If you’re a high school student in New York City looking to understand research methodologies and gain some experience in the field, a research internship in the city is an accessible way to get started. Research internships allow you to work directly with experienced professionals and contribute to ongoing projects. In New York City, multiple organizations and hospitals offer research-focused internships in environmental science, journalism, economics, and public health. The city also provides access to advanced labs and experienced mentors across disciplines.
Research internships can also help you develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills in labs, universities, or industry settings while providing early exposure to practical scientific inquiry and academic exploration. Internships can also strengthen your college applications, give you clarity about your career interests and build networks that can support your future academic and professional paths.
Here are 15 NYC-based research internships where you can get started. You can also check out our blog on summer research programs for high school students in NYC.
1. Zuckerman Institute’s Brain Research Apprenticeships in New York at Columbia (BRAINYAC)
Subject Area: Neuroscience
Location: Columbia University, NYC
Dates: 5 weeks, June–August
Stipend: Paid (exact amount not listed)
Application Deadline: Reopens in October
Eligibility: 10th–11th grade NYC students nominated by partner schools/programs (with a focus on students from Upper Manhattan and the South Bronx)
The BRAINYAC program places high school students from communities historically underrepresented in science in neuroscience labs at Columbia University for a mentored summer research experience. If selected, you’ll be paired with a neuroscientist and work on a lab-based project, ranging from studying brain circuitry to examining how neurons process sensory input.
You’ll develop lab techniques, engage with scientific literature, and gain exposure to the daily rhythm of academic research. The program is open only to students nominated by specific community partners like S-PREP, Lang Youth, Double Discovery Center, Columbia Secondary School, and BioBus.
2. Urban Barcode Research Program – DNA Learning Center
Subject Areas: Biodiversity, DNA barcoding, conservation biology
Location: DNA Learning Center @ NYC College of Technology, Brooklyn
Dates: August 25–August 29 (lab training) + school-year sessions; symposium in late May/early June
Stipend: $500
Application Deadline: May 27
Eligibility: NYC high school students in grades 9–12
The Urban Barcode Research Program introduces you to DNA barcoding as a tool to investigate biodiversity in New York City. You’ll begin with a week of lab training in techniques like DNA isolation and PCR amplification, then conduct a yearlong mentored research project.
Past topics have included tracking invasive species and studying the biodiversity of city parks. You’ll also write a research proposal, collect samples, analyze genetic data, and present your findings at a final symposium. This can serve as an entry point into molecular biology and conservation research
3. Ladder Internships
Subject Areas: Media and journalism, technology, machine learning and AI, finance
Location: Virtual. You can work from anywhere in the world
Dates: 8-week programs with multiple cohorts throughout the year
Cost: Starting at $1,990. Financial assistance is available
Application deadline: Multiple deadlines throughout the year
Eligibility: Open to all high school students who can work for 10-20 hours/week for 8-12 weeks.
These internships are also open to undergraduates and gap year students
Ladder Internship is a selective program for high school students to work with nonprofits and startups across the world, including legal-tech start-ups. These organizations work in fields such as media and journalism, technology, machine learning and AI, finance, environmental science and sustainability, business and marketing, healthcare and medicine, and more. You can explore all the options on their application form.
As a Ladder intern, you will engage in a coaching + work-based model. You will work on a project that is of importance to the organization and present your work at the end of your internship. You will work closely with your manager from the startup, and a Ladder Coach, who guides you through the internship and helps you navigate the startup environment. The program includes 1-on-1 and group training sessions for soft skills and professional development.
4. Biorocket Research Internship – Genspace
Subject Areas: DNA sequencing, genetic modification, and basic bioinformatics
Location: Genspace, Brooklyn, NY
Dates: Spring (Feb 27–May 22); Summer (June 30–Aug 15)
Stipend: $2,000
Application Deadline: January (opens in fall)
Eligibility: NYC public/charter school students (16+) within 45 minutes of Genspace
Biorocket is a 6-month research internship where you’ll explore genetic engineering and biotechnology through hands-on lab work. You’ll join a cohort of 12 students to learn DNA sequencing, genetic modification, and basic bioinformatics, guided by scientists at Genspace.
Expect to design and run your experiments, visit local biotech labs, and build core lab and science communication skills. The program also includes mentorship and ethical discussions about modern biotech, making it an option you can explore if you’re considering a future in research or biomedical science.
