Research Opportunities Database for High School Students

Summary

The iGEM Competition, organized by the non-profit foundation iGEM, offers an unparalleled platform for young innovators interested in synthetic biology. This global event brings together teams of 8-15 participants to showcase their creativity and problem-solving skills by applying principles and techniques from synthetic biology to address real-world challenges. Participants are tasked with designing, building, testing, and measuring an original system using interchangeable biological parts and standard molecular biology methods. What sets iGEM apart is its emphasis on multidisciplinary collaboration, encouraging teams to include members from diverse fields such as law, marine biology, mathematics, and social sciences, resulting in more comprehensive and robust project designs. The most promising projects are selected to participate in the prestigious iGEM Grand Jamboree, where teams present their innovative solutions to a global audience. The iGEM Competition is an exceptional opportunity for young scientists and innovators to showcase their talent, engage in cutting-edge research, and contribute to the field of synthetic biology.

Summary

ChemiCo, organized by StemCo, is an Olympiad-style chemistry competition that welcomes high school students from around the globe. The competition focuses on testing participants' understanding of fundamental concepts covered in the general secondary school chemistry syllabus. Topics such as stoichiometry calculations, reactions, the periodic table, atomic structure, chemical bonding, and experimental chemistry are included in the assessment. ChemiCo is conducted in multiple languages, including English, Russian, French, Portuguese, and Romanian, to accommodate participants from diverse linguistic backgrounds. With over 5,000 entries from more than 40 countries, ChemiCo provides an opportunity for students to showcase their chemistry knowledge and compete on an international level.

Summary

ATHENA By Women In STEM offers a valuable research mentorship program specifically designed for female and genderqueer students. This month-long program provides participants with the opportunity to work closely with a mentor, engaging in one-on-one meetings and conducting scientific research. The program culminates with the writing of a formal research paper, which may cover a wide range of topics, including astrophysics. Furthermore, participants have the chance to present their research at the Talaria conference, receive a certificate, and potentially get their work published in the Talaria journal. With an acceptance rate of 13% in 2022, it is advisable for interested students to consider applying to this program alongside other opportunities to enhance their chances of acceptance.

Summary

The Young Leaders for Active Citizenship (YLAC) offers a 1-month program designed to immerse high school students in live research projects with esteemed partner organizations such as Our Democracy, Teach for India, Indian School of Democracy, Lung Care Foundation, World Resources Institute, and many others. Through this program, students have the unique opportunity to work on pressing social issues across a wide range of fields, including environment, gender, education, global health, and governance. By actively engaging with these partner organizations, students gain hands-on experience and contribute to ongoing research projects. They have the chance to deepen their understanding of the challenges and complexities associated with these issues, while developing crucial skills in research, analysis, and problem-solving. The YLAC program serves as a platform for young leaders to actively participate in and make a positive impact on society, fostering a sense of active citizenship and promoting social change.

Summary

The School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) offers three exceptional pre-college summer programs for high school students, providing immersive and exploratory experiences in the world of art. The Early College Program (ECP) offers courses in a variety of artistic disciplines, such as painting, drawing, animation, fashion, and design. This program allows students who have completed their sophomore year of high school to earn college credit. The Early College Program Summer Institute (ECPSI) offers an intensive summer experience where students create portfolio-quality work, engage with faculty, and explore SAIC's state-of-the-art art facilities while earning college credit. For those seeking a virtual experience, the Early College Program Online Summer Institute (ECPOSI) provides an accessible option to work on portfolios and deepen understanding of contemporary art through networking with peers and mentors. These programs offer unique opportunities for high school students to enhance their artistic skills, build their portfolios, and gain valuable insight into the world of art and design.

Summary

The pre-college programs provide high school students with the opportunity to explore a wide range of subjects and disciplines, including business, communication, art, and computer science. These programs are designed to give students a taste of college-level coursework and offer the option to earn college credit. By participating in these programs, students can gain valuable academic experience, develop new skills, and get a head start on their college education. Whether they are interested in pursuing a specific field or simply want to broaden their knowledge and skills, the pre-college programs offer a diverse selection of courses to cater to their interests and goals.

Summary

The Congressional App Challenge is a district-wide competition hosted by members of the U.S. House of Representatives. The challenge is open to middle school and high school students and aims to promote problem-solving through coding. Students are encouraged to develop and submit their own original applications that address real-world challenges. The competition provides an opportunity for students to showcase their creativity and coding skills while addressing issues that are relevant to their communities.

Summary

The Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP) is a highly prestigious apprenticeship program offered by more than 20 naval laboratories across the United States. This competitive program provides around 300 placements each year and has proven to be a valuable stepping stone for many participants who pursue careers within the Department of the Navy (DoN). As an apprentice in the SEAP program, you will have the opportunity to work closely with research personnel who will act as mentors, providing guidance and support throughout the program. This hands-on experience allows you to engage in scientific and engineering practices that go beyond what is typically available in a school environment. Over the course of 8 weeks, you will gain firsthand experience in STEM fields, further developing your skills and knowledge. In addition to the invaluable learning experience, you will also receive a stipend for your participation in the program. The SEAP program offers a unique and positive opportunity for high school students to explore and deepen their understanding of careers in science and engineering.

Summary

The Saper Law Immersion Program offers a unique opportunity for students interested in pursuing a career in law or those curious about the legal profession. This program provides hands-on experience in the daily activities of a legal professional, including negotiation exercises, writing exercises, field trips, and mock legal proceedings. With a focus on areas such as social media, digital technology, entertainment, business, and internet law, students will engage in case studies that are relevant to these fields. Throughout the program, participants will learn from established professionals in the legal field, gaining valuable insights and knowledge. The program also emphasizes the development of debate skills, allowing students to practice and enhance their ability to argue and present their thoughts effectively. Whether you are considering a career in law or simply want to gain a deeper understanding of the legal profession, the Saper Law Immersion Program offers a comprehensive and engaging experience.

Summary

ISB's formal summer internship program offers a paid opportunity for high school students interested in working at the Baliga Lab or other ISB Labs. This 8-week internship provides hands-on experience aligned with ongoing ISB initiatives under the guidance of a mentor. Participants will receive instruction in systems biology and apply their knowledge to a research project. Depending on the project, interns may also develop skills in scientific, engineering, mathematical, coding, and other computer-based disciplines. The program offers additional benefits such as the opportunity to interview ISB professionals, create a website documenting the internship experience and project, and contribute to school-based curricula development. The internship covers various topics including computational biology, microbial interactions, complex system resilience and collapse, the microbiome, microbial evolution, cancer research, systems medicine, and bioengineering using algae. It is a comprehensive and enriching experience for students interested in exploring the field of systems biology.