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?
SEE and ISB’s Environmental Systems in the Outdoors Research Experience
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This program is an in-person, outdoor environmental STEM research experience for high school students in the Seattle area.You will meet at a field location 2-3 times a week, where you must work to define a local environmental system, analyze its health, conduct research, and explore results from an environmental stewardship perspective. You will have the opportunity to investigate several environmental science issues, such as climate change, fungal invasion, microbial community interactions, and nitrogen and microplastic pollution. The program will conclude with a project showcase
National Student Leadership Conference Programs at Georgetown University
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The National Student Leadership Conference (NSLC) has been providing exceptional high school students with engaging and dynamic summer programs for over three decades. These sessions offer participants the opportunity to develop vital leadership abilities and gain exposure to potential career paths. Through hands-on simulations, field trips, and interactive discussions with prominent professionals in their selected fields, students can explore their interests and enhance their leadership skills. The NSLC aims to empower students and inspire them to become future leaders in their respective fields.
Michigan State University’s ANR Institute for Multicultural Students (AIMS)
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Michigan State University (MSU) offers a unique and diverse program for high school students interested in exploring careers in agriculture sciences and natural resources. The program provides a comprehensive understanding of various fields such as environmental science, agribusiness, agriculture engineering, and agriculture education. Through demonstrations, tours, and hands-on activities, students gain practical experience and insight into these areas. Additionally, MSU also offers the Multicultural Apprenticeship Program, a four-week research mentorship program that provides students with valuable research experiences in a supportive environment. These programs at MSU offer students the opportunity to delve into their interests and gain exposure to exciting career paths in agriculture and related fields.
John Hopkins Internship in Brain Sciences
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The Johns Hopkins internship program is designed to introduce students from underrepresented backgrounds to the field of neurological sciences. Through this highly selective program, interns are matched with scientists for research projects and have the opportunity to engage in clinical rotations with experienced neurologists. The program also includes seminars and professional development sessions to enhance students' knowledge and skills. While the 2023 deadline has passed, this information can guide prospective applicants for the 2024 program, emphasizing the importance of applying early and thoroughly reviewing the program's requirements.
Summer Science Institute
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The Late spring Science Establishment offers potential chances to partake in research examinations in brain science. The foundation is available to understudies entering grades 10-12. Notwithstanding their field, understudies will find out about gathering information, testing theories, utilizing factual programming, composing code, and so on.
Young Scholars Program
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The Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR) is a highly competitive and prestigious program designed for high school students interested in medicine and biomedical research. As a SIMR participant, you will have the opportunity to work in a cutting-edge laboratory setting alongside Stanford faculty, researchers, and students. The program includes hands-on research experience, seminars, workshops, and scientific presentations to enhance your understanding of the scientific process and medical research. SIMR offers a comprehensive and immersive experience that can greatly contribute to your knowledge, skills, and passion for medicine and biomedical sciences.
Yale Summer Session – Sociology courses
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If you have a passion for sociology and want to get a head start on your university studies, Yale Summer Session offers college credit courses that can provide a valuable introduction to the field. These courses cover a wide range of sociological topics, including race, gender, and class inequities in the U.S., the history of education in relation to the development of the U.S. empire, cultural anthropology, feminist and queer ethnographies, and more. By enrolling in these courses, you can engage in in-depth study, critical analysis, and meaningful discussions, all while earning college credits that can be applied towards your future degree. Yale Summer Session provides a unique opportunity to explore sociology at a higher academic level and gain valuable insights into the complexities of social structures, power dynamics, and cultural phenomena. To learn more about the specific summer offerings at Yale, be sure to check out our comprehensive post on the subject.
Wonderworks Houston
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Wonderworks is a non-profit organization dedicated to providing pre-college summer learning experiences in arts and humanities for high school students in the Houston area and throughout Texas. Through partnerships with various organizations, Wonderworks offers programs that focus on developing key academic and interpersonal skills to prepare students for their college journey. These programs aim to foster creativity, critical thinking, and cultural understanding by engaging students in diverse art forms, humanities subjects, and interactive learning experiences. By participating in Wonderworks programs, students have the opportunity to enhance their academic abilities, cultivate their passions, and build a strong foundation for their future educational endeavors.
Wake Forest: Finance and Investing Institute
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Get ahead of the game. Learn and experience how investing works. Dive into the world of investments – stocks, bonds, and mutual funds/exchange-traded funds (ETFs). Explore popular investing approaches, techniques, and strategies to confidently learn how fundamental analysis plays a role in valuation. Meet and collaborate with Wake Forest School of Business faculty and industry experts to get a glimpse of finance and investing from the collegiate level to the professional world. Confidently pitch prospective investments, refine public speaking skills, and build your investment portfolio.
Voltage Scholars Program
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The Voltage Scholars program offers a focused and intensive three-day, two-night experience for high school students who have a keen interest in economics. The program provides an introduction to the fundamental concepts of both macroeconomics and microeconomics. Additionally, students have the valuable opportunity to gain insights into the selective college admissions process through interactions with UChicago admissions counselors. An added advantage of this program is that it runs parallel to an undergraduate program, enabling Voltage Scholars to network with current college students. This networking opportunity allows participants to engage with and learn from experienced individuals who are pursuing their studies in economics or related fields. Overall, the Voltage Scholars program offers a comprehensive experience that combines academic learning, college admissions guidance, and valuable networking opportunities to foster students' interest in economics and enhance their understanding of the college experience.
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?
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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.