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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!

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Institution
Location
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Polygence Core is an online research program that connects motivated high school students with expert mentors from top universities. Founded by researchers from Harvard, MIT, and Stanford, Polygence helps you explore any topic you're passionate about through one-on-one mentoring over 3–6 months, ending with a project of your choice—like an academic research paper ready for publication, a prototype, or podcast.

Hosting Institution

Polygence

Online/In Person

Online

Cost

Starting at $2695

Application Deadline

Dec 15, 2024

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Categories

Biology, Business, Chemistry, Computer Sci, Econ, Engineering, Humanities, Medicine, Neuro, Psychology

Explore the program

Polygence Pods Research Program

See website

Hosting Institution

Polygence

Online/In Person

Online

Location

Online

Cost

$495

Application Deadline

Varies by program

Categories

Biology, Computer Science, Eco...

Summary

Learn Academic Research skills and build a foundational understanding of cutting edge subjects in Polygence Pods. Join a group of 6 students and meet weekly with a PhD-level mentor who is an expert in their respective field. Perfect for beginners, your program will culminate in a short-form research paper.

Other programs

The Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS)

See website

Hosting Institution

Society for Science

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Washington (DC)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Nov 8, 2023

Categories

Comp Sci

Summary

Regeneron Science Talent Search (STS) is a renowned science competition exclusively for high school seniors. As the oldest and most prestigious competition of its kind in the United States, it offers a platform for students to showcase their original research projects. The research work is critically evaluated by a national jury composed of professional scientists. Regeneron STS focuses on individual participation, encouraging students to excel in scientific inquiry, innovation, and communication. The program serves as a significant forum for recognizing and celebrating the achievements of young scientists.

The Plant the Moon Challenge

See website

Hosting Institution

PLANT THE MOON CHALLENGE

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

New York (NY)

Cost

$405

Application Deadline

Jan 13, 2024

Categories

Biology

Summary

The Plant the Moon Challenge is an extraordinary competition for biology enthusiasts, offering the opportunity to explore the growth of plants on the lunar surface. Judged by a panel of NASA scientists, participants receive lunar soil simulant and have 10 weeks to apply their knowledge of biology and astronomy to cultivate plants. Presenting their research and methodology at the end-of-competition symposium, participants gain exposure and networking opportunities. With high school students, undergraduates, and graduates competing, it provides a valuable learning experience and contributes to food security for astronauts in space. The Plant the Moon Challenge is an engaging platform that combines science, innovation, and a passion for space exploration.

The Lumen Prize

See website

Hosting Institution

The Lumen Prize

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Cardiff (UK)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Jan 5, 2024

Categories

Arts

Summary

The Lumen Prize is a highly regarded competition that focuses on supporting and promoting digital art that incorporates technology. It provides a platform for artists who work with technology to showcase their creative works and gain recognition. The competition consists of two stages of judging. In the first stage, the International Selectors Committee, which comprises academics, curators, and art critics, creates a longlist of entries. The longlisted entries are then forwarded to the Lumen Prize Jury Panel for further evaluation and shortlisting. When submitting an entry to the Lumen Prize, participants are also required to provide detailed descriptions of their artwork. This includes an artistic concept or idea behind the artwork, as well as any influences that have inspired its creation. The description should be limited to approximately 250 words. Additionally, artists are expected to provide a technical description that lists the hardware and software used in the creation of the artwork, including any original coding or design work. Physical dimensions should be specified if applicable. By participating in the Lumen Prize competition, artists have the opportunity to showcase their innovative digital art, gain exposure, and potentially receive recognition for their work. It is worth noting that past recipients of the Lumen Award can be explored to gain inspiration and see the caliber of talent that the competition attracts.

The Jackson Laboratory Summer Student Program

See website

Hosting Institution

The Jackson Laboratory

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Farmington (CT)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Jan 28, 2024

Categories

Biology

Summary

This 10-week program is specifically designed for students interested in delving deeper into genetics and genomic research. Students will be paired with a scientific mentor and tasked with developing a research project to present at the end of the summer. Participants will receive a stipend of $6,250 along with accommodations for room and board, as well as travel expenses.

