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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!

Research opportunities in circles

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Institution
Location
Tuition
Event type

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

Recommended for you

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

Summer Research Workshops

See website

Hosting Institution

University of Texas at Dallas

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Dallas (TX)

Cost

$500

Application Deadline

Feb 1, 2024

Categories

Biology, Engineering, Comp Sci...

Summary

This is run like informal college courses that meets at least twice per week – typical goal is to end with a final project or paper related to the research area. In-person is preferred, but online attendance is OK as well.

Summer Internship Program (HS-SIP)

See website

Hosting Institution

The National Institutes of Health

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Bethesda (MD)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Feb 16, 2024

Categories

Neuroscience, Biology, Medicin...

Summary

HS-SIP furnishes understudies with the amazing chance to do full-time biomedical exploration at NIH offices, working close by widely acclaimed experts. Candidates should be youngsters or seniors at the hour of utilization and 17 years of age at the initiation of the program to be thought of. The program is two months in length and offers a payment of $2080 each month to chose understudies

Summer High School Intensive in Next-Generation Engineering (SHINE)

See website

Hosting Institution

USC Viterbi

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

No location

Cost

$6,330

Application Deadline

Feb 15, 2024

Categories

Comp Sci

Summary

The SHINE (Summer High School Intensive in Next-Generation Engineering) program at USC Viterbi offers a unique research opportunity for high school students passionate about engineering. Over the course of seven weeks, participants join a research team and work closely with a mentor (professor) in their chosen engineering tracks. The program allows students to explore their top three engineering interests and pairs them with mentors who are experts in those fields. Students are expected to dedicate approximately 20 hours per week to their research projects, which can involve experimental lab work or computational research focused on cutting-edge technologies. In addition to the research experience, SHINE provides a strong community for students, offering opportunities for social and intellectual networking. Participants also receive college preparation tips and gain valuable experience in science communication. The SHINE program at USC Viterbi is an excellent opportunity for high school students to immerse themselves in engineering research and gain hands-on experience in their areas of interest while being supported by a vibrant and supportive community.

Summer Dance Intensive

See website

Hosting Institution

Julliard

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

New York (NY)

Cost

$4,100

Application Deadline

Dec 15, 2024

Categories

Literature and Languages, Arts

Summary

If you’ve trained intensively in ballet, want to refine your technique, and get more experience in performance, apply to the Juilliard Summer Dance Incentive. This three-week long experience is designed to give dancers an understanding of studying dance at Juilliard, what life might be like being as a dancer in New York City, and the opportunity to pick up new choreography from professional dancers daily. Students train in ballet and modern, participate in yoga classes, and showcase their skills at the end-of-the-year showcase. While you must have prior ballet training to get admitted, practice in modern dance isn’t required (but is an added bonus).

Summer Child Health Research Internship

See website

Hosting Institution

University of Colorado

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Boulder (CO)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Feb 1, 2024

Categories

Medicine

Summary

The Department of Pediatrics offers summer research opportunities for rising high school seniors, college students and first-year medical students. At the completion of research program, the summer research interns will be expected to provide a 2-3 page written summary of their research experience. In addition, all students will provide an oral or poster/PowerPoint summary of their research. Students and mentors will also be encouraged to produce abstracts for submission to local, regional and national meetings. If the students’ research is accepted for presentation at a scientific meeting, the Child Health Research Internship will provide funding for travel and registration for the student to travel to one scientific meeting.

Summer Academy for Math and Science at CMU

See website

Hosting Institution

Carnegie Mellon University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Pittsburgh (PA)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Mar 1, 2024

Categories

Data Science

Summary

Carnegie Mellon University presents a comprehensive 5-week pre-college program specifically designed for high school students who possess a deep passion for STEM and related research fields. As a participant in the SAMS program, you will receive exposure to and instruction in essential STEM research skills before the official program begins. Throughout the program, you will actively engage in seminars, discussion sessions, lab work, and meetings to further enhance your knowledge and understanding. The program culminates in August with a symposium where you will have the opportunity to showcase your work and findings. The SAMS program at Carnegie Mellon offers a valuable platform for students to explore and develop their interests in STEM research, fostering their growth and potential in these fields.

Summer Academy for Math and Science (SAMS)

See website

Hosting Institution

Carnegie Mellon University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Pittsburgh (PA)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Mar 1, 2024

Categories

Mathematics

Summary

If you are a high-school junior looking to excel in math and science, the Summer Academy for Mathematics and Science (SAMS) is an excellent opportunity for you. This free six-week program at Carnegie Mellon University offers college credit and a comprehensive curriculum taught by esteemed faculty. SAMS combines classroom instruction, hands-on research projects, and professional and academic development courses to provide a rigorous and engaging experience. As a participant, you will have the chance to present your STEM research projects at a Symposium, showcasing your newfound knowledge and skills. SAMS specifically seeks to support students from underrepresented backgrounds, including those from low-income families and communities with limited access to top-tier educational institutions. If you are dedicated to diversity and inclusion and have a strong interest in math, extracurricular activities, and community engagement, SAMS is an ideal program for you.

SUMaC Online Academic Enrichment

See website

Hosting Institution

Stanford University

Online/In Person

Online

Location

No location

Cost

$3,550-$8,250

Application Deadline

Feb 8, 2024

Categories

Quantitative, Mathematics

Summary

Stanford University Mathematics Camp (SUMaC) welcomes a select group of rising high school juniors and seniors from around the world for intensive study in advanced mathematics. SUMaC leads participants on a journey in advanced mathematics through lectures, guided research, and group problem solving. In an environment centered on mathematics, participants explore current lines of mathematical research, the historical development of important areas of mathematics, and applications across scientific disciplines.

Stony Brook University’s Simons Summer Research Program

See website

Hosting Institution

Stony Brook University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Stony Brook (NY)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Feb 7, 2024

Categories

Engineering

Summary

The 7-week program mentioned provides high school students with a unique opportunity to engage in hands-on research across a range of disciplines, including science, math, and engineering. By joining research teams and working closely with faculty members, students can gain valuable experience in conducting research, using laboratory equipment, and implementing research methodologies. This immersive program allows students to fully immerse themselves in the research environment of a university and gain insight into the exciting world of scientific exploration.

Stevens Institute of Technology High School Virtual Summer Research Program

See website

Hosting Institution

Stevens Institute of Technology

Online/In Person

Online

Location

No location

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Feb 29, 2024

Categories

Social Science, Business

Summary

"In this six-week program, students will have the opportunity to work alongside a faculty member from the School of Business and assist them in their area of research, such as: entrepreneurship, marketing, management, economics, finance. At the conclusion of the program, students will complete both a written and oral presentation. The written report will include a literature review, and the oral presentation will include a 5-minute video or a PowerPoint presentation detailing their research findings. Applicants must currently be in their junior year, 11th grade of high school. Open to students from all locations. "

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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