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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

What research opportunity are you looking for?

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

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

Essentials of Finance

See website

Hosting Institution

The University of Pennsylvania

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Philadelphia (PA)

Cost

$7,599

Application Deadline

Apr 3, 2024

Categories

Business

Summary

The Essentials of Finance program is highly sought after and provides an introduction to personal and corporate finance, covering crucial concepts such as the time value of money, risk and return trade-offs, and equities. Drawing inspiration from Wharton's undergraduate finance program, the curriculum includes case studies and real-world applications. Distinguished faculty members, lecturers, and PhD students from Wharton lead lectures and presentations, while students work collaboratively in small teams to complete an analysis project.

Entrepreneurship Academy

See website

Hosting Institution

Georgetown University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Washington (DC)

Cost

$5,775

Application Deadline

May 15, 2024

Categories

Business

Summary

The Entrepreneurship Academy is a two-week program that delves into the benefits and difficulties of managing your own business. The program covers topics such as choosing a start-up, prototype testing, market research, social innovation, global business, and operations. Participants will engage with accomplished entrepreneurs from various industries to gain insights into what it takes to succeed in any profession. There seems to be limited information available about the faculty helping with this program, so maybe see if you can find out more about the staff before choosing this program

Engineering Academy

See website

Hosting Institution

Oxford University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Oxford (UK)

Cost

£6,495-6,995 GBP

Application Deadline

Dec 31, 2023

Categories

Engineering, Mathematics

Summary

You’ll gain insights into key concepts and get an authentic taste of what it’s like to study Engineering at university. You’ll achieve all of this while studying and socialising on the historic Oxford University campus, being taught by the very best tutors and making friends with students from all over the world.

Engineer Girl Annual Essay Contest

See website

Hosting Institution

EngineerGirl Home

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Washington (DC)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Feb 1, 2024

Categories

Literature and Languages

Summary

Engineer Girl hosts an annual essay contest that focuses on the impact of engineering on the world. Students have the chance to win up to $500 in prize money. This competition offers an excellent opportunity to combine English language writing with STEM research. Submissions can be sent online. The contest is open to both girls and boys in three competition categories: Elementary School students (grades 3-5), Middle School students (grades 6-8), and High School students (grades 9-12). The word limit for submissions varies depending on the grade level.

Embry–Riddle Aeronautical University Robotics & Autonomous Systems Camp

See website

Hosting Institution

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Daytona Beach (FL)

Cost

$1,000

Application Deadline

Apr 4, 2024

Categories

Data Science

Summary

The Embry-Riddle summer program is dedicated to exploring the exciting field of robotics and autonomous systems. Participants will collaborate with experienced faculty and undergraduate students who are part of robotics competition teams to design and test their own autonomous robots. Through hands-on activities, students will integrate concepts from mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering, gaining valuable skills applicable to future careers in engineering and robotics. This immersive program provides a unique opportunity for students to delve into the cutting-edge advancements in the field, fostering their passion for robotics and preparing them for exciting future endeavors in the engineering industry.

Embry–Riddle Aeronautical University - Aerospace Camp

See website

Hosting Institution

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Daytona Beach (FL)

Cost

$4,700

Application Deadline

Apr 4, 2024

Categories

Data Science

Summary

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University presents an exceptional opportunity for high school students to engage in a four-week summer camp that provides a glimpse into the college experience and delves into diverse career paths within the fields of flight, mechanical engineering, global security, and NASA astronautics. The program encompasses a broad range of captivating topics, including space flight history, propulsion theory, orbital mechanics, Space Shuttle operations, and US space policy. By participating in this program, students not only gain valuable knowledge but also earn three college credits upon successful completion. It is a remarkable chance to explore their interests, expand their horizons, and immerse themselves in the fascinating world of aeronautics and space exploration.

Ecology and Evolutionary Biology

See website

Hosting Institution

Cornell University

Online/In Person

Online

Location

No location

Cost

$5,040

Application Deadline

Dec 4, 2023

Categories

Social Science

Summary

This course provides an introduction to ecology, covering interactions between organisms and the environment at scales of populations, communities, and ecosystems. Ecological principles are used to explore the theory and applications of major issues facing humanity in the 21st century, including population dynamics, disease ecology, biodiversity and invasive species, global change, and other topics of environmental sustainability.

DSI Summer Lab

See website

Hosting Institution

The University of Chicago

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Chicago (IL)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Jan 16, 2024

Categories

Data Science, Quantitative, Hi...

Summary

An immersive 10-week paid summer research program at the University of Chicago. In the program, high school and undergraduate students are paired with a data science mentor in various domains, including: computer science, data science, social science, climate and energy policy, public policy, materials science, and biomedical research. Through this pairing the research assistant will engage with and hone their skills in research methodologies, practices, and teamwork. Eligible high school and undergraduate students, are paired with projects in the Social Impact Track (more details below). We encourage participation from a broad range of students, and require no prior research experience to apply.

Diamond Challenge

See website

Hosting Institution

THE DIAMOND CHALLENGE

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Newark (DE)

Cost

$100,000

Application Deadline

Mar 1, 2024

Categories

Social Science

Summary

THE DIAMOND CHALLENGEThe Diamond Challenge, organized by the University of Delaware, offers an exciting opportunity for students to explore entrepreneurship and pitch their startup ideas. Participants can choose to present their ideas in either the business or social innovation category, allowing for a wide range of creative and impactful concepts. The competition consists of five rounds, starting with a submission round where participants outline their ideas. The subsequent rounds include a pitch round, two semi-finals, and a final round. These progressive stages allow participants to refine their ideas, receive feedback, and compete against other talented individuals. The competition fosters innovation, leadership, and critical thinking skills as participants develop their business or social innovation plans. The Diamond Challenge provides a platform for aspiring entrepreneurs to showcase their ideas, gain valuable experience in pitching and entrepreneurship, and potentially launch their own ventures.

Davidson THINK Summer Institute

See website

Hosting Institution

Davidson Institute

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Reno (NV)

Cost

$4,350

Application Deadline

Apr 27, 2024

Categories

History

Summary

The Davidson Institute offers a highly regarded three-week residential program that includes a comprehensive world history course. This course delves into the study of the earliest civilizations in Asia, North Africa, the Americas, and Europe. The program seeks students who demonstrate exceptional achievements not only in academics but also in social and emotional maturity, making it relatively selective in its admissions process. Additionally, participating students have the opportunity to earn college credit, which can potentially be transferred to their chosen school or college, subject to the specific transfer policies of each institution.

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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