If you’re a high schooler curious about a subject and want to explore it further, consider a research program!
Research programs for high school students offer structured opportunities to go beyond classroom learning and engage in real-world inquiry. By working directly with professional researchers and mentors, you will develop technical skills in experimentation, coding, data analysis, and lab techniques, while also strengthening communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking. Research programs for high school students simulate the rigour of university-level research and help you make informed decisions about future studies and careers.
To guide you with exploring the many available options, we have compiled a list of 30 research programs for high school students across disciplines such as biology, physics, computer science, medicine, engineering, and social sciences. Early exposure to these opportunities builds confidence and demonstrates readiness for higher education challenges.
1. Horizon Academic Research Program (HARP)
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies depending on program type. Financial aid available.
Application Date: Multiple deadlines throughout the year for the Spring, Summer and Fall cohorts.
Program Dates: The spring and fall cohorts run 15 weeks, while the summer cohort runs 10 weeks (June-September).
Eligibility: High school students with good academic standing (>3.67/4.0 GPA) can apply. Most accepted students are 10th/11th graders! A few tracks require prerequisites, see here.
Horizon offers trimester-long research programs for high school students across subject areas such as data science, machine learning, political theory, and more! Horizon is one of the few research programs for high school students that offers you the choice to engage in either quantitative or qualitative research. Once you select a particular subject track, Horizon pairs you with a professor/PhD scholar who acts as a mentor throughout your research journey. As a participant, you will be expected to develop a 20-page research paper that you can send to prestigious journals for publication as a high school student. The program also provides a letter of recommendation for each student and detailed project feedback that you can use to work on future projects.
2. Veritas AI
Location: Virtual
Dates: Multiple 12-15-week cohorts in a year, including Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter
Application Deadline: On a rolling basis: Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November)
Eligibility: Ambitious high school students; AI Fellowship applicants should either have completed the AI Scholars program or exhibit experience with AI concepts or Python
Veritas AI, founded by Harvard alumni, provides research opportunities for high school students interested in artificial intelligence. The AI Scholars program is a 10-session course introducing the basics of AI, machine learning, and data science through real-world projects. For advanced students, the AI Fellowship offers one-on-one mentorship from top university researchers to design personalized projects, with guidance on publishing in high school journals. Both tracks provide hands-on experience and mentorship, helping students deepen their understanding of AI and showcase their work through research and publications.
3. UChicago’s Research in Biological Sciences (RIBS)
Location: The University of Chicago
Cost: $14,490; Financial aid available
Dates: June 14 – July 12
Application Deadline: January 22 (Priority); March 5 (Regular); April 15 (Extended); April 15 – May 15 (Rolling)
Eligibility: 10-11 graders who have completed high school biology and are at least 15 years old
UChicago’s Research in Biological Sciences (RIBS) is a four-week molecular and cell biology program focused on hands-on lab research. Students build core lab skills in the first two weeks, then pursue an independent project in areas like cancer biology or genetics. Alongside lab work, participants attend lectures, write assignments, and discuss research articles to strengthen scientific communication. Weekly faculty seminars introduce active research topics, and the program culminates in a research forum where students present their findings.
4. UChicago’s DSI Summer Lab
Location: The University of Chicago, Data Science Institute
Stipend: $5,600
Dates: June 16 – August 8
Application Deadline: January 12
Eligibility: High school students in the Chicago area; International undergraduate students are eligible to apply, but must be authorized to work in the United States
The University of Chicago’s DSI Summer Lab is an eight-week paid program offering high school and undergraduate students real-world data science research experience. No prior research experience is required. Participants are paired with mentors from fields such as computer science, materials science, social science, climate and energy policy, biomedical research, and public policy. The program emphasizes collaboration, helping students develop research and communication skills while working alongside a cohort of peers and experts and preparing for sustained career paths.