The Governor’s School of New Jersey in Engineering & Technology

See website

Hosting Institution

Rutgers University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

New Brunswick (NJ)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Jan 12, 2024

Categories

Engineering

Summary

The Governor's School of New Jersey in Engineering & Technology provides an exceptional opportunity for high-achieving high school students to immerse themselves in the field of engineering and technology. This highly competitive summer program, hosted by Rutgers University School of Engineering, offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes academic courses, hands-on research projects, and engaging activities with industry professionals and peers. Through collaborative research projects, participants will have the chance to explore innovative ideas and present their findings at a research symposium, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Additionally, the program facilitates site visits to local corporations, providing valuable insights into potential career paths and industry trends. By participating in this program, students will gain a deeper understanding of engineering and technology, develop strong academic foundations, and establish meaningful connections within the field.

The Genes in Space Challenge

See website

Hosting Institution

Genes in Space

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Cambridge (MA)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Apr 15, 2024

Categories

Biology

Summary

Genes in Space is an innovative challenge that combines biotechnology and space exploration, providing young engineers with a unique opportunity to contribute to scientific advancements. Participants are tasked with conducting experiments using the GIS Toolkit, a collection of state-of-the-art tools including the Fluorescence Viewer, PCR thermal cycler, and BioBits cell-free system. By addressing key challenges in space exploration, such as the impact of deep space missions on DNA or the detection of new life forms, participants can propose innovative solutions and conduct experiments to test their hypotheses. The most outstanding projects have the chance to be conducted aboard the International Space Station as part of the Genes in Space-3 mission, providing an unparalleled opportunity for young scientists to make a significant impact in the field of space biology.

The Foundation for Teaching Economics’ Economics for Leaders (EFL)

See website

Hosting Institution

The Foundation for Teaching Economics

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Davis (CA)

Cost

$2,300

Application Deadline

Apr 11, 2024

Categories

Business

Summary

The Economics for Leaders (EFL) program combines economics and leadership development to provide students with the skills needed for effective decision-making. Hosted by the Foundation for Teaching Economics, a subsidiary of The Fund for American Studies, this residential program offers a unique opportunity to learn how to apply economic concepts and analysis to make informed choices in public policy. It's worth noting that the program admits only one student per high school, making early application highly recommended to enhance the chances of acceptance. Additionally, partial scholarships are available to assist with the program's cost.

The Bennington Young Writers Awards

See website

Hosting Institution

Bennington College

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Bennington (VT)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Jan 15, 2024

Categories

Literature and Languages

Summary

This tournament is available for high school students in grades 10 through 12, and the judging panel consists of faculty and students from Bennington College. Graduates of the college include seven Pulitzer Prize winners, three US poet laureates, and numerous New York Times bestselling authors. The tournament accepts submissions in the categories of poetry, fiction, and nonfiction, including personal and academic essays. The first-place winner in each category receives a prize of $500, while second-place winners receive $250.

The Academies by Harvard Student Agencies

See website

Hosting Institution

The Academies by Harvard Student Agencies

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Cambridge (MA)

Cost

$1,450

Application Deadline

Dec 31, 2023

Categories

Biology

Summary

This program is an academic enrichment program tailored for high school students and focuses on various fields such as Business, Coding, Politics and Law, and Pre-Medical studies. While it is not directly administered by Harvard College, it is organized by the Harvard Student Agencies, a student-run company comprised of Harvard students. Each program within the offering includes compelling lectures, keynote speeches delivered by industry professionals, enriching field trips, and concludes with a final project presentation. An additional advantage of these academies is the opportunity for high school students to establish connections with Harvard undergraduate mentors, facilitating mentorship and guidance throughout the program.

Texas Tech’s Anson L. Clark Scholars Program

See website

Hosting Institution

Texas Tech University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Lubbock (TX)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Feb 15, 2024

Categories

Medicine

Summary

The 7-week intensive program provides highly gifted students with a unique opportunity to collaborate closely with exceptional faculty from the general academic campus and the Health Science Center. Alongside research-focused activities, the program incorporates weekly seminars, discussions, and field trips to enhance the overall learning experience. This immersive program aims to foster intellectual growth and hands-on research skills in a stimulating and supportive environment.

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.

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