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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
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

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Other programs

Biomedical Camps by Rosetta Institute

See website

Hosting Institution

Rosetta Institute

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

San Jose (CA)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Jun 17, 2024

Categories

Biology

Summary

The Rosetta Institute of Biomedical Sciences is a privately funded institute that focuses on biomedical research, offers scientific editing services, and organizes summer workshops for high school and middle school students. These workshops cover a range of subjects in the field of biomedicine, providing participants with valuable knowledge and hands-on experience. Topics include molecular immunology, medicinal chemistry, cellular and molecular medicine, molecular biology of aging, medical bioinformatics, emerging pathogenic viruses, and biomedical research. During the workshops, students engage in discussion sessions, lectures, guided laboratory research, and critical thinking activities, which contribute to their academic development and foster their interest in biomedicine and related fields. The residential programs take place at affiliated campuses, such as the University of California, Berkeley, University of California, Los Angeles, and University of California, San Diego, offering students a unique opportunity to experience college life in a safe and enriching environment.

Berkeley: Business Academy for Youth: High School Entrepreneurship

See website

Hosting Institution

University of California (Berkeley)

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Berkeley (CA)

Cost

$6,050-$7,050

Application Deadline

Mar 14, 2024

Categories

Business

Summary

"B-BAY, a proven business program for youth, lets you experience the powerful combination of great ideas and great business sense by developing a business idea and creating your team’s business plan–all in just two weeks. Every year, 50 high-school students from around the globe spend two weeks learning at B-BAY, where: - They immerse themselves in the culture, academics, and life at Berkeley - Berkeley Haas professors and corporate guest speakers share their insights and real-world experience - Classroom instruction is supplemented with independent research and computer lab assignments and team projects - Teams work together to create a comprehensive business plan - Teams present their business plans at the end of the session "

Berkeley Pre-College Scholars: Summer Residential Track

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Hosting Institution

University of California (Berkeley)

Online/In Person

Online

Location

Berkeley (CA)

Cost

$15,800

Application Deadline

Mar 10, 2024

Categories

Literature and Languages

Summary

The pre-college program at the University of California, Berkeley offers a diverse range of literature courses, making it an excellent choice for those interested in English Literature. The program covers a variety of topics, including The Horror Genre, Science Fiction, Intro to Popular Fiction, Sally Rooney: Popularity and the Popular, Thinking Through Memory in Poetry and Fiction, Literature and Psychology, Rise of the Young Adult, Epic Poetry, Modes of Writing, and more. This extensive selection allows students to delve into specific areas of literature that align with their interests and passions. Whether you are intrigued by genres like horror and science fiction or want to explore the intersection of literature and psychology, this program provides a rich and immersive experience. Through engaging coursework, discussions, and analysis, participants have the opportunity to deepen their understanding of literature and develop critical thinking and analytical skills. The University of California, Berkeley's pre-college program in literature is an ideal platform for students eager to explore and appreciate various aspects of literary studies.

Berkeley Business Academy for Youth (B-BAY)

See website

Hosting Institution

University of California (Berkeley)

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Berkeley (CA)

Cost

California resident tuition: $6,050 Out-of-state resident tuition: $7,050

Application Deadline

Mar 15, 2024

Categories

Business

Summary

The two-week course offers students a comprehensive introduction to essential skills such as teamwork, communication, presentation, business planning, and research methods. With a small cohort size of only 50 students, participants can enjoy a more personalized and immersive learning experience. The program not only focuses on academic learning but also provides opportunities for students to engage in campus life and social activities. Guest lectures from industry experts add value to the curriculum and expose students to real-world insights. The highlight of the course is the collaborative team project, where students work together to create a business plan and present it at the conclusion of the program. Interactions with UC Berkeley undergraduate students further enhance the learning environment and allow for valuable networking opportunities.

BEGINNINGS: Inquiring into the Origins of Politics, Poetry, and Mathematics

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Hosting Institution

St. John's College Summer Academy

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Santa Fe (NM)

Cost

$1,400

Application Deadline

May 1, 2024

Categories

Social Science, History, Liter...

Summary

What are the origins of human society, language, and knowledge? Through classical works of history, philosophy, religion, mathematics, and poetry, we will explore the idea of the beginning. We encounter a range of classic “beginnings” in an effort to understand the diverse ways that they shape our experience of the world—from beginnings in time, such as political and religious foundings, to timeless beginnings, such as mathematical and philosophical first principles, to the creative and imaginative powers of poetry. Beginnings in a work of mathematics and in a work of religious narrative, for example, may connect in ways that we do not anticipate. Each text studied, including Plato’s Meno, the Book of Genesis, and Euclid’s Elements, will stake out a different, often startling, approach to this fundamentally human concern with the origin of things.