5. UChicago’s ResearcHStart
Location: The University of Chicago
Stipend: Taxable stipend of $3,000
Dates: June – August
Application Deadline: January 20
Eligibility: High school juniors or seniors; Must be a resident of Illinois or Lake County, Indiana; At least 16 by the start of the program
UChicago’s ResearcHStart is a full-time multi-institutional summer program where high school students gain hands-on experience in cancer research labs. Participants work with faculty on areas such as cancer disparities, immunology, and drug development, while also attending career workshops and lectures. The program emphasizes mentorship, lab skills, and critical thinking, helping students understand cancer’s impact across Illinois. It concludes with a symposium where students present their research to peers, faculty, and members of the scientific community.
6. Stanford’s Clinical Neuroscience Immersion Experience (CNI-X)
Location: Virtual (CNV-X) or in-person at Stanford University, CA
Cost: Virtual: $1,595; In-person: $2,895
Dates: Virtual: June 16 – 27; In-person Session 1: July 7 – 18, Session 2: July 21 – August 1
Application Deadline: March 1
Eligibility: High school students aged 14-18 years
Stanford’s Clinical Neuroscience Immersion Experience (CNI-X) is a two-week summer program for high school students exploring neuroscience, psychiatry, and psychology. Led by Stanford faculty, students attend interactive seminars, gain insights into neuroscience research and mental health, and learn about careers in medicine and science. Working in small teams, participants develop creative solutions to neuroscience-related challenges and present their ideas in a capstone project. The program fosters collaboration, critical thinking, and a deeper understanding of brain science.
7. NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM) Internships
Location: Virtual/Multiple in-person locations
Cost/Stipend: Free; Stipend varies depending on internship
Dates: Spring: Mid-January – Early May for 16 weeks | Summer: Late May/Early June – August for 10 weeks | Fall: Late August/Early September – Mid-December for 16 weeks
Application Deadline: Spring: September 12 | Summer: February 27 | Fall: May 22
Eligibility: Full-time high school student with a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale; Must be a U.S. citizen; Must be 16 years old at the time of application
NASA’s OSTEM Internship Program offers students paid opportunities to work on real NASA missions and research projects. Interns collaborate with professionals across fields such as advanced science, technology, and aeronautics, contributing directly to NASA’s mission. Programs may be full-time or part-time based on availability and center needs, allowing flexibility for participants. With sessions offered year-round, students have multiple chances to apply, gain practical experience, and strengthen their resumes while exploring careers in space exploration.
8. UC San Diego’s Research Scholars
Location: Virtual and on-campus cohorts (program-specific)
Cost: Varies by program
Dates: Varies depending on the subject chosen
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort
Eligibility: High school students; Program-specific prerequisites vary
UC San Diego’s Research Scholars Program gives high school students the chance to conduct hands-on research with real-world applications. Participants work closely with mentors in areas like bioengineering, life sciences, marine science, and design thinking, gaining exposure to cutting-edge innovation and valuable technical skills. The program immerses students in the role of a researcher while leveraging UC San Diego’s resources. It also strengthens preparation for college and future careers in medicine, engineering, or innovation-focused fields by providing advanced knowledge and practical research experience.
9. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)
Location: Stanford University, CA
Cost/Stipend: $40 application fee; Minimum $500 stipend
Dates: June 8 – July 30
Application Deadline: February 21
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors who are at least 16 years old and are U.S. citizens or permanent residents
Stanford’s SIMR is an eight-week summer research program for high school juniors and seniors, offering hands-on experience in biomedical research. Participants work with mentors in areas like molecular biology, bioinformatics, bioengineering, and AI, conducting experiments, analyzing data, and contributing to active research projects. The program also includes lectures and workshops to deepen understanding of medical research methods. It culminates in a symposium where students present their work, building scientific communication skills. All participants receive a stipend for their involvement.
10. Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Sciences (JHIBS)
Location: In-person: Johns Hopkins Department of Medicine, Baltimore, MD; Virtual option available
Stipend: $15/hour for in-person interns; No stipend for virtual program
Dates:
- In-person: June – August (8 weeks)
- Virtual: July – August (5 weeks)
Application Deadline: March 1
Eligibility: Current high school juniors or seniors living in Baltimore City for the in-person program; Current high school juniors or seniors for the virtual program
The Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Sciences (JHIBS) is a five to eight-week summer program where high school students explore neuroscience through lab research and clinical exposure. Guided by neuroscientists, clinicians, and faculty, participants conduct research projects, attend seminars, and gain insight into neurological disorders and patient care. The program emphasizes hands-on experience, mentorship, and scientific communication, culminating in a formal research presentation. Students applying for the in-person program also receive a stipend and transportation support, making this internship both accessible and valuable for those interested in brain science.
11. Stony Brook University’s Simons Summer Research Program
Location: Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY
Cost: Free; A stipend is provided
Dates: June 30 – August 8
Application Deadline: February 7
Eligibility: Students in their junior year of high school at the time of applying; Must be at least 16 years of age by the start of the program
The Simons Summer Research Program is an eight-week research experience at Stony Brook, where high school students conduct research under the guidance of a faculty mentor. Participants join lab teams, contribute to ongoing projects, and gain skills in lab techniques and problem-solving. The program also features weekly lectures from leading researchers and group activities that enhance learning. It concludes with students submitting a research abstract and presenting a poster at a final symposium. All participants receive a stipend for their work.
12. University of Illinois Young Scholars Summer STEMM Research Program
Location: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL
Stipend: Students receive a fellowship payment
Dates: June 20 – August 1 (Excluding orientation dates)
Application Deadline: March 30
Eligibility: Rising 10th – 12th graders from Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Iowa, and Wisconsin
The Young Scholars Summer STEMM Research Program at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is a six-week experience for high school students interested in neuroscience, bioengineering, AI, and related fields. Guided by faculty and graduate mentors, participants spend 30–35 hours per week on research projects while also attending weekly seminars on college readiness and scientific communication. The program culminates in a research symposium where students present their findings. Housing, meals, and a fellowship award are provided.
13. Harvard-Smithsonian Science Research Mentoring Program (SRMP)
Location: Virtual or in person at the Center for Astrophysics | Harvard & Smithsonian (CfA) in Cambridge, MA
Stipend: Receive stipends (courtesy of the City of Cambridge)
Dates: September – May
Application Deadline: Not specified
Eligibility: High school students in grades 10-12 attending Cambridge Rindge and Latin School
Harvard’s SRMP engages high school students over a full academic year in original astrophysics research alongside Smithsonian scientists. Participants are paired with mentors and work in small teams on focused projects, gaining experience in research methods, scientific writing, and public speaking through regular meetings. The program provides insight into professional scientific workflows while building academic skills. It concludes with a symposium where students present their findings to researchers and peers, showcasing their growth and contributions to astrophysics.
14. Princeton University’s Laboratory Learning Program (LLP)
Location: Princeton University, Princeton, NJ
Cost: Free
Dates: 5-6 weeks during the summer
Application Deadline: March 15
Eligibility: Students who are sixteen years or older by June 15; Must attend a local high school in the U.S.; Must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents
Princeton’s Laboratory Learning Program is a summer opportunity for local high school students to conduct hands-on research in science or engineering. Participants are placed in labs with faculty mentors, engaging in experiments, data collection, and analysis during weekdays. Each project is shaped by the lab’s specific timeline and goals, providing exposure to professional scientific workflows and lab culture. Participants also attend safety and methods training and write a two-page research summary report for submission at the end. Because this is non-residential, students must arrange their own transportation and logistics.
15. Anson L. Clark Scholars Program
Location: Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX
Cost/ Stipend: $25 application fee; $750 stipend
Dates: June 22 – August 7
Application Deadline: February 16
Eligibility: High school juniors or seniors (grades 11–12); Must be at least 17 years old by start date; Only twelve students are selected
The Anson L. Clark Scholar Program at Texas Tech University is a seven-week summer research experience for high school students. Participants work with faculty mentors on projects across fields such as biomedical science, technology, humanities, and the arts, collaborating with peers from around the world. The program includes weekly seminars, workshops, and field trips that broaden academic perspectives while supporting research development. Guided by experienced faculty, students gain practical skills and mentorship as they contribute to active projects, preparing them for future academic and professional pursuits.
