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Scholar Launch’s One-on-one Research Practicum is highly customized according to our students’ interests, academic level, learning goals and schedules. It is a perfect opportunity for students to pursue unique, impressive and often niche research projects
Research Scholars: School of Medicine - Sports Medicine Summer Academy
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The UC San Diego Sports Medicine Summer Academy is an interactive, intensive summer course designed for incoming 11th and 12th grade students who are interested in sports medicine. The goal of the Sports Medicine Summer Academy is to familiarize students with the focus, concepts, content and activities of the area of clinical medicine called Sports Medicine. Students will actively participate in lectures from nationally acclaimed faculty, explore current research in sports medicine, and analyze their own wellness and fitness using wearable technology.
AI Fellowship
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Create a novel AI project independently with the support of a mentor over 12-15 weeks and showcase what you’re passionate about.
Research Assistant
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Research Assistants will select novel research questions to study during their time in the lab (our lab staff is available to help you decide on research topics if needed). You will attend weekly lab meetings and one-on-one meeting with top-tier university faculty as well as some meetings with a graduate student mentor (~2 hours of meeting time per week) along with assignments that you will be completing independently (up to 5-10 hours per week). In the end, you will present work products to the lab, staff & peers.
Change Agent Academy - Virtual Research Cohort
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Our 12-week, 60-hour program provides high-potential teens with the ability to: - Attend virtual 90-minute meetings utilizing online learning tools, including Google Classroom and Zoom. - Participate in a college-level research project geared toward elevating teen voices. - Explore social justice issues they are passionate about in an academic setting. - Increase their “intellectual humility” (an indicator of a growth mindset – a major consideration in the college admission process). - Develop a public policy framework that advocates for social reform. - Connect with social justice advocates and thought leaders. - Become an agent of change in their school, community, or society. - Publish content that enhances their academic resumes.
Spark’s Summer Internship Program (Spark SIP)
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The Spark SIP program is available to all high school students with an interest in computer science and related fields. It offers a unique opportunity for students to engage in research, collaborate with scholars and industry leaders, and gain practical experience through a full-time summer internship program. Participants of the program are provided with a $500 stipend to support their involvement.
Boys/Girls State
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The American Legion and the American Legion Auxiliary provide valuable support to young leaders across the United States through their Boys and Girls State programs. These summer programs are specifically designed to nurture leadership skills and promote community-building among participants. The programs are highly sought after, with a rigorous selection process that annually shortlists approximately 40,000 boys and girls. If you are fortunate enough to be selected for Boys/Girls Nationals, you will have the opportunity to travel to Washington DC and engage with young leaders from all corners of the country. The program divides participants into two parties, where they actively participate in subsequent program elections, propose bills, carry out motions, and gain familiarity with fundamental governmental procedures. For individuals aspiring to pursue degrees in fields such as Political Science, Law, Public Policy, and similar disciplines, the Boys and Girls State programs should be considered a valuable experience to have on their radar. It is worth noting that including this program on your resume carries significant prestige, akin to earning the distinction of an Eagle Scout.
World Economics Cup
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The World Economics Cup (WEC) is an international competition that promotes a deeper understanding and engagement with economics on a global scale. The competition challenges students to apply their knowledge of economics to solve problems and make informed decisions. Participants register as teams from their respective schools and participate in multiple rounds that include multiple-choice questions on micro and macroeconomics, objective questions based on provided materials, and team presentations. The WEC goes beyond testing pre-learned information by providing academic guidance and background knowledge to ensure a level playing field for participants from different countries. By participating in the WEC, students have the opportunity to showcase their economic acumen and enhance their understanding of this important field of study.
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.