Beaver Works Summer Institute, MIT

See website

Hosting Institution

Lincoln Laboratory

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Lexington (MA)

Cost

Free

Application Deadline

Nov 30, 2024

Categories

Data Science

Summary

The Beaver Works Summer Institute offers project-based courses designed to provide students with in-depth learning experiences. One of these courses, titled "Serious Games and Artificial Intelligence," focuses on the application of modern machine learning methods and game-like modeling to analyze socially relevant technology and policy questions. In this course, students will specifically work on tactical routing for self-driving ambulances as the application for their project. Using Python, students will build an analysis framework to study the technical, moral, and strategic opportunities that new technologies present in this specific context. This course provides a unique opportunity for students to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence, serious games, and real-world applications, enhancing their skills and understanding in these areas.

Baruch College STEM Research Academy

See website

Hosting Institution

Baruch College

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

New York (NY)

Cost

$1,575

Application Deadline

Dec 1, 2024

Categories

Comp Sci, Social Science, Phys...

Summary

"This is designed to provide NYC public high school students with an opportunity to build their science knowledge and skills by engaging in ‘authentic inquiry’ activities. Twenty-five students will be selected based on NY State High School Regents Exams in English and math, GPA, writing sample, and transcript review. The Academy uses a two-semester (spring and summer) program model. Students selected are enrolled in a college-credit research methods course during the spring to strengthen necessary skills, such as formulating a strong research question, designing testable experiments, performing literature searches, and reading scientific literature. The course goal is to introduce students to the expectations of working in a research lab environment. Upon successfully completing the spring course (with a minimum grade of C), ten of the original twenty-five students will be matched with CUNY research faculty and participate in a structured five to six-week summer research experience program."

Barnard College's The Young Women's Leadership Institute

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Hosting Institution

Barnard College

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

New York (NY)

Cost

$9,058

Application Deadline

Jun 29, 2024

Categories

Literature and Languages

Summary

Barnard College, affiliated with Columbia University, presents a specialized program designed for young women with a keen interest in leadership. The program offers a writing and literature track that delves into various aspects of literature, including different forms, themes, filmmaking, and creative writing. The focus is on empowering participants to find their own unique voice and develop their literary skills. Through engaging coursework and hands-on activities, students have the opportunity to explore different literary genres, enhance their understanding of storytelling, and cultivate their creativity. This program at Barnard College aims to inspire young women to become confident leaders and expressive writers, fostering their personal and intellectual growth in a supportive environment.

Bard College at Simon’s Rock Young Writers Workshop

See website

Hosting Institution

Bard College at Simon's Rock

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Great Barrington (MA)

Cost

$3500

Application Deadline

No deadline

Categories

Literature and Languages

Summary

This three-week workshop goes beyond focusing solely on writing style, instead prioritizing the enhancement of language and thinking skills crucial for effective writing. With three 90-minute sessions per day, each dedicated to a different area of research, participants engage in writing activities and participate in reading discussions within small groups of 12 students. This intimate setting ensures individual attention and fosters a supportive environment. Writings are shared among peers and workshop leaders, encouraging collaboration and personal growth. The program emphasizes the writing process and finding one's unique voice, rather than solely focusing on the end product. Building a portfolio is a key component, while informal coursework and a strong emphasis on critical thinking make this program an ideal choice for those seeking a holistic writing experience.

Aspire: Five-Week Music Performance Intensive

See website

Hosting Institution

Berklee College of Music

Online/In Person

In Person

Location

Boston (MA)

Cost

$5,230

Application Deadline

Jan 14, 2024

Categories

Arts

Summary

The Berklee Five-Week Summer Performance Program is a unique opportunity for high school students interested in pursuing music education at the college level. This intensive program allows students to immerse themselves in the Berklee experience and receive training on their chosen primary instrument. Through private instruction, instrument labs, and musicianship training, participants will develop their technical skills and musicianship. The program culminates with a final week of concerts where students showcase their progress. Additionally, students have the chance to earn three transferable college credits if they achieve a grade of B or higher. This program provides a valuable foundation for aspiring musicians and offers a taste of what it's like to study music at Berklee College of Music.

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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