If you’re a high school student in Pennsylvania looking to engage in a subject beyond the classroom, summer research programs can offer a meaningful head start. These in-person opportunities place you in labs, hospitals, and academic settings across the state, where you’ll work with professional researchers on projects in fields like biology, chemistry, physics, engineering, and public health.
Pennsylvania is home to a ton of universities and organizations that offer rigorous research opportunities for high school students each year. If you’re a student looking for an accessible, local, and financial viable option for your research, consider a program from the list below!
You’ll gain hands-on experience with experimental design, lab techniques, data analysis, and academic writing — building a foundation of technical skills that can support college applications and future STEM careers.
In this blog, we’ve compiled 15 research opportunities for high school students in Pennsylvania that offer rigorous, hands-on experience and early exposure to the world of scientific inquiry.
1. Horizon Academic Research Program (HARP)
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.
Dates: The spring and fall cohorts run 15 weeks, while the summer cohort runs 10 weeks (June-September).
Application Deadline: Multiple deadlines throughout the year for the Spring, Summer, and Fall cohorts.
Cost: $5,950 (financial aid is available)
Location: Virtual
Eligibility: High school students with good academic standing (>3.67/4.0 GPA) can apply. Most accepted students are 10th/11th graders! Only a couple of tracks require formal prerequisites, more details of which can be found here.
2. The Wistar Institute High School Summer Program in Biomedical Research
In this program, you will spend four intensive weeks learning state-of-the-art lab techniques such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, and microscopy in Wistar’s advanced training laboratories. The curriculum also sharpens your data interpretation skills and helps you learn how to critically read and analyze scientific literature. As part of the program, you will actively contribute to ongoing research projects, learning to troubleshoot experimental designs and refine methodologies under the guidance of professional scientists.
Additionally, you’ll present your own research findings to peers and mentors, enhancing your scientific communication skills. The program also provides structured exploration of careers in biomedical sciences, offering direct interaction with Wistar scientists and faculty.
Dates: July 7 – July 31
Application Deadline: April 7
Cost: Free; students receive a $1,500 stipend and SEPTA travel passes
Location: The Wistar Institute, Philadelphia, PA
Eligibility: High school students aged 16+ by start date; must have completed at least one high school science course. Priority is given to students from Philadelphia high schools.
3. Veritas AI – AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase
Veritas AI focuses on providing high school students who are passionate about the field of AI with a suitable environment in which to explore their interests. The programs include collaborative learning, project development, and 1-on-1 mentorship. Students are expected to have a basic understanding of Python or are recommended to complete the AI Scholars program before pursuing the fellowship.
The AI Fellowship program will allow students to pursue independent AI research projects. Students work on their research projects over 15 weeks and can opt to combine AI with any other field of interest. You can find examples of previous projects here.
Dates: Various according to the cohort. Multiple 15-week cohorts throughout the year, including Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Application Deadline: Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September),w and Winter (November).
Cost: $2,290 for the 10-week AI Scholars program | $5,400 for the 15-week AI Fellowship with Publication & Showcase | $6,900 for both. Need-based financial aid is available for AI Scholars. You can apply here.
Location: Virtual
Eligibility: Ambitious high school students located anywhere in the world. AI Fellowship applicants should either have completed the AI Scholars program or exhibit experience with AI concepts or Python.
4. Fox Chase Cancer Center Immersion Science Program
The Immersion Science Program (ISP) lets you step directly into biomedical research by working in Fox Chase’s designated ISP Teaching Laboratory. The focus is on investigating how dietary supplements affect key cancer pathways, giving you experience in experimental design, data collection, and analysis using cancer biology methodologies.
You will also collaborate with peers and faculty to contribute to community-focused research initiatives, including projects such as HPV research. You can cultivate strong laboratory skills in cell biology and molecular biology, along with data presentation and scientific writing, all under the rigorous mentorship of Fox Chase scientists.
Dates: Early January – mid-March (11 consecutive weeks, Saturdays only; final week is mandatory student presentation)
Application Deadline: Applications open mid-to-late October; due by early November
Cost: Free
Location: Fox Chase Cancer Center, Philadelphia, PA
Eligibility: High school students from the Philadelphia and Tri-State area with a strong interest in biomedical research
5. University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences Research Training Program (RTP)
This program allows you to step directly into cutting-edge biomedical research at the University of Pittsburgh. As a participant, you’ll develop familiarity with laboratory-based or clinical research across disciplines such as medicine, pharmacy, public health, and nursing. You’ll gain experience in fundamental lab techniques, experimental design, and the scientific process.
Additionally, the program focuses on developing skills in presenting and sharing biomedical data, preparing you for academic research or healthcare careers. The RTP offers a flexible structure tailored to your educational goals under the supervision of a dedicated faculty mentor.
