Key Takeaways
- These 15 lab opportunities span universities, medical schools, and research institutes across New Jersey, from molecular biology at the Waksman Institute to cancer research at Rutgers and biomedical engineering at Rowan University.
- Program formats vary considerably, from short one- to two-week introductory sessions to longer six- to ten-week research placements, so you can choose based on how much time you want to commit.
- Several programs are free to attend, including the Princeton Laboratory Learning Program and GSET, while others charge a program fee ranging from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, with financial aid available in some cases.
- Many placements pair you directly with a faculty mentor or research scientist on an active project, and a number conclude with a poster or symposium presentation where you share your findings.
- If you want a longer research experience that culminates in an independent paper rather than a structured lab placement, Horizon’s Research Seminars and Labs offer a mentored path to a formal academic paper across 600+ specializations.
15 Lab Opportunities in New Jersey for High School Students
Participating in a structured lab program is an effective way to develop practical research skills while exploring different STEM fields. These programs place you in university laboratories, research institutes, medical centers, and engineering facilities where you can learn how scientific research is conducted beyond the classroom. Unlike traditional science classes, lab programs emphasize hands-on research and technical skill development. Depending on the program, you may learn laboratory techniques such as PCR, DNA extraction, gel electrophoresis, microscopy, cell culture, and experimental design. Some programs also introduce computational tools like Python, MATLAB, R, BLAST, and genome databases for data analysis and bioinformatics. Along the way, you’ll gain experience maintaining laboratory notebooks, interpreting experimental results, reviewing scientific literature, preparing research posters, and presenting your findings.
New Jersey’s research ecosystem specifically offers access to a wide range of disciplines and research environments. As a result, whether you’re interested in molecular biology, biomedical engineering, environmental science, chemistry, or computer science, there are lab opportunities in New Jersey for high school students with diverse interests, experience levels, and long-term academic goals. Below is a curated list of 15 lab opportunities in New Jersey for high school students. If you’re exploring opportunities beyond the Garden State, check out our guide to summer research programs for high school students here.
Why should you choose a program in New Jersey for high school students?
New Jersey is one of the leading life sciences and research hubs in the United States, making it a strong location for high school students seeking laboratory experience. The state is home to research-intensive institutions such as Princeton University, Rutgers University, and New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT), where research spans biotechnology, engineering, medicine, chemistry, computer science, and environmental science.
Beyond its universities, New Jersey has one of the nation’s largest concentrations of pharmaceutical, biotechnology, and healthcare organizations, along with independent research institutes such as the Coriell Institute for Medical Research. This research ecosystem gives high school students access to programs covering topics ranging from cancer biology and genetics to biomedical engineering, toxicology, materials science, and computational biology. They help you build technical laboratory skills while gaining exposure to the research environments commonly found in higher education and scientific careers.
1. Princeton Laboratory Learning Program (LLP)
Location: Princeton University, Princeton, New Jersey, NJ
Cost: Free
Dates: Typically 5–6 weeks during the summer (June–August; schedules vary by lab)
Application Deadline: March 15
Eligibility: Students must be at least 16 years old by June 15, attend a local New Jersey high school, be U.S. citizens currently residing in the United States, and provide their own transportation to campus
The Princeton Laboratory Learning Program (LLP) is a free summer research opportunity for local New Jersey high school students interested in science and engineering. Participants work full-time in Princeton University laboratories under the supervision of faculty members and research staff, contributing to ongoing research projects. The program typically lasts five to six weeks during regular weekday hours, with schedules varying by department and project. Students receive hands-on laboratory experience, complete required safety training, and submit a two-page research summary at the end of the program. LLP is not a residential program, and housing, transportation, and social activities are not provided. Because of the program’s competitive nature, only a small percentage of applicants are selected each year.
2. Waksman Student Scholars Program (WSSP)
Location: Primarily hosted through participating high schools, with summer institutes at Rutgers University and partner institutions, including Johns Hopkins University and Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
Cost: No cost for participating schools (varies by school participation)
Dates: Year-long program beginning with summer institutes and continuing throughout the academic year
Application Deadline: Announced annually
Eligibility: High school students participating through a teacher at a participating school | Typically, one or two students attend the summer institute with their teacher, with additional students joining during the school year through classes or clubs
The Waksman Student Scholars Program (WSSP) is a year-long research program that introduces high school students to molecular biology and bioinformatics through authentic scientific research. The program begins with summer institutes attended by teachers and selected students and continues during the academic year at participating schools. You work alongside teachers and research scientists to investigate real biological questions, analyze genetic data, and contribute to ongoing research projects. Participants gain hands-on experience in laboratory techniques and computational biology while learning how scientific research is conducted. You may also have opportunities to publish findings and share your work with the broader scientific community. The program aims to encourage continued study and careers in science by engaging students in genuine research experiences.
3. Waksman Institute Summer Experience (WISE)
Location: Waksman Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, NJ | Online
Cost: $2,200 (in person) | $600 (online)
Dates: June 22–July 2 | July 27–August 7 | Online – August 10 – 21
Application Deadline: Applications typically open in February
Eligibility: High school students who have completed a high school biology course and can attend all program sessions
The Waksman Institute Summer Experience (WISE) is a two-week, non-residential summer research program that introduces high school students to molecular biology and bioinformatics. Students attend daily seminars taught by Rutgers faculty and participate in laboratory sessions focused on analyzing genes from the aquatic plant Landoltia punctata (duckweed). You learn molecular biology techniques, purify and analyze DNA fragments, and use bioinformatics tools commonly employed by professional scientists. Students also conduct independent assignments and report their findings throughout the program. DNA sequence analyses completed during the program may be submitted to GenBank, where published entries acknowledge students by name. The program provides hands-on experience in both laboratory research and computational biology.