5. Environmentor – RISE Mentorship Program
Subject Areas: Conservation, Environmental Science
Location: Far Rockaway, NY
Dates: June through mid-August
Stipend: Up to $1,200
Application Deadline: Typically May
Eligibility: 9th–11th graders who live or study near the Rockaway Peninsula
Environmentor pairs you with a local scientist for a summer of field-based environmental research. You’ll design and carry out an independent project focused on Jamaica Bay and the Rockaway shoreline—past projects have looked at marine mammal strandings, air quality, and marsh restoration.
Alongside research, the program offers CPR and water safety training, as well as kayaking, surfing, and biking trips. You’ll also build data collection, environmental monitoring, and science presentation skills while contributing to local conservation efforts.
6. RockEDU’s LAB Jumpstart Program
Subject Areas:Neuroscience, Genetics, STEM
Location: Rockefeller University, New York, NY
Dates: Feb 27-June 12; June 23-August 7
Stipend: $500 (Spring) + $3,500 (Summer)
Application Deadline: January 3
Eligibility: NYC high school juniors and seniors, 16+
RockEDU’s LAB Jumpstart program provides the opportunity to participate in biomedical research. You’ll attend research workshops, connect with mentors from Rockefeller University, and work on an SSRP research team in the summer.
During the spring, you’ll build foundational research skills and explore scientific literature. In the summer, you’ll apply those skills to real-world research projects in neuroscience, genetics, and more, while receiving hands-on training in lab techniques. This program helps you gain practical research experience in a scientific environment.
7. Project TRUE – Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Bronx Zoo
Subject Areas: Conservation, Urban Ecology, Environmental Science
Location: WCS Bronx Zoo, Bronx, NY
Dates: Summer: Late June–August | Fall: Sept–Dec
Stipend: $750 (Summer) + MetroCard or $16/hr via SYEP (if eligible) | $350 (Fall)
Application Deadline: Early March
Eligibility: High school sophomores/juniors in the Bronx
Project TRUE is a research-based internship where you’ll work alongside undergraduate students and scientists to explore urban ecology in New York City. You will conduct field research on topics like species distribution, invasive species management, and water quality.
The program includes training in research methods, data collection, and science communication. You’ll also have the opportunity to present your findings and build a network with professionals in ecology and conservation. This is a hands-on program if you’re interested in applying scientific methods to real-world environmental issues.
4. NASA Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM) Internships
Subject Areas: Aerospace, STEM
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: Most opportunities are paid, although they depend on the program
Application Deadline: Varies by internship (Spring: August, Summer: October, Fall: January)
Program Dates: Fall (16 weeks, August-December), Spring (16 weeks, January-May), Summer (10 weeks, May-August)
Eligibility: Full-time high school students with a minimum GPA of 3.0
NASA’s OSTEM internships allow high school students to contribute to real-world space projects at NASA facilities or virtually. You will work alongside professionals in space science, engineering, aeronautics, microbiology, and more. You will participate in designing experiments, analyzing space mission data, or developing new technologies.
The program offers hands-on experience, mentorship, and personal and professional development. This internship can be helpful for you if you’re passionate about space exploration and cutting-edge technology.
8. Wave Hill Forest Project
Subject Areas: Conservation, Natural Sciences, Ecology
Location: Wave Hill, Bronx, NY
Dates: Typically in the summer
Stipend: $2,275 (via SYEP)
Application Deadline: March 1
Eligibility: NYC high school students 16+ with work authorization
The Wave Hill Forest Project offers a hands-on experience in ecological restoration. You’ll work on woodland restoration projects, including removing invasive species and preventing erosion. Under the guidance of experienced crew leaders, you’ll gain skills in data collection, environmental monitoring, and field research.
The program also includes coursework on restoring New York’s natural areas and guest lectures on conservation careers. If you’re interested in conservation science and environmental restoration, this is a research internship you can explore.
9. Thurgood Marshall Summer Law Internship | NYC Bar
Subject Areas: Law, Humanities
Location: New York City
Dates: Typically between May and August
Stipend: Paid ($15 – $21 per hour)
Application Deadline: Typically the last week of January
Eligibility: NYC public high school students
The Thurgood Marshall Summer Law Internship connects high school students with legal employers in New York City, including law firms, corporations, and government agencies. As an intern, you’ll gain experience in legal research and documentation. Your responsibilities may include assisting paralegals, organizing case files, and maintaining records, giving you a first-hand look at how legal research is conducted in practical settings.
