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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

Contact us to learn more

Application Deadline

Mar 16, 2026

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

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Other programs

Summer Internship at Alaska Songbird Institute

See website

Hosting Institution

Alaska Songbird Institute

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Fairbanks, AK

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Apr 28, 2024

Categories

Biology

Summary

ASI’s high school internship program offers students aged 14-18 a chance to delve into research, wildlife, and conservation careers. Interns participate in the Swallow Ecology Project, monitoring Tree Swallow nests, recording data, and assisting in bird banding. The program runs from May 13 to July 19, requiring approximately 8-10 hours per week. Morning and afternoon shifts are available, with the most intensive work from June 12-30. Interns must be available during this period. Applicants should have a passion for wildlife and conservation, a strong work ethic, and good communication skills. The program aims to provide hands-on experience in field research and encourages teamwork among participants of various ages. Successful completion of a minimum of 85 hours earns interns a $500 stipend.

Summer High School Internship Program

See website

Hosting Institution

Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Homer, AK

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Apr 5, 2024

Categories

Biology

Summary

The Center for Alaskan Coastal Studies offers a High School Internship Program aiming to provide practical experiences in scientific monitoring, nature interpretation, public relations, or gardening. Open to rising high school juniors, seniors, and recent graduates, the program offers outdoor work, mentorship, and $12.50/hr pay. Interns commit to at least 20 hours/week, completing projects and attending training sessions. Application includes contact information, a student-guardian agreement, and a questionnaire assessing previous experiences and interests.

Computer Science Scholars (CSS)

See website

Hosting Institution

Carnegie Mellon University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Pittsburgh (PA)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Mar 1, 2024

Categories

Comp Sci

Summary

Students take a deep dive into the world of computer science through a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on research projects, faculty lectures, and industry engagement with leading tech companies around the country. As a CS Scholar you will engage in college-level courses in computer programming and mathematics, as well as weekly seminars that explore college admissions, financial aid, building independence, mental health, emotional wellness, and more. You will be given the opportunity to develop meaningful connections with peers and mentors while being fully immersed in the college experience. A core value of CS Pathways and the CS Scholars program is building an inclusive, anti-racist environment. You will be expected to uphold this value and to participate in discussions about equity within STEM education and society.

Eco-Marathon by Shell

See website

Hosting Institution

More in Shell Eco-marathon

Online/In Person

Online

Location

No location

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Mar 31, 2024

Categories

Engineering

Summary

The Shell Eco-Marathon is a globally recognized competition that encourages students to design and construct energy-efficient vehicles. Participants have the option to compete in two main categories: UrbanConcept, which focuses on creating vehicles for everyday use, and Prototype, which aims to achieve the highest fuel efficiency possible. The competition includes a main race where vehicles are evaluated based on completion time and energy efficiency. Regional rounds and a World Championship series provide opportunities for teams to showcase their creations on an international stage. It is important for participants to carefully review the specific requirements and rules for each event they wish to enter. The Shell Eco-Marathon offers an exciting platform for students to apply their engineering skills, push the boundaries of energy efficiency, and contribute to the development of sustainable transportation solutions.

embARC Summer Design Academy

See website

Hosting Institution

University of California (Berkeley)

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Berkeley (CA)

Cost

$7,665

Application Deadline

Apr 3, 2024

Categories

Social Science, Arts, Quantita...

Summary

A four-week long program hosted by UC Berkeley’s School of Environmental Design. If you’re looking for arts summer programs that are design-centric or centered around environmental studies, this could be a suitable option for you. Students at EmBARC study urban design, architecture, and sustainable city components. Throughout the program, students have access to the Cal Architecture and Urban Design Studio. You’ll also have the chance to participate in a Sustainable City Planning workshop, a Digital Design workshop, as well as engage in an Environmental Design Conversations Series and a Community Build project.

Experimental Physics Research Academy

See website

Hosting Institution

The University of Pennsylvania

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Philadelphia (PA)

Cost

$0-$9,775

Application Deadline

May 1, 2024

Categories

Physics

Summary

The Experimental Physics Research Academy focuses on current physics, specifically mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum dynamics, and astrophysics. Through lectures, activities, projects, and discussions with their instructors, students move past memorized equations to gain an understanding of cause and effect, and ultimately an appreciation of physics on a higher level. Each week there are several research talks given by Penn faculty members about their fields of specialization and active research, which include question-and-answer sessions with our students.

National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)’s Recruitment & Training for Under-Represented Populations (RTURP) Program

See website

Hosting Institution

Institute for Broadening Participation

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Damariscotta (ME)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Feb 1, 2024

Categories

Data Science

Summary

The Recruitment & Training Program for Under-represented Populations is an intramural initiative focused on offering training opportunities to students interested in the scientific aspects of drug abuse. This program places particular emphasis on students from under-represented communities. Participants have the chance to attend classes and acquire knowledge about research practices as part of the broader Intramural Research Program (IRP).

NSPC Health Science Competition

See website

Hosting Institution

Center for Science Teaching and Learning

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Rockville Centre (NY)

Cost

From $22

Application Deadline

No deadline

Categories

Medicine

Summary

The NSPC Health Science Competition, organized by the Center for Science Teaching & Learning (CSTL), is an exciting opportunity for high school students to showcase their innovation and research in the field of medicine. Similar in design to the renowned Regeneron ISEF competition, NSPC invites teams of up to three members to participate from all around the country. In the first round, participants must create a comprehensive website that highlights their research, results, and includes a discussion and abstract presented through various mediums such as videos, digital poster boards, or presentations. The entries are evaluated by medical professionals, and successful participants move on to the second round. In the second round, participants have the chance to present their research to a panel of judges. The NSPC Health Science Competition welcomes entries in categories such as Behavioral Sciences, Microbiology/Genetics, Medicine/Health, Biochemistry/Biophysics, and Computational Biology. By participating in this competition, students have the opportunity to demonstrate their passion and talent in the medical field and gain recognition for their innovative research.

Pennsylvania Governor's School for the Sciences (PGSS)

See website

Hosting Institution

Pennsylvania Governor's School for the Sciences

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Williamsport (PA)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Jan 30, 2024

Categories

Mathematics

Summary

The Pennsylvania Governor's School for the Sciences (PGSS) is a highly competitive and prestigious program designed to provide gifted high school students with an exceptional academic experience. Over the course of five weeks, students immerse themselves in advanced coursework and research opportunities in subjects such as mathematics, computer science, physics, chemistry, and biology. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, with students engaging in lab work, team projects, and the creation of formal scientific papers that may be published in the PGSS journal. Additionally, students have the opportunity to attend guest lectures and utilize cutting-edge technology at Carnegie Mellon University. PGSS offers a transformative experience that not only expands students' knowledge and skills in the sciences but also fosters intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and collaboration among a community of talented peers.

Stanford EXPLORE: Lecture Series

See website

Hosting Institution

Stanford University

Online/In Person

Online

Location

No location

Cost

$1,500

Application Deadline

Mar 31, 2024

Categories

Neuroscience, Biology, Enginee...

Summary

The Stanford Explore Lecture Series is an exploratory series covering the basic fundamentals and current research areas represented by the various research areas of the Stanford School of Medicine (Immunology, Neuroscience, Regenerative and Stem Cell Medicine, Cancer Biology, Bioengineering and Bioinformatics). The lectures will be taught by graduate students and postdoctoral fellows along with some lectures taught by Faculty.

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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