Dates: 10–12 weeks in the summer, starting in June
Application Deadline: Varies; check program website
Cost: Free
Location: University of Pittsburgh Schools of the Health Sciences, Pittsburgh, PA
Eligibility: High school students aged 16+ and undergraduate students; must have strong interest in science, medicine, or health research
6. UPMC Hillman Cancer Center Academy – Hillman Academy
In this program, you will spend 7 to 8 weeks doing research at the University of Pittsburgh and UPMC Hillman Cancer Center. Under mentorship from faculty across eight program sites, including cancer biology, immunology, computational biology, biomedical informatics, and surgical oncology.
You will conduct full-time lab research (wet or dry lab) and participate in a rigorous curriculum of weekly keynote lectures and research presentations. The program also focuses on preparing you for competitive science fair participation and research careers, especially if you come from an underrepresented background. Core skills include molecular biology techniques, data analysis, computational modeling (for dry labs), and science communication through a final symposium presentation.
Dates: June 16 – August 1
Application Deadline: February 28
Cost: Free; eligible students from underrepresented backgrounds may receive a stipend of $2,400
Location: University of Pittsburgh & UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, Pittsburgh, PA
Eligibility: High school students aged 15+ (16+ for wet labs); preference given to rising juniors and seniors; applicants must be in good academic standing
7. Biomedical Research Academy – University of Pennsylvania
In this academy, you’ll explore experimental techniques including PCR, gel electrophoresis, restriction analysis, bacterial transformation, and ELISA to investigate topics like gene expression and mock disease outbreaks. The program also introduces computational biology: you will use Bash and Python to analyze genomic sequences and perform sequence alignments.
Daily lectures and faculty research talks cover advanced topics, including CRISPR/Cas9, genome sequencing, and bioethics. You’ll also sharpen your analytical and scientific writing skills through guided journal clubs, where you learn to critique primary research papers under the mentorship of Penn researchers.
Dates: July 5 – July 26
Application Deadline: Typically late winter or early spring
Cost: $9,949 (includes tuition, housing, meals, gym access, academic facilities, and extracurriculars); financial aid available for eligible Philadelphia public/charter students. Read about scholarships here.
Location: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
Eligibility: Current 9th–11th grade students; must have completed at least one year of high school biology; high school chemistry is strongly recommended
8. Neuroscience Research Academy – University of Pennsylvania
This program offers a structured introduction to neuroscience research, progressing from neural cell biology to cognition, emotion, and morality. You’ll attend daily lectures with Penn neuroscience faculty, join a journal club to critically analyze peer-reviewed literature, and take part in a neuroethics club that challenges you to consider the social impact of emerging science.
Outside of class, museum visits and neuroscience-themed films reinforce your academic learning. This is a well-rounded experience for students seeking to explore the applications of research in neurobiology and medicine.
Dates: July 5 – July 26
Application Deadline: Typically open in January, with admissions rolling until full
Cost: $9,949 (includes tuition, housing, meals, gym access, academic facilities, and extracurriculars); financial aid available for eligible Philadelphia public/charter students. Read about scholarships here.
Location: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
Eligibility: Current 9th–11th grade students; must have completed one year of high school biology and one year of chemistry
9. Chemistry Research Academy – University of Pennsylvania
Designed for students with prior exposure to chemistry, this program builds on first-year high school chemistry to develop research-grade lab and analytical skills. You’ll spend ~50% of your time conducting open-ended lab experiments using techniques like spectroscopy, gas chromatography, and synthetic method optimization.
Classroom sessions explore protein modification, nanoscale materials, and the chemistry of rare earth metals. You’ll also plan an independent research project based on peer-reviewed literature and Penn’s online databases.
Dates: July 5 – July 26
Application Deadline: Typically open in January, with admissions rolling until full
Cost: $9,949 (includes tuition, housing, meals, gym access, academic facilities, and extracurriculars); financial aid available for eligible Philadelphia public/charter students. Read about scholarships here.
Location: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
Eligibility: Current 10th–11th grade students who have completed at least one year of high school chemistry. International students welcome.
10. Experimental Physics Research Academy – University of Pennsylvania
This academy offers a solid foundation in mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum dynamics, and astrophysics through a combination of lectures, hands-on laboratory work, and exposure to active research conducted by Penn faculty. Over three weeks, you will gain a conceptual understanding of physical systems through daily lectures, team discussions, and hands-on experiments.
In the lab, you’ll apply foundational concepts to explore motion, circuits, optics, and quantum principles. You’ll also attend faculty-led research talks covering specialized areas like nuclear decay, quantum optics, and general relativity.
Dates: July 5 – July 26
Application Deadline: Typically open in January, with admissions rolling until full
Cost: $9,949 (includes tuition, housing, meals, gym access, academic facilities, and extracurriculars); financial aid available for eligible Philadelphia public/charter students. Read about scholarships here.