16. Boston University’s RISE Internship / Practicum
Location: Boston University, Boston, MA
Cost:
- Tuition: $5,700
- Service Fees: $485
- Room & Board: $3,276 (14 meals/week) or $3,600 (19 meals/week)
- Application Fee: $60 (non-refundable)
- Limited need-based financial aid is available
Dates: June 29 – August 7
Application Deadline: February 14
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents
Boston University’s RISE is a six-week summer program where high school students conduct laboratory or computational research under faculty guidance. The program offers two tracks: Internship track participants engage in full-time research across disciplines, while Practicum students attend daily lectures and team-based projects in data science or computational neurobiology. Participants also engage in weekly academic workshops and networking opportunities with biotech professionals. It concludes with a Poster Symposium where students present their work, gaining valuable experience in research, collaboration, and scientific communication.
17. Applied Research Innovations in Science and Engineering (ARISE)
Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, New York, NY
Stipend: $1,000
Dates: June 2 – August 18
Application Deadline: February 21
Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors, attending NYC schools; NYC residency required
NYU’s ARISE is a 10-week summer program that combines research training with hands-on lab work. The first four weeks focus on safety, research methods, and college-level writing, while the final six weeks place students in NYU labs for about 120 hours of experience in fields such as computer science, AI, and machine learning. Participants also build skills in public speaking, critical thinking, and networking. The program concludes with a research presentation at NYU and a poster symposium at the American Museum of Natural History.
18. Stanford Program for Inspiring the Next Generation of Women in Physics (SPINWIP)
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free
Dates: July 7 – July 25
Application Deadline: May 1
Eligibility: High school students entering grades 10–12; Priority to those from underrepresented backgrounds in physics
Stanford’s SPINWIP is a free, three-week online summer program designed for high school girls to explore physics. Participants learn Python and apply it to topics like quantum computing and astrophysics through interactive lectures and team-based projects. The program also provides mentorship from Stanford faculty and undergraduates, along with workshops on college preparation and STEM career pathways. No prior experience in programming or physics is required, making the program accessible while fostering skills, confidence, and interest in advanced scientific fields.
19. Jackson Laboratory Summer Student Program
Location: The Jackson Laboratory in Bar Harbor, Maine and The Jackson Laboratory for Genomic Medicine in Farmington, Connecticut
Stipend: $7,000 along with room, board and travel support
Dates: May 30 – August 7
Application Deadline: January 26
Eligibility: Must be a U.S. citizen; High school students who have completed grade 12 or enrolled as a full-time undergraduate student; Must be at least 18 years old
The Jackson Laboratory’s Summer Student Program is a research-focused opportunity for high school and undergraduate students to work on projects in areas like genomics, cancer biology, and developmental genetics. Guided by leading scientists, participants gain hands-on experience in state-of-the-art labs in Maine or Connecticut while engaging in professional development sessions covering topics like genetic testing, data visualization, science communication and peer review. The program concludes with a symposium where participants present their research, offering valuable preparation for future careers in biomedical science.
20. The Wistar Institute High School Program in Biomedical Research
Location: Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA
Stipend: $1,500 (paid on successful completion)
Dates: July 7 – July 31
Application Deadline: March 31
Eligibility: High school students who are at least 16 years of age and have completed at least one high school science course; Priority is given to students enrolled in the School District of Philadelphia
The Wistar High School Fellowship in Biomedical Research is a four-week summer program offering high school students hands-on experience in biomedical science. Participants train in lab techniques, contribute to ongoing projects, and learn to analyze scientific literature in Wistar’s advanced Training Lab. The program also highlights career opportunities in biomedical research and concludes with a student presentation of findings. Open to 15 students, it prioritizes those from underrepresented or underserved backgrounds. No prior research experience is required, making it an accessible path to skill-building and scientific exploration.
