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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

Telluride Association Summer Seminar (TASS)

See website

Hosting Institution

TELLURIDE ASSOCIATION

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Maryland (MD)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Jan 3, 2024

Categories

Literature and Languages

Summary

TASS (Telluride Association Summer Program) is a renowned program that offers two distinct tracks: TASS-CBS (Critical Black Studies) and TASS-AOS (Anti-Oppressive Studies). These programs provide a unique educational experience for students interested in exploring various aspects of African diaspora history, literature, politics, and art. TASS is hosted at multiple universities and strives to cultivate critical thinking, leadership skills, and social awareness among its participants. The program aims to empower young minds, equipping them with the tools to actively contribute to society and the wider world. The TASS-CBS track focuses specifically on Critical Black Studies. Through engaging seminars, discussions, and collaborative projects, students delve into the rich history, literature, and culture of people of African descent. They explore topics related to Black experiences, social justice, identity, and resistance. TASS-CBS provides a platform for students to critically examine and challenge existing narratives and structures, fostering a deeper understanding of systemic issues and encouraging active engagement in addressing them. The TASS-AOS track, Anti-Oppressive Studies, takes a broader approach by examining various forms of oppression and social inequalities. Participants explore topics such as race, gender, class, sexuality, and intersectionality, analyzing the ways in which systems of power and privilege operate. Through interdisciplinary discussions, seminars, and experiential learning, students develop a critical lens and gain insights into strategies for dismantling oppressive systems. Both tracks of TASS offer a supportive and intellectually stimulating environment, where participants engage with renowned scholars, educators, and fellow students who share similar interests. The program encourages open dialogue, collaborative learning, and the development of lifelong friendships and networks. TASS seeks to create a transformative experience by challenging participants to critically analyze and question established narratives, fostering a deeper understanding of historical and contemporary issues faced by marginalized communities. By exploring diverse perspectives, TASS cultivates empathy, social consciousness, and a commitment to positive change. If you have a passion for history, literature, politics, and art from people of African descent, TASS is a program worth considering. It provides a unique opportunity to engage in rigorous academic study, develop critical thinking skills, and gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of social issues. By participating in TASS, you join a community of like-minded individuals dedicated to making a positive impact in the world.

Telluride Association Summer Seminar

See website

Hosting Institution

Telluride Association

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Ithaca (NY)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Jan 3, 2024

Categories

Biology

Summary

The Telluride Association Sophomore Seminar (TASS) is a highly selective and prestigious program that offers an exceptional opportunity for high school students interested in humanities disciplines. With its rigorous curriculum focused on social studies and critical thinking, TASS provides an immersive learning experience. Participants attend seminars, engage in thought-provoking debates, enhance their writing skills through essay assignments, and develop their public speaking abilities. TASS is fully funded, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder deserving students from accessing this enriching opportunity. Known for its low acceptance rate, TASS is particularly appealing to students aspiring to attend top-tier universities, including Ivy League institutions. By participating in TASS, students not only deepen their knowledge and understanding of the humanities but also become part of a distinguished community of scholars and intellectuals.

Technovation Girls (Challenge)

See website

Hosting Institution

Technovation

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

MI

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Jan 30, 2024

Categories

Comp Sci

Summary

Technovation Girls is an inspiring global program that empowers girls to use technology to address real-world challenges in their communities. With participation from over 100 countries, more than 39,000 girls have taken part in this initiative. Through Technovation Girls, these young innovators learn to develop mobile applications, leveraging technology to provide innovative solutions to various community problems. By fostering creativity, problem-solving, and entrepreneurship, Technovation Girls encourages girls to become leaders and change-makers in the world of technology.

Summer@Brown Online

See website

Hosting Institution

Brown University

Online/In Person

Online

Location

No location

Cost

$2,816-$10,074

Application Deadline

May 21, 2024

Categories

Data Science, Neuroscience, Bi...

Summary

Students completing grades 9 to 12, ages 14 to 18 can choose from more than 80 courses that offer rigorous, active learning experiences, reflecting the breadth of Brown’s Open Curriculum, led by innovative and engaged instructors. Students can learn in one of three ways, depending on the course they choose: asynchronous, mostly asynchronous or blended online. All online courses will include virtual office hours with your instructor and daily asynchronous engagement.