Location: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
Eligibility: Current 9th–11th grade students. Prior physics coursework is encouraged but not required. International students are welcome.
11. Economics Academy – University of Pennsylvania
This program introduces you to foundational economic models and analytical tools with a global, policy-oriented lens. You’ll explore core topics such as scarcity, market failures, monopolies, and public goods, then apply these through daily case studies, collaborative workshops, and real-time economic news discussions. The curriculum emphasizes clarity in the use of economic terminology, the interpretation of policy, and an understanding of how economic systems function across countries. You’ll also work on a capstone project analyzing a real-world economic challenge using theoretical models covered in class.
Dates: July 5 – July 26
Application Deadline: Typically open in January, with admissions rolling until full
Cost: $9,949 (includes tuition, housing, meals, gym access, academic facilities, and extracurriculars); financial aid available for eligible Philadelphia public/charter students. Read about scholarships here.
Location: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
Eligibility: Current 9th–11th grade students. No prerequisites required. Open to U.S. and international students (tourist or B-2 visa needed).
12. Global Culture and Media Academy – University of Pennsylvania
This program explores the intersections of language, culture, and media through a research-driven, communication-focused lens. You’ll engage in activities around intercultural dialogue, deconstruct stereotypes in global marketing, critique media representations, and explore ethnographic methods to analyze cultural practices. The curriculum aligns with ACTFL Can-Do statements, helping you develop practical global citizenship skills, such as responding to media with cultural sensitivity and collaborating across cultures on digital platforms.
Dates: July 5 – July 26
Application Deadline: Typically open in January, with admissions rolling until full
Cost: $9,949 (includes tuition, housing, meals, gym access, academic facilities, and extracurriculars); financial aid available for eligible Philadelphia public/charter students. Read about scholarships here.
Location: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
Eligibility: Current 10th–11th grade students. Open to international students. No prior coursework in media or culture required.
13. Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Academy – University of Pennsylvania
This research-focused summer program focuses on the biology, spread, and public health impact of infectious diseases, including malaria, HIV/AIDS, COVID-19, and influenza. As a participant, you’ll build foundational knowledge in microbiology, immunology, genetics, and epidemiology while learning how pathogens interact with the human body and society at large.
Hands-on lab work covers pathogen life cycles, diagnostic techniques, and outbreak simulations. Guest lectures feature virologists, epidemiologists, and public health officials, while the final project challenges you to create a data-backed public service announcement about a specific pathogen.
Dates: July 5 – July 26
Application Deadline: Typically open in January, with admissions rolling until full
Cost: $9,949 (includes tuition, housing, meals, gym access, academic facilities, and extracurriculars); financial aid available for eligible Philadelphia public/charter students. Read about scholarships here.
Location: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
Eligibility: Current 9th–11th grade students. One year of high school biology is required. International students are welcome.
14. Social Justice Research Academy – University of Pennsylvania
This program explores critical historical and contemporary social movements through the lens of research, activism, and ethics. You’ll examine topics like racial justice, LGBTQ+ rights, refugee policy, climate justice, and disability advocacy. Classes are led by Penn faculty, supported by teaching fellows, and include field visits to sites like the National Constitution Center and community organizations.
You’ll also work on a capstone project, either a traditional paper or a multimedia presentation, centered around a research question and action plan on an issue you’re passionate about. You can expect to sharpen your ability to analyze systemic inequality, frame narratives, and propose solutions through the lens of public policy, law, or social psychology.
Dates: July 5 – July 26
Application Deadline: Typically open in January, with admissions rolling until full
Cost: $9,949 (includes tuition, housing, meals, gym access, academic facilities, and extracurriculars); financial aid available for eligible Philadelphia public/charter students. Read about scholarships here.
Location: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
Eligibility: Current 9th–11th grade students. International students welcome.
15. High School Summer Internship Program – Magee-Womens Research Institute (MWRI)
This 6-week summer program offers you the chance to work on a mentored research project in women’s and infant health, reproductive biology, or translational biomedical science. Based at MWRI and UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital, you’ll gain exposure to molecular biology, epidemiology, clinical trials, and public health methods.
You’ll present your findings at the program’s capstone symposium and attend “Lunch & Learn” sessions with physician-scientists and translational researchers. Sample projects have explored DNA methylation, fertility preservation, antimicrobial materials, and maternal health equity.
Dates: June 16 – Late July (6 weeks, totaling 240 hours)
Application Deadline: February 7
Cost: Free; students from low-income households may receive a $1,800 stipend
Location: Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh, PA
Eligibility: Current sophomores and juniors residing in southwestern Pennsylvania counties; must be 16+ by program start
Image source – University of Pennsylvania