21. University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center High School Summer Program
Location: University of Texas, MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX
Stipend: $6,800 for the 10-week program; $6,120 for nine weeks
Dates: June 2 – August 8
Application Deadline: January 15
Eligibility: Current Texas high school seniors who are 18 years or older by the program start date; Must be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or work-eligible visa holders; Click here for more details
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center offers a 10-week summer program for 12 high school students to explore biomedical research and Allied Health careers. Participants work full-time in research labs under faculty mentorship, gaining hands-on experience and insight into the scientific process. The program includes seminars on varied research topics and opportunities for poster presentations and competitions. It concludes with a formal research presentation, providing students with practical skills and a clearer understanding of future career paths in science and health.
22. Summer Child Health Research Internship
Location: Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO
Stipend: $4,400
Dates: June 2 – August 1
Application Deadline: February 1
Eligibility: High school seniors over the age of 18; Must be Colorado residents
The University of Colorado School of Medicine’s Department of Pediatrics offers a summer research program for high school seniors over 18. Participants work in labs with faculty at Children’s Hospital Colorado and the Anschutz Medical Campus, focusing on child health research. The program features a weekly lecture series and concludes with written summaries and oral or poster presentations. Outstanding projects may be submitted to scientific conferences with travel and registration support. This program provides hands-on research experience and valuable exposure to careers in child health and medicine.
23. Medicine Institute: Wake Forest Summer Immersion Program
Location: Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC
Cost: $3,400
Dates: July 6 – 11 or July 20 – 25
Application Deadline: Rolling basis starting in November
Eligibility: Current 9th – 12th grade students
The Wake Forest Summer Immersion Medicine Institute is a program for high school students to explore healthcare through hands-on training and medical research. Participants work in simulation labs and engage in clinical research projects in areas such as internal medicine, cardiology, and surgery. Students learn practical skills like taking blood pressure, suturing, and performing ultrasounds while exploring new medical technologies. The program also provides access to the Wake Forest School of Medicine, offering exposure to medical students, ongoing research, and real-world clinical trials.
24. Arthritis Foundation Summer Science Internship (rheumatology USA)
Location: University of California, San Francisco (UCSF)
Stipend: $2,500 (paid in two installments: first half at start; second half after submitting final paper)
Dates: June 2 – August 29
Application Deadline: March 10
Eligibility: High school students who are at least 17 years of age by June 2; Must be a U.S. citizen
The Arthritis Foundation’s Summer Science Internship is an eight-week program for high school students to conduct research in the fields of rheumatology and immunology at UCSF. Participants gain hands-on experience in areas such as basic laboratory research, clinical epidemiology, or bioinformatics, working in leading research and clinical labs. The program provides the opportunity to contribute to studies that advance treatments for arthritis and related autoimmune diseases. Through this experience, students develop practical research skills and valuable insights into both laboratory-based and patient-focused medical research. The program concludes with a poster session and a 2-page paper where the participants showcase their accomplishments over the 8-weeks.
25. Pathways Research Explorers Program
Location: Fred Hutch Cancer Center, Seattle, WA
Stipend: $500
Dates:
- Session 1: July 28 – August 8
- Session 2: August 11 – 22
Application Deadline: March 14
Eligibility: Rising 10th and 11th grade students’ Must reside in Seattle or surrounding areas
The Pathways Research Explorers Program at Fred Hutch is a two-week summer experience for 32 rising 10th and 11th-graders interested in biomedical research (16 for each session). Students gain hands-on lab experience, tour research facilities, and interact with scientists at various career stages. The program focuses on cancer research, public health, and epidemiology, offering exposure to modern research methods and laboratory practices. Designed to inspire future biomedical researchers, it requires applicants to have completed a high school biology course before participating.