Summer Science and Engineering Program

See website

Hosting Institution

Smith College

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Northampton (MA)

Cost

$8,082

Application Deadline

Mar 5, 2024

Categories

Engineering

Summary

SSEP's research courses focus on active learning by doing, rather than passive listening and observing. Students have the option to select two-week research courses where they collaborate in small groups with Smith faculty members and undergraduate interns. Through informal lectures both in the lab and in the field, students are encouraged to ask research questions and conduct actual experiments. The majority of the work is carried out through teamwork, but there are also opportunities for individual contributions. By participating in SSEP, students learn about the process of formulating research questions, working with sophisticated scientific instruments, and developing critical thinking and analytical skills.

Summer Research Workshops

See website

Hosting Institution

University of Texas at Dallas

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Dallas (TX)

Cost

$500

Application Deadline

Feb 1, 2024

Categories

Biology, Engineering, Comp Sci...

Summary

This is run like informal college courses that meets at least twice per week – typical goal is to end with a final project or paper related to the research area. In-person is preferred, but online attendance is OK as well.

Summer Internship Program (HS-SIP)

See website

Hosting Institution

The National Institutes of Health

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Bethesda (MD)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Feb 16, 2024

Categories

Neuroscience, Biology, Medicin...

Summary

HS-SIP furnishes understudies with the amazing chance to do full-time biomedical exploration at NIH offices, working close by widely acclaimed experts. Candidates should be youngsters or seniors at the hour of utilization and 17 years of age at the initiation of the program to be thought of. The program is two months in length and offers a payment of $2080 each month to chose understudies

Summer High School Intensive in Next-Generation Engineering (SHINE)

See website

Hosting Institution

USC Viterbi

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

No location

Cost

$6,330

Application Deadline

Feb 15, 2024

Categories

Comp Sci

Summary

The SHINE (Summer High School Intensive in Next-Generation Engineering) program at USC Viterbi offers a unique research opportunity for high school students passionate about engineering. Over the course of seven weeks, participants join a research team and work closely with a mentor (professor) in their chosen engineering tracks. The program allows students to explore their top three engineering interests and pairs them with mentors who are experts in those fields. Students are expected to dedicate approximately 20 hours per week to their research projects, which can involve experimental lab work or computational research focused on cutting-edge technologies. In addition to the research experience, SHINE provides a strong community for students, offering opportunities for social and intellectual networking. Participants also receive college preparation tips and gain valuable experience in science communication. The SHINE program at USC Viterbi is an excellent opportunity for high school students to immerse themselves in engineering research and gain hands-on experience in their areas of interest while being supported by a vibrant and supportive community.

Summer Dance Intensive

See website

Hosting Institution

Julliard

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

New York (NY)

Cost

$4,100

Application Deadline

Dec 15, 2024

Categories

Literature and Languages, Arts

Summary

If you’ve trained intensively in ballet, want to refine your technique, and get more experience in performance, apply to the Juilliard Summer Dance Incentive. This three-week long experience is designed to give dancers an understanding of studying dance at Juilliard, what life might be like being as a dancer in New York City, and the opportunity to pick up new choreography from professional dancers daily. Students train in ballet and modern, participate in yoga classes, and showcase their skills at the end-of-the-year showcase. While you must have prior ballet training to get admitted, practice in modern dance isn’t required (but is an added bonus).

Summer Child Health Research Internship

See website

Hosting Institution

University of Colorado

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Boulder (CO)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Feb 1, 2024

Categories

Medicine

Summary

The Department of Pediatrics offers summer research opportunities for rising high school seniors, college students and first-year medical students. At the completion of research program, the summer research interns will be expected to provide a 2-3 page written summary of their research experience. In addition, all students will provide an oral or poster/PowerPoint summary of their research. Students and mentors will also be encouraged to produce abstracts for submission to local, regional and national meetings. If the students’ research is accepted for presentation at a scientific meeting, the Child Health Research Internship will provide funding for travel and registration for the student to travel to one scientific meeting.

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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