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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
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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

The Data Science Experience

See website

Hosting Institution

Carnegie Mellon University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Pittsburgh (PA)

Cost

$499

Application Deadline

Apr 9, 2024

Categories

Data Science, Comp Sci

Summary

High school participants enroll in two college-level classes and take part in existing research projects that require analyzing data sets, coding data, and using other essential software to glean key insights from large troves of information.....a connected set of opportunities to learn about how data science can be harnessed to answer questions across all disciplines. Activities are optional and cover broad topics with something for everyone. Students will be able to participate regardless of experience or background. Data sets, code, analyses, and resources will be maintained and available to all during and after the program. Explore the side menus to learn more!

Summer Neuroscience Program (SNP)

See website

Hosting Institution

The Rockefeller University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

New York (NY)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Mar 15, 2024

Categories

Neuroscience

Summary

The Summer Neuroscience Program (SNP) is a two-week course for NYC public high schoolers led by Rockefeller graduate students. Participants take a look at ongoing neuroscience research in an effort to understand how the brain works and how it relates to our daily life. We aim to introduce students to modern neuroscience. Applicants must be enrolled in a New York City public school, and must be at least 16 years of age by the start of the program.

Stanford AI4ALL

See website

Hosting Institution

Standord University

Online/In Person

Online

Location

No location

Cost

$4,000

Application Deadline

Mar 25, 2024

Categories

Comp Sci, Medicine, Social Sci...

Summary

Stanford AI4ALL aims to increase diversity in the field of artificial intelligence. During this three-week online program, students are immersed in AI through a combination of lectures, hands-on research projects, and mentoring activities. Participants engage with professionals in the field to learn about cutting-edge ideas, such as how AI can be applied in medicine, disaster response, and combatting poverty. Open to current 9th-grade students (rising 10th graders during the summer) eager to explore the exciting field of AI and increase diversity in the field.

Hosting Institution

Boston University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Boston (MA)

Cost

$6,100

Application Deadline

Mar 15, 2024

Categories

Mathematics

Summary

The Program in Mathematics for Young Scientists, or PROMYS, is a six-week intensive mathematics program designed for students across the globe. The program is held on Boston University’s campus. There are daily “Number Theory” lectures, and a great deal of independence for students to choose their own schedules and decide what they would like to study. In addition to the extensive learning opportunities, there is also “mandatory fun time” built into the weekly schedule so that students are able to have non-math related activities.

Climate Change Mitigation

See website

Hosting Institution

CIEE

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Monteverde, Costa Rica

Cost

$5,250

Application Deadline

May 1, 2024

Categories

Medicine

Summary

Immerse yourself in the realm of creativity and contribute towards mitigating climate change in one of the planet's most biologically diverse regions. Experience the breathtaking beauty of Costa Rica's lush rainforests while gaining an in-depth understanding of the science behind climate change. Explore the renowned Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and engage with local farmers, scientists, and activists to comprehend its impact on tropical ecosystems. As you step into the living laboratory of the CIEE Monteverde eco-campus, you'll have the opportunity to quantify the growth of tropical trees, estimate carbon stocks, and assess the environmental effects of greenhouse gases. Collaborate with fellow Global Navigators to devise innovative solutions for mitigating climate change. Together, let's unleash our creativity and make a positive impact on our planet.

Summer Research Internship

See website

Hosting Institution

Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Jupiter (FL)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Mar 4, 2024

Categories

Neuroscience, Engineering

Summary

Offers aspiring scientists an immersive laboratory experience with MPFI researchers. This six-week internship is designed for students with an interest in brain structure, function and development, and the advanced imaging techniques and technologies used in neuroscience. Interns will participate in research projects alongside MPFI scientists, prepare a written scientific abstract based on their research project, and deliver a short presentation at the end of the summer.

Future Scientist Program at IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center

See website

Hosting Institution

Indiana University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Indianapolis (IN)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Mar 1, 2024

Categories

Comp Sci, Medicine, Social Sci...

Summary

The Future Scientist Program at IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center is a summer science program for high school juniors at Indianapolis and all Marion County public schools, providing the opportunity to spend eight weeks on a research project under the mentorship of a university researcher. High school juniors with a keen interest in science and the ability to work independently and responsibly are encouraged to apply for the program

Summer Research Program (SRP) at IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center

See website

Hosting Institution

Indiana University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Indianapolis (IN)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Feb 29, 2024

Categories

Biology, Medicine

Summary

The Summer Research Program (SRP) at IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center aims to increase the number of high school and undergraduate students from underrepresented populations pursuing biomedical and behavioral science careers Selected participants are paired with a research mentor. Research projects may involve laboratory-based research, computer-based database research or clinical research. Students learn about research methodology and will complete a project over the summer months. They will present their findings at poster and oral presentation sessions.

MIT PRIMES

See website

Hosting Institution

MIT

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Cambridge (MA)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Nov 30, 2024

Categories

Biology, Quantitative, Comp Sc...

Summary

MIT PRIMES is a free, year-long program, in which high school students work on individual and group research projects and participate in reading groups under the guidance of academic mentors, usually graduate students or postdoctoral scholars. MIT PRIMES includes three sections: mathematics, computer science, and computational and physical biology.

AU High School Summer Scholars

See website

Hosting Institution

American University

Online/In Person

Online

Location

Washington, DC

Cost

$965

Application Deadline

May 30, 2024

Categories

Neuroscience, Psychology, Comp...

Summary

Oceanography: The world's oceans are our most abundant, precious, and threatened natural resource. In this course we will study the seas from a global perspective. Emphasis will be on chemical and physical oceanography as it affects both sea life and world economies. Students will apply scientific methods covering: geography, plate tectonics, climatology, meteorology, currents, waves/tides and productivity, as well as modern issues in oceanography.

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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