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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

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

Brown Leadership Institute On-Campus

See website

Hosting Institution

Brown University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Providence (RI)

Cost

$4,318-$5,498

Application Deadline

May 11, 2024

Categories

Social Science

Summary

Through the Brown Leadership Institute, you’ll increase your understanding of complex social issues and your ability to advance social justice. Through both methods of learning, you’ll meet students from all over the world who are passionate about a wide variety of issues, including topics such as social entrepreneurship, racial justice, law and social movements and gender equity. You will spend your days delving into compelling topics in a course of your choosing, actively engaging with your peers and instructor. As you grapple with complex problems and brainstorm possible solutions together, you will practice a collaborative model of leadership honing your skills in active listening, public speaking, problem-solving, conflict resolution and teamwork. Building on all of this new knowledge, you’ll develop an Action Plan you can take home and apply in your school or community.

Brown Leadership Institute

See website

Hosting Institution

Brown University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

No location

Cost

$5,314

Application Deadline

May 10, 2024

Categories

Data Science

Summary

This program, known as the Brown Leadership Institute, focuses on empowering students with the skills and knowledge to make a positive impact in our dynamic society. The program centers around three core values: the study of engaging academic subjects, the exploration of socially responsible leadership, and the development of meaningful action plans. Students have the opportunity to delve into compelling topics such as the future of science, technology, and medicine; conflict resolution; global health; and law and social change. The program provides a range of courses that aim to cultivate leadership skills and promote responsible leadership practices. To explore the current course offerings, students can refer to the program's website for more information.

Brown Experiential Education (BEE)

See website

Hosting Institution

Brown University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Providence (RI)

Cost

$7,534

Application Deadline

May 10, 2024

Categories

Data Science

Summary

The Brown Experiential Education (BEE) program is a two-week language immersion program designed for students interested in learning Italian or enhancing their Spanish skills. The program emphasizes an organic and immersive approach to language learning by immersing students in another country's culture and language. Whether it's ordering coffee or gelato in Rome or exploring the rich history of Spain through museum visits and other experiences, students have the opportunity to actively engage with the language in real-life contexts. The BEE program is intentionally small and caters specifically to individuals passionate about languages, offering a focused and intensive learning experience.

Brown Environmental Leadership Labs (BELL)

See website

Hosting Institution

Brown University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Providence (RI)

Cost

$6,958

Application Deadline

May 10, 2024

Categories

Data Science

Summary

Brown Environmental Leadership Labs (BELL) is a distinctive summer camp tailored for high school students, with a focus on environmental topics. The program offers hands-on outdoor learning, community service initiatives, and art projects, creating a multidimensional approach to environmental education. BELL introduces students to science subjects such as biology and environmental science through engaging hands-on activities involving live animals and plants. Additionally, students have the opportunity to actively explore their community through participation in community service projects like tree planting and park cleanup. BELL is dedicated to providing an educational experience that is both enjoyable and enlightening. The program takes place on three beautiful campuses, offering students an immersive and inspiring environment for active and experiential learning.

Broad Summer Scholars Program

See website

Hosting Institution

Broad Institute

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Cambridge (MA)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Jan 22, 2024

Categories

Biology, Chemistry, Quantitati...

Summary

The Broad Summer Scholars Program (BSSP) invites highly motivated high school students with a strong interest in science to spend six weeks at the Broad Institute. We match students with Broad scientists to conduct original, cutting-edge research projects in areas such as: cancer biology, psychiatric disease, chemical biology, computational biology, infectious disease, and more. In addition to original research, students will get to explore scientific careers; attend interesting scientific talks; present their research to the Broad community in a scientific poster session; attend a college fair; participate in fun social events; and meet other students who share similar interests. The application for the Summer 2023 Broad Summer Scholars Program is now closed. Please check back in November 2023 for the upcoming application cycle. Be a rising senior in high school (i.e. students can apply their junior year) Attend a high school in MA within commuting distance to the Broad.

