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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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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

Jul 15, 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

Howard Hughes Medical Institute Jump Start Program

See website

Hosting Institution

Mathematical and Natural Sciences (University of Maryland)

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Maryland (MD)

Cost

$250

Application Deadline

Apr 15, 2024

Categories

Biology

Summary

The STEM program at the University of Maryland offers a highly selective and immersive week-long summer experience focused on biomedical science research. This program provides a unique opportunity for 50 students to engage in hands-on learning, seminars, and professional development sessions in a university setting. To be eligible for the program, students must be current high school juniors or seniors who have successfully completed the AP Biology and Chemistry curricula. This prerequisite ensures that participants have a strong foundation in the relevant scientific disciplines, enabling them to fully benefit from the program. The application process for the program typically involves submitting transcripts showcasing academic performance and a letter of reference from a scientific instructor who can attest to the student's aptitude and passion for science. Additionally, students are required to write a personal statement describing an event or person that sparked their interest in science. This personal statement allows applicants to express their motivations, aspirations, and unique experiences that have influenced their journey in STEM. Once selected, students have the opportunity to spend a week on the University of Maryland campus, where they are immersed in a stimulating environment dedicated to biomedical science research. Throughout the program, participants engage in a variety of activities designed to broaden their knowledge and skills in the field. Seminars led by faculty members and industry professionals provide insights into cutting-edge research, advancements, and emerging trends in biomedical science. These seminars expose students to a range of topics and disciplines within the field, allowing them to explore different areas of interest and expand their understanding. In addition to the educational sessions, the program also includes professional development sessions. These sessions focus on essential skills such as scientific communication, research methodology, and ethical considerations in scientific research. By participating in these sessions, students develop important skills that are valuable for their future academic and professional endeavors. The program creates a collaborative and supportive environment where students can interact with like-minded peers who share a passion for science. This allows for the exchange of ideas, networking opportunities, and the potential for lasting connections within the scientific community. By participating in the STEM program at the University of Maryland, students gain exposure to real-world research settings and experiences. This hands-on approach allows them to apply their knowledge, develop critical thinking skills, and gain a deeper understanding of the scientific research process. Overall, the program provides a unique and enriching experience for motivated high school juniors and seniors interested in biomedical science. By participating in seminars, professional development sessions, and engaging in a week of immersive research-focused activities, students are equipped with valuable insights, skills, and experiences that can shape their future academic and professional pursuits in the field of biomedical science.

Medical Internship Navigating Diversity and Science (MINDS)

See website

Hosting Institution

Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Nutley (NJ)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Apr 5, 2024

Categories

Medicine

Summary

The MINDS (Medical Internship Navigating Diversity and Science) program offered by the Hackensack Meridian School of Medicine is a valuable opportunity for students from underprivileged backgrounds to explore the field of medicine and gain hands-on experience. Throughout the internship, you will have the chance to learn about various medical fields, delve into topics like human biology and the social determinants of health, and develop a deeper understanding of health disparities. The program also provides important certifications such as CPR/BLS and Narcan Certification, as well as SAT Prep for one year to support your academic goals. Hands-on medical experience is a key component of the program, allowing you to observe medical professionals in action and engage in meaningful projects related to health disparities in New Jersey. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to visit community organizations, universities, and hospitals through organized field trips. MINDS offers a comprehensive and enriching experience that can inspire and prepare you for a future in the medical field.

MATE (Marine Advanced Technology Education) ROV Competition

See website

Hosting Institution

Mate Rov Competition

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Monterey (CA)

Cost

$250-$450

Application Deadline

Apr 26, 2024

Categories

Engineering

Summary

The underwater robotics competition provides students with an exciting opportunity to apply their technical skills and creativity to address sustainability challenges in marine and freshwater ecosystems. With regional and global rounds, participants compete against students from different countries, showcasing their innovative underwater robots. The competition offers five different levels of difficulty, allowing students to choose the appropriate level based on their skills and experience. Previous challenges have focused on diverse tasks such as documenting environmental changes, surveying seagrass beds, maintaining offshore wind farms, and inspecting aquaculture pens. By participating in this competition, students gain valuable hands-on experience in robotics, engineering, and environmental conservation, while contributing to the preservation of our precious aquatic ecosystems.

Linking Individuals to their Natural Community (LINC)

See website

Hosting Institution

Golden Gate National Parks Conservancy

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

San Francisco (CA)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Mar 10, 2024

Categories

Data Science

Summary

LINC, an internship program in environmental science, offers an exceptional opportunity for high school students residing in the Bay Area to immerse themselves in a six-week program filled with outdoor activities and community engagement. The program, organized by the Park Conservancy, a registered non-profit, brings together students from diverse regions to foster community building, service learning, and exploration of local parklands. Throughout the program, you will actively participate in a range of outdoor activities, including trail work, habitat restoration, and community cleanups. These hands-on experiences will not only deepen your understanding of environmental science but also instill a sense of stewardship for the natural world. In addition to the outdoor activities, the program also offers valuable workshops on resume building, mock interviews, and networking with park partners, providing you with essential skills for future career opportunities. An exciting highlight of the program is an overnight camping trip to a national park, allowing you to connect with nature in a profound and memorable way. Wildlife observation, ropes courses, kayaking, and field games further enrich your experience and provide opportunities for personal growth and adventure. As a participant in the LINC program, you will receive a stipend of up to $2,300 upon successful completion, acknowledging your dedication and commitment. This program not only broadens your understanding of environmental science but also fosters a strong sense of community, instills important life skills, and promotes a lifelong love for nature and conservation.

