6 Research and Summer Programs in New Jersey For High School Students

Hosting Institution
Polygence
Online/In Person
Online
Cost
Starting at $2895
Application Deadline
Feb 23, 2026
Categories
Biology, Business, Chemistry, Computer Sci, Econ, Engineering, Humanities, Medicine, Neuro, Psychology
Hosting Institution
Polygence
Online/In Person
Online
Cost
Starting at $495
Application Deadline
Varies by program
Categories
Biology, Computer Science, Economics, Engineering, Humanities, Mathematics, Other
Other programs
Liberty Science Center’s Partners in Science
See websiteSummary
Partners in Science is an intensive, eight-week summer program for rising high school juniors and seniors that pairs students with mentors in science, health, and technical fields. It exposes them to current questions driving scientific discovery and challenges them to participate in ongoing research and independent projects.
Odyssey of the Mind
See websiteSummary
The challenge invites high school students to tap into their creativity and problem-solving skills by identifying issues and crafting innovative solutions. Participating schools or community groups can purchase membership, which grants them eligibility for the competition. The competition unfolds at regional, state, and national levels, allowing students to showcase their ideas and compete with peers. The challenge is open to students in grades 9th to 12th, providing them with an opportunity to think outside the box, propose novel solutions, and make a positive impact in their communities.
Destination ImagiNation
See websiteSummary
Destination ImagiNation is an international competition that fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills in students from kindergarten through college. Through teamwork, creativity, and research, participants work in groups to develop innovative solutions to Team Challenges. This unique program not only encourages imagination and creativity but also equips students with valuable life skills. By engaging in collaborative problem-solving, students gain the ability to think critically, communicate effectively, and work as a team, preparing them for future success.
Rutgers University’s Waksman Institute Summer Experience (WISE)
See websiteSummary
Rutgers University's WISE program offers a unique opportunity for high school students interested in biology research. Over the course of two weeks, students engage in an authentic research project focused on DNA sequence analyses of genes from the duckweed Landoltia punctata. Through seminars and laboratory sessions, participants explore the molecular biology and bioinformatics aspects of this research, comparing the duckweed genes to those of other species. The program emphasizes active participation, independent work, and the submission of DNA sequence analyses for publication on GenBank, a renowned international repository of DNA sequences. By participating in the WISE program, students gain valuable hands-on experience, develop research skills, and contribute to the scientific community.
The Governor’s School of New Jersey in Engineering & Technology
See websiteSummary
The Governor's School of New Jersey in Engineering & Technology provides an exceptional opportunity for high-achieving high school students to immerse themselves in the field of engineering and technology. This highly competitive summer program, hosted by Rutgers University School of Engineering, offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes academic courses, hands-on research projects, and engaging activities with industry professionals and peers. Through collaborative research projects, participants will have the chance to explore innovative ideas and present their findings at a research symposium, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Additionally, the program facilitates site visits to local corporations, providing valuable insights into potential career paths and industry trends. By participating in this program, students will gain a deeper understanding of engineering and technology, develop strong academic foundations, and establish meaningful connections within the field.
Rutgers Young Scholars Program in Discrete Mathematics
See websiteSummary
Rutgers University's WISE program offers a unique opportunity for high school students interested in mathematics.In the Discrete Mathematics program, students gain valuable hands-on experience, develop research skills, and contribute to the scientific community.
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