Biomedical Research Academy

See website

Hosting Institution

The University of Pennsylvania

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Philadelphia (PA)

Cost

$0-$9,775

Application Deadline

Apr 30, 2024

Categories

Medicine, Biology

Summary

The Biomedical Research Academy introduces the experimental basis of cellular, molecular, and genetic aspects of biology, focusing on relevance to diseases. Fusing daily lectures, faculty research talks, laboratory experiments, and small group investigations into current research topics, students gain insight into the core of biomedical research.

Biomedical Camps by Rosetta Institute

See website

Hosting Institution

Rosetta Institute

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

San Jose (CA)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Jun 17, 2024

Categories

Biology

Summary

The Rosetta Institute of Biomedical Sciences is a privately funded institute that focuses on biomedical research, offers scientific editing services, and organizes summer workshops for high school and middle school students. These workshops cover a range of subjects in the field of biomedicine, providing participants with valuable knowledge and hands-on experience. Topics include molecular immunology, medicinal chemistry, cellular and molecular medicine, molecular biology of aging, medical bioinformatics, emerging pathogenic viruses, and biomedical research. During the workshops, students engage in discussion sessions, lectures, guided laboratory research, and critical thinking activities, which contribute to their academic development and foster their interest in biomedicine and related fields. The residential programs take place at affiliated campuses, such as the University of California, Berkeley, University of California, Los Angeles, and University of California, San Diego, offering students a unique opportunity to experience college life in a safe and enriching environment.

Berkeley: Business Academy for Youth: High School Entrepreneurship

See website

Hosting Institution

University of California (Berkeley)

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Berkeley (CA)

Cost

$6,050-$7,050

Application Deadline

Mar 14, 2024

Categories

Business

Summary

"B-BAY, a proven business program for youth, lets you experience the powerful combination of great ideas and great business sense by developing a business idea and creating your team’s business plan–all in just two weeks. Every year, 50 high-school students from around the globe spend two weeks learning at B-BAY, where: - They immerse themselves in the culture, academics, and life at Berkeley - Berkeley Haas professors and corporate guest speakers share their insights and real-world experience - Classroom instruction is supplemented with independent research and computer lab assignments and team projects - Teams work together to create a comprehensive business plan - Teams present their business plans at the end of the session "

Berkeley Pre-College Scholars: Summer Residential Track

See website

Hosting Institution

University of California (Berkeley)

Online/In Person

Online

Location

Berkeley (CA)

Cost

$15,800

Application Deadline

Mar 10, 2024

Categories

Literature and Languages

Summary

The pre-college program at the University of California, Berkeley offers a diverse range of literature courses, making it an excellent choice for those interested in English Literature. The program covers a variety of topics, including The Horror Genre, Science Fiction, Intro to Popular Fiction, Sally Rooney: Popularity and the Popular, Thinking Through Memory in Poetry and Fiction, Literature and Psychology, Rise of the Young Adult, Epic Poetry, Modes of Writing, and more. This extensive selection allows students to delve into specific areas of literature that align with their interests and passions. Whether you are intrigued by genres like horror and science fiction or want to explore the intersection of literature and psychology, this program provides a rich and immersive experience. Through engaging coursework, discussions, and analysis, participants have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of literature and develop critical thinking and analytical skills. The University of California, Berkeley's pre-college program in literature is an ideal platform for students eager to explore and appreciate various aspects of literary studies.

Berkeley Business Academy for Youth (B-BAY)

See website

Hosting Institution

University of California (Berkeley)

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Berkeley (CA)

Cost

California resident tuition: $6,050 Out-of-state resident tuition: $7,050

Application Deadline

Mar 15, 2024

Categories

Business

Summary

The two-week course offers students a comprehensive introduction to essential skills such as teamwork, communication, presentation, business planning, and research methods. With a small cohort size of only 50 students, participants can enjoy a more personalized and immersive learning experience. The program not only focuses on academic learning but also provides opportunities for students to engage in campus life and social activities. Guest lectures from industry experts add value to the curriculum and expose students to real-world insights. The highlight of the course is the collaborative team project, where students work together to create a business plan and present it at the conclusion of the program. Interactions with UC Berkeley undergraduate students further enhance the learning environment and allow for valuable networking opportunities.

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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