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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
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

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Polygence Pods Research Program

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.

Hosting Institution

Polygence

Online/In Person

Online

Cost

Starting at $495

Application Deadline

Varies by program

Short courses

Categories

Biology, Computer Science, Economics, Engineering, Humanities, Mathematics, Other

Explore the program

Other programs

Rady Children's Medical Academy

See website

Hosting Institution

Rady Children's Hospital

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

San Diego (CA)

Cost

$3,000

Application Deadline

Feb 23, 2024

Categories

Medicine

Summary

The Summer Medical Academy (SMA) is designed for students between 15-19 years old who are interested in pursuing a career in healthcare. To be eligible, students must have completed 9th grade (up until the summer after graduating 12th grade). While meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee acceptance, SMA seeks highly motivated and enthusiastic students who have demonstrated academic success and extracurricular involvement, as well as a passion for healthcare. In addition, geographic proximity to San Diego, last grade completed in school, and affiliation with RCHSD will also be considered. Short answer and essay responses, along with teacher recommendations, are key application criteria. If accepted, details and payment instructions will be provided in acceptance letters. Proceeds from the program benefit the FACES for the Future-San Diego program at Rady Children’s, and a portion of the payment may be tax-deductible.

PROMYS India

See website

Hosting Institution

Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bengaluru

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Bengaluru Karnataka

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Apr 1, 2024

Categories

Mathematics

Summary

A challenging six-week residential mathematics summer programme, PROMYS India is open to mathematically talented secondary and higher secondary students (Standards IX - XII or equivalent). Meticulously selected students from across India will gather on the campus of the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bengaluru to immerse themselves in rigorous mathematics.

Program in Mathematics for Young Scientists (PROMYS)

See website

Hosting Institution

PROMY

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Boston (MA)

Cost

$8,500

Application Deadline

Mar 1, 2024

Categories

Mathematics

Summary

The PROMYS program offers a transformative six-week summer experience for highly motivated high school students with a passion for mathematics. The program is centered around fostering exploration, discovery, and deep mathematical thinking. Through thought-provoking lectures, advanced seminars, collaborative problem-solving sessions, and engaging in mathematical research, students have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty and intricacies of mathematics. With a limited acceptance of around 80 high school students aged 14 and above, as well as 25 undergraduate counselors, PROMYS provides a close-knit community of like-minded individuals who share a love for math. The program also emphasizes the importance of diversity in STEM fields and actively encourages applications from underrepresented groups, including students who identify as female, African American, Hispanic, or belong to other marginalized communities. By participating in PROMYS, students not only deepen their mathematical knowledge but also develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and a strong foundation for future academic pursuits in STEM.

Profile in Courage Essay Contest by JFK Presidential Library

See website

Hosting Institution

John F. Kennedy Library

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Boston (MA)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Jan 12, 2024

Categories

Literature and Languages

Summary

The competition draws inspiration from JFK's book, "Profiles in Courage," which highlighted the stories of eight U.S. senators who demonstrated political courage by prioritizing the greater good even at the cost of their own careers. Participants are required to write a profile analyzing an act of political courage, similar to those portrayed in the book, for the competition. The first-place winner is granted a reward of $20,000. Additionally, there are twenty-five smaller cash prizes ranging from $100 to $1,000. The competition is open to high school students in the United States, specifically those in grades nine through twelve.

Pre-College: Coding Academy

See website

Hosting Institution

Tufts University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Medford (MA)

Cost

$4,000-$5,500

Application Deadline

Apr 30, 2024

Categories

Comp Sci

Summary

You will gain insights into computing and grow your skills through individual and small, group-based daily coding, discussion, and skills building sessions. Through these daily training sessions, you'll be able to better understand computing and coding, working within groups, and further expand your abilities.

Pre-College AI Scholars at Carnegie Mellon University

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

The AI Scholars program offers high school students a unique opportunity to engage in project-based learning and attend lectures covering various aspects of computing and artificial intelligence. Throughout the program, students collaborate on a group project, culminating in a presentation to their peers and instructors. Participating in this program not only enhances students' knowledge and skills in AI but also provides valuable assets for their college applications. Students receive a comprehensive evaluation, which can be included in their academic portfolios as supplementary materials when applying to colleges. Additionally, the program facilitates networking opportunities with industry leaders in the field of AI, further enriching students' understanding and connections in this rapidly evolving field.

Pre-Baccalaureate Summer Program for High School Students

See website

Hosting Institution

Brown University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Providence (RI)

Cost

$4,882

Application Deadline

May 22, 2024

Categories

Data Science

Summary

For students who are eager to earn college credit, Brown University offers the highly competitive Pre-Baccalaureate program. This program is designed for rising high school seniors or recent graduates who are prepared to engage in credit-bearing undergraduate coursework. Participants have the opportunity to enroll in classes alongside Brown undergraduates, providing an immersive and authentic college experience. The program offers a diverse range of academic disciplines, including natural sciences, mathematics, social sciences, humanities, and fine and performing arts. Students from all over the world and across the country come together to form a dedicated and intellectually stimulating community. By participating in this program, students can gain college credit while challenging themselves academically and preparing for their future academic pursuits.

Physics of Atomic Nuclei (PAN) by JINA-CEE

See website

Hosting Institution

Science Research

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

East Lansing (MI)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Mar 25, 2024

Categories

Comp Sci

Summary

The Particle Astrophysics and Nuclear Physics (PAN) program, organized by the Joint Institute for Nuclear Astrophysics - Center for the Evolution of the Elements, offers a unique and enriching experience for students interested in the study of atomic nuclei, astrophysics, and cosmology. This week-long program combines insightful lectures with hands-on laboratory work to explore the fascinating world of nuclear physics and its profound connection to our understanding of the universe. The highlight of the program is the opportunity to conduct nuclear physics experiments in a renowned rare-isotope laboratory, providing students with a firsthand experience in cutting-edge research. By delving into the intricacies of atomic nuclei and their role in astrophysical processes, participants in PAN gain valuable insights into the fundamental building blocks of matter and their significance in shaping the cosmos.

Physics of Atomic Nuclei (PAN)

See website

Hosting Institution

Michigan State University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

East Lansing (MI)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Mar 25, 2024

Categories

Physics

Summary

PAN is a free week-long program for current high school students who are US citizens (or DACA eligible).

Physics Bowl

See website

Hosting Institution

American Association of Physics Teachers

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Maryland (MD)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Feb 26, 2024

Categories

Physics

Summary

Physics Bowl is an exclusive competition open to high school students worldwide, designed to assess their knowledge of physics, including fundamental concepts, real-world applications, and modern physics. The competition is scored by the American Association of Physics Teachers. Participants are required to answer 40 multiple-choice questions within a time limit of 45 minutes. The exam is known for its difficulty, with an average score range of approximately 40-50%. To qualify for the international level of Physics Bowl, students must first compete in school-level, regional-level, and national-level rounds. The competition offers two divisions, one for first-year physics students and another for second-year physics students. Physics Bowl holds a prestigious reputation as one of the most competitive and esteemed physics competitions in the country. Engaging in the challenge and preparing for it is an excellent opportunity to enhance knowledge and develop analytical thinking skills.

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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