In addition to your duties, the program offers networking opportunities, professional development programs, and panel discussions to help prepare you for a career in law. This internship can serve as a foundation if you’re aiming to build skills in legal research and law practice.
10. Judicial Intern Opportunity Program (JIOP) by American Bar Association (ABA)
Subject Areas: Law, Political Science
Location: Various cities across the U.S., including New York
Dates: 6 weeks, typically during the summer
Stipend: $2,000
Application Deadline: April (exact date varies)
Eligibility: All high school students
The Judicial Intern Opportunity Program (JIOP), offered by the American Bar Association, provides high school students the chance to intern with federal or state judges across the U.S. This program is designed to increase diversity and inclusivity in the legal profession. As an intern, you’ll gain experience in a court environment, assist with legal research, and observe court proceedings.
You’ll also have the opportunity to work directly with judges and their chambers, learning the ins and outs of the judicial system. Ideal for those pursuing a legal career, especially those interested in the judicial branch, this program helps build critical skills in legal research, writing, and understanding court operations.
11. CUNY’s STEM Research Academy
Subject Areas: Engineering, Computer Science, Data Analysis
Location: City College campus, New York, NY
Cost/Stipend: No cost; eligible students may receive a $1,575 stipend upon completion
Application Deadline: January (exact date varies)
Dates: Spring Course: February 6–May 23 | Summer Session: July 1–August 2
Eligibility: NYC Public High School 10th or 11th-graders
The CUNY STEM Research Academy (STEM RA) is a two-semester program that helps high school students build research and scientific skills. During the spring, you’ll take a hands-on science course, learning the fundamentals of scientific research. In the summer, you’ll have the opportunity to work on a research project in a university lab under the mentorship of a CUNY or CCNY faculty member. Research topics include engineering, computer science, and data analysis.
The program culminates with a research presentation, allowing you to showcase your work. Eligible students may also receive a stipend upon completion.
13. The Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Science Program (JHIBS): Project Pipeline Baltimore
Subject Areas: Neuroscience, STEM
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: Virtual program: $500, In-person program: Hourly rate
Application Deadline: March 1 (annually)
Program Dates: 8 weeks, June – August (in-person); 5 weeks, July – August (virtual)
Eligibility: Virtual program: Juniors and seniors nationwide. In-person program: Juniors and seniors from Baltimore City and surrounding areas, with a passion for science and medicine
The Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Science (JHIBS) program offers high school students the chance to gain experience in neuroscience research. The in-person program at the Johns Hopkins Department of Neurology allows you to engage in research, collaborate with leading neuroscientists, and participate in seminars and professional development activities.
Virtual interns will also work closely with researchers, gaining exposure to the field from home. In addition, you will present your findings at the end of the program. You will receive a stipend, with in-person interns earning an hourly rate and virtual interns receiving $500.
12. EnergyMag Research Internship
Subject Areas: Conservation, Renewable Energy
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: Unpaid
Application Deadline: Open year-round
Program Dates: Flexible; internships can be extended by 1-2 weeks based on school schedule conflicts
Eligibility: Sophomores, juniors, and seniors with at least one honors science or English class, and a minimum GPA of 3.25
EnergyMag offers flexible research internships for high school students interested in renewable energy. With half-time and quarter-time options, you can tailor the internship to your schedule. The half-time internship is perfect for an immersive summer experience (2-8 weeks, 20 hours/week), while the quarter-time internship runs throughout the year, requiring about 8 hours/week for up to 9 months.
As an intern, you’ll work on research in renewable energy and energy storage, analyze market trends, and contribute to EnergyMag publications. The internship often culminates in a research project or several smaller assignments. This opportunity can help you gain practical experience in a growing field while exploring the latest advancements in energy technologies.
15. Internships at the American Psychological Association (APA)
Subject Areas: Psychology, Brain Science
Location: Remote
Cost/Stipend: Amount not specified
Application Deadline: Rolling (check the application portal for current openings)
Program Dates: Year-round
Eligibility: High school students (specific requirements vary by internship)
The APA internships offer high school students a range of roles in research, policy, and more within the field of psychology. You may assist with research, writing, web projects, or support staff with administrative tasks.
Whether in-person at the Washington, D.C. office or remotely, you’ll gain practical experience, work closely with professionals, and engage in various learning activities. If you’re interested in psychology, this internship offers valuable insight into professional environments in the field.
Image source – Johns Hopkins University