Kean University’s Group Summer Scholars Research Program

See website

Hosting Institution

Kean University

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Union (NJ)

Cost

$1,700

Application Deadline

Mar 8, 2024

Categories

Biology

Summary

Kean University's Global STEM Scholars Research Program (GSSRP) offers high school students an immersive and hands-on research experience in various STEM fields. Under the guidance of experienced faculty and staff, students engage in cutting-edge research projects in areas such as Scientific Visualization, Cancer Biology, Machine Learning, Developmental Biology, and Modern Drug Discovery. Throughout the program, students develop technical skills, gain research experience, and deepen their understanding of the scientific research process. The GSSRP also provides additional programming, including professional skills workshops and guidance on college and career paths, to support students' personal and academic growth. This program offers a unique opportunity for students to explore their interests in STEM and prepare for future academic and professional endeavors in the field.

Junior Group Research Practicum

See website

Hosting Institution

Scholar Launch

Online/In Person

Online

Location

New Haven (CT)

Cost

$3,500

Application Deadline

Mar 30, 2024

Categories

Biology, Physics, Chemistry, S...

Summary

Younger scholars (7th - 9th graders) who are enthusiastic to learn advanced subject knowledge and skills and get exposure to entry-level research can apply for Scholar Launch’s Junior Research Practicums. You will learn from Ph.D candidates and graduates from top programs and approach an academic topic with an interdisciplinary approach.

John Locke Essay Competition

See website

Hosting Institution

John Locke Institute

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Washington (DC)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

May 31, 2024

Categories

Literature and Languages

Summary

The John Locke Essay Competition is organized by the John Locke Institute, a non-profit educational organization located in Oxford, United Kingdom. Its aim is to encourage young individuals to cultivate the qualities that define exceptional writers, including independent thinking, deep knowledge, clear reasoning, critical analysis, and persuasive style. Esteemed professors from the University of Oxford evaluate the submissions, and they choose a winning essay from each subject group, as well as an overall "best essay" from all seven subjects.

JCamp by the Asian American Journalists Association

See website

Hosting Institution

Asian American Journalists Association

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

San Francisco (CA)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Feb 29, 2024

Categories

Social Science

Summary

JCamp, a highly esteemed six-day program, is a transformative experience that aims to develop students' journalistic skills and foster diversity in the field. With a limited cohort of 25-30 participants, this program provides comprehensive training and guidance in creating multi-platform news packages for JCamp Live. As part of a multicultural group, you will engage in field trips, dynamic discussions, and hands-on workshops, immersing yourself in the principles of journalism ethics, the importance of diversity in newsrooms, leadership fundamentals, cross-cultural communication skills, and the value of networking. Esteemed industry leaders, including Hoda Kotb, Bob Schieffer, and Bill Whitaker, deliver inspiring talks and lectures. Notably, over 75% of JCamp alumni have pursued careers in journalism, with individuals such as Terrell Brown, Taylor Turner, Jessica Carballo, and Ben Bartenstein making significant contributions to the field. JCamp serves as a launchpad for aspiring journalists, empowering them to make a meaningful impact through the power of storytelling and reporting.

Jane Austen Society Essay Contest

See website

Hosting Institution

The Jane Austen Society of North America

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Washington (DC)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Jun 1, 2024

Categories

Literature and Languages

Summary

High school scholars can win up to $1,000 by entering an essay on a specified content related to Jane Austen novels. In addition, each winner will be admitted to the Jane Austen Society of North America (JASNA) for a period of time and receive a collection of Norton Critical Editions of Jane Austen's novels. The winning pieces will also appear on the JASNA website. The theme of the 2022 Essay Contest is based on Jane Austen's first published novel, "Sense & Sensibility." Scholars from all around the world are welcome to enter, but all submissions must be written in English.

ISC3 Innovation Challenge in Sustainable Chemistry and Agriculture

See website

Hosting Institution

Nordrhein-Westfalen

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Nordrhein-Westfalen (Germany)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Apr 30, 2024

Categories

Chemistry

Summary

The ISC3 Innovation Challenge, organized by the International Sustainable Chemistry Collaborative Centre, presents a platform for high school students to showcase their innovative solutions in sustainable chemistry. The challenge revolves around addressing problems faced by the agricultural industry using concepts from chemistry. To participate, students are required to submit their entries in two stages. In the first stage, an online template is filled out, providing a brief description of the innovation, business perspectives, and team details. Shortlisted participants move on to the second stage, where they provide more comprehensive information on the aforementioned aspects. The challenge focuses on various subtopics within the field of agriculture, encouraging students to explore areas such as soil fertility, plant protection, resource efficiency, and more. By combining chemistry and innovation, the ISC3 Innovation Challenge promotes sustainable practices in agriculture and empowers young minds to contribute to a greener future.

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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