26. Summer Program in Automation, Robotics, and Coding (SPARC) | NYU Tandon School of Engineering
Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, NY
Cost: $3,300
Dates:
Session 1: June 16 – 27
Session 2: July 7 – 18
Session 3: July 28 – August 8
Application Deadline: May 15
Eligibility: Current 9th to graduating 12th graders aged 15 years or older; Prerequisites include AP Math, Algebra 2, Trigonometry; Preference for completion of PreCalc and enrollment in AP Stats/Calculus
SPARC at NYU Tandon is a two-week, full-day program where students explore automation, robotics, and coding. Using a hands-on robotics kit, participants learn to work with microcontrollers, sensors, and actuators while developing programming skills in concepts like loops and binary code. The program also introduces key electrical and mechanical engineering principles applied to automation. It concludes with robot competitions that allow students to test, refine, and showcase their creations in collaborative challenges, building both technical knowledge and problem-solving skills.
27. George Mason University’s Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program (ASSIP)
Location: George Mason University, Fairfax, Virginia (Virtual internships available)
Cost: $25 application fee; waivers are available based on financial need
Dates: June 18 – August 8
Application Deadline: February 2
Eligibility: High school and undergraduate students who are 15 years or older by June 18
The Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program (ASSIP) at George Mason University gives high school students the chance to conduct innovative research under one-on-one faculty mentorship. Participants work 30 hours per week, gaining hands-on experience with advanced technologies in fields such as robotics, machine learning, cybersecurity, and nanoscience. The program emphasizes skills in scientific writing, communication, and problem-solving, while also offering opportunities to contribute to publications or present at conferences. Past projects have explored diverse topics, including renewable energy, infectious diseases, robotics, and exoplanet studies, providing valuable exposure to cutting-edge STEM research. The program ends with a research symposium where you can share your findings with peers and other researchers.
28. CURE Research Internship Program by UCSF
Location: University of California, San Francisco, CA
Stipend: This is a paid internship
Dates: June 16 – August 8 (excluding orientation dates)
Application Deadline: February 16
Eligibility: Current 11th grader in high school; Must be at least 16 years old by the start of the program; Must have a minimum GPA of 2.5; Must have completed Bioloy or Chemistry with atleast a grade of B
The CURE Research Internship at UCSF is a two-month program offering high school students hands-on experience in basic, clinical, and behavioral sciences. Working with faculty and graduate mentors, participants develop skills in lab techniques, data analysis, and experimental design while exploring careers in health and biomedical fields. The program also provides college and career guidance, training in methods like PCR, microscopy, and statistical analysis, and opportunities to strengthen scientific communication. It concludes with a symposium where students present their research findings.
29. The Stanford Center for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine and Imaging (AIMI) — Summer Research Internship
Location: Virtual
Cost: Application Fee: $40; Program Participation Fee: US$850 if accepted; Fee waivers/scholarships are available to offset cost for eligible students
Dates: June 16 –27
Application Deadline: February 28
Eligibility: High school students entering grades 9-12 who reside in the U.S. and are at least 14 years old by the start of the program
The Stanford Center for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine and Imaging runs a two-week virtual summer program designed for high school students interested in technology, engineering, and AI. The curriculum introduces how artificial intelligence is applied in healthcare, combining foundational instruction with project-based learning. Participants attend lectures led by Stanford researchers, work in teams on projects that apply computational and engineering methods to real-world medical imaging or healthcare problems, and join career sessions featuring professionals from academia, industry, and government. With only about 25 students selected each year, the program is highly selective. Interns who complete the program earn a Certificate of Completion from Stanford AIMI.
30. Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program
Location: Students are placed within a 30-45 minute commute from their homes; Locations include all 50 U.S. states, Puerto Rico, Canada, Mexico, and the Pacific Islands
Stipend: $3,000 paid over the 8-week internship in three installments of $1,000 each
Dates: 8 weeks in the summer with flexible start and end dates (32 hours per week)
Application Deadline: January 25
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors; Must be atleast 16 years old by internship start date
The Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program is an eight-week paid internship for high school students interested in fisheries science. Participants work full-time with a professional mentor in their local community, gaining hands-on experience with aquatic ecosystems in marine or freshwater environments. Activities may include monitoring fish populations, restoring habitats, water quality testing, specimen analysis, data processing, or educational outreach. Placements vary from outdoor fieldwork to laboratory settings and boat-based research, giving students broad exposure to the field of fisheries biology.
Image source – AFS Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program