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
Stanford Medicine Art & Anatomy Summer Program
See websiteSummary
The Art & Anatomy Program is a 2-week summer immersion in visual storytelling. We offer both an in-person, and a virtual program. The program will include a speaker series from leading anatomists, physicians, and creatives whose work blend art and medicine. This will be followed by a week of drawing mentorship to develop a resolved final illustration. Students will present their final projects to a panel of artists, museum curators, and physicians.
Virtual Research Training Program (VRTP)
See websiteSummary
The Virtual Research Training Program (VRTP) is an online program with a competitive application process, and is open to local, national and international students.
Research Training Program (RTP)
See websiteSummary
The Research Training Program (RTP) is an in-person program with a competitive application process and is intended for local students who live within a two-hour commute of downtown Seattle. This is for students from backgrounds that are historically underrepresented in the biomedical and health sciences.
Neuroscience Camp
See websiteSummary
In this program, students will gain an understanding of the foundational concepts of neuroscience as well as basic lab techniques in molecular neurobiology, neurophysiology, and neuroanatomy. The curriculum consists of a series of lectures, followed by laboratory work that covers data analysis, research techniques, and project presentation.
Sea Changes: A History of the World's Oceans
See websiteSummary
A survey course in global history that takes the world’s oceans as its subject. Students will explore themes ranging from naval history to legal history, from environmental history to zoological history, and from the history of exploration and adventure to the history of imperialism and conquest. Students will work with primary and secondary sources and develop their analytical and writing skills.
The Wistar Institute High School Program in Biomedical Research
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Wistar’s High School Fellowship in Biomedical Research has offered high school students the opportunity to take part in hands-on research projects in cancer biology, vaccine development, and infectious diseases. This summer, students will spend three weeks training in cutting edge biomedical laboratory techniques and contributing to real Wistar science in our state-of-the-art Training Lab. Students will learn to read scientific literature, explore multiple careers in biomedical research, and present their work at the end of the program. Students must be at least 16 years of age, and successfully completed at least one high school science course
Business Opportunities Summer Session (BOSS)
See websiteSummary
BOSS is a two-week in-person program held at Penn State's University Park campus, intended for high school students interested in pursuing a business education in college. Penn State faculty teach college preparation and fundamental business courses during the program, allowing students to gain valuable knowledge in these areas.
Summer High School Internship Program
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This multi-week paid summer research temporary job at Fred Box is available to ascending secondary school seniors. The Pen has gained notoriety for its spearheading research in organic sciences, bone marrow and undifferentiated cell transplantation, disease avoidance, the study of disease transmission, and biostatistics. The program offers payment to understudies for their cooperation
Ross Mathematics Program (Ross/USA Program)
See websiteSummary
The Ross Program is an intensive summer experience designed to encourage motivated pre-college students to explore mathematics. During those weeks, students are immersed in a world of mathematical discovery. Our central goal has always been to instruct bright young students in the art of mathematical thinking and to inspire them to discover for themselves that abstract ideas are valuable and important. First year participants take the basic course in number theory. For most students, this is the first time they are asked to consider entirely new questions, to develop methods that they have not seen before, and to justify every answer.
City of Hope's Eugene and Ruth Roberts Summer Student Academy
See websiteSummary
Unlike traditional high school or college classes where the course of study is entirely set by the instructor, City of Hope’s summer program students select their own research project according to their individual areas of interest. Selected participants then spend 10 weeks working full-time as a member of a biomedical research team. Our world-renowned physicians and scientists serve as mentors, guiding students in their research, while helping them develop their critical 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.