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!
What research opportunity are you looking for?
Hosting Institution
Polygence
Online/In Person
Online
Cost
Contact us to learn more
Application Deadline
Mar 16, 2026
Categories
Biology, Business, Chemistry, Computer Sci, Econ, Engineering, Humanities, Medicine, Neuro, Psychology
Hosting Institution
Polygence
Online/In Person
Online
Cost
Starting at $495
Application Deadline
Varies by program
Categories
Biology, Computer Science, Economics, Engineering, Humanities, Mathematics, Other
Other programs
HKU TouchStart Science Summer Programme
See websiteSummary
HKU TouchStart Science Summer Programme is a 3-day interactive summer workshops led by the enthusiastic researchers of HKU Science. Through talks, lab visits, demonstration, group projects and more, you will get the chance to delve deeper into more advanced topics in the scientific limelight. Embark on your journey into the exciting world of science and ignite your scientific inspiration!
HKU Junior Science Institute
See websiteSummary
Junior Science Institute (JSI) was introduced by the Faculty in 2009. It offers fun-filled science workshops and science-rich experiences to scientifically inclined senior secondary school students. We have designed a series of workshops and hands-on learning programmes for students to expose to different science disciplines. Through a variety of inspiring workshops, laboratory exercises, lectures and other interactive activities, participants are able to embark on a journey of science exploration.
Hong Kong Physics Olympiad
See websiteSummary
The Hong Kong Physics Olympiad (HKPhO) has been organised since 2003 to promote physics education in Hong Kong and provide an enhancement platform for students with high potential in physics. It also serves to identify outstanding students with good potential in physics and prepare them to participate in the IPhO.
CityU Gifted Education Fund: Generative AI and AIoT (GenAIoT) Coding Skills Education for Gifted Students
See websiteSummary
The Generative AI and AIoT (GenAIoT) Coding Skills Education for Gifted Students programme aims to equip gifted students with essential knowledge related to artificial intelligence (AI), generative AI (GenAI) and AI internet of things (AIoT) technologies, engineering and mathematics, problem solving abilities, as well as other hands-on skills including software and hardware programming.
PolyU Summer Institute
See websiteSummary
The PolyU Summer Institute 2024 is designed for Secondary 4 and Secondary 5 students, or equivalent, to have an immersive university experience at our campus and in Hong Kong. Interested students may choose to enrol in either (i) a residential camp (5 days, 4 nights); or (ii) a credit-bearing course (1 week) and a residential camp (5 days, 4 nights).
PolyU Junior Researcher Mentoring Programme
See websiteSummary
Junior Researcher Mentoring Programme provides secondary school students with the chance to participate in various research projects under the guidance of PolyU academics, thereby opening the door for their future research endeavors.
HKUST Summer Institute
See websiteSummary
HKUST Summer Institute aims at providing an opportunity for high school students to experience learning and teaching at the Hong Kong University of Science & Technology (HKUST) and prepare them for future study.A wide range of credit-bearing courses are offered and delivered by our faculty members from the Schools of Science, Engineering, Business and Management, as well as Humanities and Social Science. In addition to learning new scopes of knowledge, students can broaden their perspectives, and develop their social and professional networks through our courses. The course credit earned can be counted towards students' undergraduate studies at HKUST in the future.
CityU Summer Research Internship
See websiteSummary
The Summer Research Internship provides opportunities for secondary school students to undertake engineering-related research attachments for approximately one month at CityU during the summer 2024. Students will be actively engaged in CityU laboratories under the supervision of CityU PhD students and a faculty member as an advisor.
CUHK Science Academy for Young Talent – Summer and Autume Coursn
See websiteSummary
Science Academy for Young Talent is established by the Faculty of Science, CUHK in 2010. It aims at nurturing secondary school students who are talented in science by providing them with different enrichment courses. Courses offered in the Academy are organised by different departments or units in the Faculty. Students’ efforts are recognised in terms of university credit exemptions or award of certificates, depending on the category that the course belongs to.
CUHK The Summer Program for the Gifted and Talented
See websiteSummary
Gifted and talented students often have special learning needs and styles. Summer Program for the Gifted and Talented is designed to provide diverse stimulating and highly challenging off-school learning opportunities for gifted students, and aims to help them explore and develop their talents and potential in an enriched learning environment. A wide variety of courses and workshops are open to application for Primary 3 through Secondary 6 students. Instructors are professors and lecturers of the Chinese University of Hong Kong, experienced teachers in gifted education, and experts in different professions.
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.