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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!

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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

Explore the program

Other programs

Congressional App Challenge

See website

Hosting Institution

Congressional App Challenge

Online/In Person

Online

Location

No location

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Nov 1, 2024

Categories

Comp Sci

Summary

The Congressional App Challenge is a district-wide competition hosted by members of the U.S. House of Representatives. The challenge is open to middle school and high school students and aims to promote problem-solving through coding. Students are encouraged to develop and submit their own original applications that address real-world challenges. The competition provides an opportunity for students to showcase their creativity and coding skills while addressing issues that are relevant to their communities.

Office of Naval Research Science and Engineering Apprentice Program

See website

Hosting Institution

SCIENCE & ENGINEERING

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

No location

Cost

$4000

Application Deadline

Nov 1, 2024

Categories

Engineering

Summary

The Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP) is a highly prestigious apprenticeship program offered by more than 20 naval laboratories across the United States. This competitive program provides around 300 placements each year and has proven to be a valuable stepping stone for many participants who pursue careers within the Department of the Navy (DoN). As an apprentice in the SEAP program, you will have the opportunity to work closely with research personnel who will act as mentors, providing guidance and support throughout the program. This hands-on experience allows you to engage in scientific and engineering practices that go beyond what is typically available in a school environment. Over the course of 8 weeks, you will gain firsthand experience in STEM fields, further developing your skills and knowledge. In addition to the invaluable learning experience, you will also receive a stipend for your participation in the program. The SEAP program offers a unique and positive opportunity for high school students to explore and deepen their understanding of careers in science and engineering.

Saper Law Immersion Program

See website

Hosting Institution

The Saper Law

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

No location

Cost

$750

Application Deadline

Jul 21, 2024

Categories

Business

Summary

The Saper Law Immersion Program offers a unique opportunity for students interested in pursuing a career in law or those curious about the legal profession. This program provides hands-on experience in the daily activities of a legal professional, including negotiation exercises, writing exercises, field trips, and mock legal proceedings. With a focus on areas such as social media, digital technology, entertainment, business, and internet law, students will engage in case studies that are relevant to these fields. Throughout the program, participants will learn from established professionals in the legal field, gaining valuable insights and knowledge. The program also emphasizes the development of debate skills, allowing students to practice and enhance their ability to argue and present their thoughts effectively. Whether you are considering a career in law or simply want to gain a deeper understanding of the legal profession, the Saper Law Immersion Program offers a comprehensive and engaging experience.

Systems Education Experiences (SEE) and Institute for Systems Biology’s (ISB) 8-Week Summer Internship for Rising Seniors

See website

Hosting Institution

ISB

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

No location

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Mar 15, 2024

Categories

Biology

Summary

ISB's formal summer internship program offers a paid opportunity for high school students interested in working at the Baliga Lab or other ISB Labs. This 8-week internship provides hands-on experience aligned with ongoing ISB initiatives under the guidance of a mentor. Participants will receive instruction in systems biology and apply their knowledge to a research project. Depending on the project, interns may also develop skills in scientific, engineering, mathematical, coding, and other computer-based disciplines. The program offers additional benefits such as the opportunity to interview ISB professionals, create a website documenting the internship experience and project, and contribute to school-based curricula development. The internship covers various topics including computational biology, microbial interactions, complex system resilience and collapse, the microbiome, microbial evolution, cancer research, systems medicine, and bioengineering using algae. It is a comprehensive and enriching experience for students interested in exploring the field of systems biology.

SEE and ISB’s Environmental Systems in the Outdoors Research Experience

See website

Hosting Institution

ISB

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

No location

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Mar 15, 2024

Categories

Biology

Summary

This program is an in-person, outdoor environmental STEM research experience for high school students in the Seattle area.You will meet at a field location 2-3 times a week, where you must work to define a local environmental system, analyze its health, conduct research, and explore results from an environmental stewardship perspective. You will have the opportunity to investigate several environmental science issues, such as climate change, fungal invasion, microbial community interactions, and nitrogen and microplastic pollution. The program will conclude with a project showcase

National Student Leadership Conference Programs at Georgetown University

See website

Hosting Institution

National Student Leadership Conference

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

No location

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Jun 16, 2024

Categories

Architecture

Summary

The National Student Leadership Conference (NSLC) has been providing exceptional high school students with engaging and dynamic summer programs for over three decades. These sessions offer participants the opportunity to develop vital leadership abilities and gain exposure to potential career paths. Through hands-on simulations, field trips, and interactive discussions with prominent professionals in their selected fields, students can explore their interests and enhance their leadership skills. The NSLC aims to empower students and inspire them to become future leaders in their respective fields.

Michigan State University’s ANR Institute for Multicultural Students (AIMS)

See website

Hosting Institution

Michigan State University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

No location

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Apr 15, 2024

Categories

Engineering

Summary

Michigan State University (MSU) offers a unique and diverse program for high school students interested in exploring careers in agriculture sciences and natural resources. The program provides a comprehensive understanding of various fields such as environmental science, agribusiness, agriculture engineering, and agriculture education. Through demonstrations, tours, and hands-on activities, students gain practical experience and insight into these areas. Additionally, MSU also offers the Multicultural Apprenticeship Program, a four-week research mentorship program that provides students with valuable research experiences in a supportive environment. These programs at MSU offer students the opportunity to delve into their interests and gain exposure to exciting career paths in agriculture and related fields.

John Hopkins Internship in Brain Sciences

See website

Hosting Institution

The Johns Hopkins University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

No location

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Mar 1, 2024

Categories

Neuroscience

Summary

The Johns Hopkins internship program is designed to introduce students from underrepresented backgrounds to the field of neurological sciences. Through this highly selective program, interns are matched with scientists for research projects and have the opportunity to engage in clinical rotations with experienced neurologists. The program also includes seminars and professional development sessions to enhance students' knowledge and skills. While the 2023 deadline has passed, this information can guide prospective applicants for the 2024 program, emphasizing the importance of applying early and thoroughly reviewing the program's requirements.

Summer Science Institute

See website

Hosting Institution

Bethel College

Online/In Person

Online

Location

No location

Cost

$50

Application Deadline

Apr 15, 2024

Categories

Neuroscience

Summary

The Late spring Science Establishment offers potential chances to partake in research examinations in brain science. The foundation is available to understudies entering grades 10-12. Notwithstanding their field, understudies will find out about gathering information, testing theories, utilizing factual programming, composing code, and so on.

Young Scholars Program

See website

Hosting Institution

Northeastern University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Boston (MA)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Mar 15, 2024

Categories

Data Science

Summary

The Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR) is a highly competitive and prestigious program designed for high school students interested in medicine and biomedical research. As a SIMR participant, you will have the opportunity to work in a cutting-edge laboratory setting alongside Stanford faculty, researchers, and students. The program includes hands-on research experience, seminars, workshops, and scientific presentations to enhance your understanding of the scientific process and medical research. SIMR offers a comprehensive and immersive experience that can greatly contribute to your knowledge, skills, and passion for medicine and biomedical sciences.

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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