4. Rutgers Youth Enjoy Science (RUYES)
Location: Rutgers Cancer Institute, New Brunswick, New Jersey, NJ
Stipend: Paid | Participants receive compensation and may receive support for additional expenses
Dates: Late June–August
Application Deadline: Applications typically open in early November and close in late February
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors or seniors who are at least 16 years old by June 15 | U.S. citizens or permanent residents, enrolled at schools in New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, or Connecticut, and able to commute to Rutgers Cancer Institute in New Brunswick
The Rutgers Youth Enjoy Science (RUYES) program is a two-year cancer research and career development program for high school students interested in biomedical science and oncology. Participants conduct research in mentor-supervised laboratories for approximately 35 hours per week during a 10-week summer experience each year. You participate in educational seminars covering cancer biology, research methods, and scientific literature while working alongside researchers and faculty mentors. During the academic year, participants complete professional development and community engagement activities totaling approximately 70 hours annually.
5. Governor’s School of Engineering & Technology (GSET)
Location: Rutgers University School of Engineering, New Brunswick, New Jersey, NJ
Cost: Free; no cost to participants or families
Dates: July 6–31, with required virtual sessions during the week of July 6–10 and on-campus residency beginning July 11
Application Deadline: January 8
Eligibility: New Jersey residents who are high school juniors, demonstrate a strong interest in engineering and technology, rank among the top students in their school, and are willing to live on campus for the duration of the program
The Governor’s School of Engineering & Technology (GSET) is a residential summer program for academically strong New Jersey high school juniors interested in engineering and technology. Students spend approximately one month at Rutgers University participating in hands-on courses, research projects, and collaborative engineering activities. The curriculum includes core courses such as robotics and physics, along with electives covering topics such as materials science, electronics, game design, and nanotechnology. You work in small groups on research and design projects under the guidance of faculty and industry mentors, culminating in a research paper and symposium presentation.
6. Toxicology, Health & Environmental Disease (THED) High School Summer Program
Location: Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI), Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, NJ
Cost: $975 program fee
Dates: Session 1: July 20–24 | Session 2: July 27–31
Application Deadline: March 2
Eligibility: High school students entering 10th, 11th, or 12th grade in the fall who have completed at least one high school biology course and have an interest in biomedical or environmental sciences
The Toxicology, Health & Environmental Disease (THED) High School Summer Program is a one-week, non-residential summer program that introduces students to toxicology, environmental health, and biomedical sciences. Participants attend daily sessions on laboratory ethics, experimental design, genetics, pharmacogenetics, drug disposition, and clinical toxicology. The program also explores careers in medicine, pharmacy, environmental science, toxicology, and biomedical research. Students receive hands-on training in basic laboratory techniques and participate in classroom and laboratory activities throughout the week. The program is designed as a training experience rather than an independent research internship. Housing and transportation are not provided, and students are expected to attend all program activities during the session.
7. Coriell Summer Experience for High School Students
Location: Coriell Institute for Medical Research, Camden, New Jersey, NJ
Cost: Free
Dates: Mid-July–mid-August (four weeks)
Application Deadline: Applications typically open in February
Eligibility: Students must be at least 17 years old by July 1, be U.S. residents, have a strong interest in science, be available for the entire four-week program, and be able to commute to Coriell’s facility in Camden, New Jersey | Limited to only three students annually
The Coriell Summer Experience for High School Students is a four-week laboratory program that provides students with exposure to biomedical research and biotechnology operations. You work alongside scientists and technicians in production, stem cell, and molecular biology laboratories, as well as biobanking facilities. Students learn laboratory techniques related to cell culture, DNA extraction, sample preservation, and stem cell research while observing procedures such as chromosome analysis and genetic testing methods. The program also includes weekly scientific seminars featuring researchers from Coriell and other institutions.
8. New Jersey Governor’s School in the Sciences (NJGSS)
Location: Drew University, Madison, New Jersey, NJ
Cost: Free
Dates: Late June–late July
Application Deadline: Applications are typically submitted between mid-November and mid-January through the high school nomination process
Eligibility: New Jersey high school juniors who are nominated by their school | Students are selected based on academic achievement, advanced coursework in science and mathematics, demonstrated interest in science, and teacher recommendations
The New Jersey Governor’s School in the Sciences is a selective summer program for high-achieving New Jersey high school students interested in science and mathematics. Students must first be nominated by their high school before completing the application process. Selection is based on academic performance, the rigor of science and math coursework, extracurricular involvement, essays, and recommendations from science and math teachers. You study alongside other motivated students from across the state in an intensive academic environment. The program emphasizes scientific inquiry, advanced learning, and collaboration among students with strong interests in STEM fields. Enrollment is limited each year, with final selections announced in early April.
9. High School Biomedical Scholars Program
Location: Rowan University Stratford Campus, Stratford, New Jersey, NJ
Cost: $1,500
Dates: August 3–14
Application Deadline: April 1
Eligibility: High school students with a minimum GPA of 3.2 who are interested in biomedical sciences or medicine
The High School Biomedical Scholars Program is a two-week summer program offered by the Rowan-Virtua School of Translational Biomedical Engineering and Sciences and the Rowan-Virtua School of Osteopathic Medicine. Participants work with faculty and graduate student mentors while learning laboratory techniques and conducting biomedical experiments. You gain exposure to research methods used in biomedical science and have the opportunity to participate in a human gross anatomy laboratory experience or an alternative activity. The program also introduces students to careers in medicine, biomedical research, and graduate education.
10. RISER (Research Immersion in Biomedical Science and Engineering at Rowan)
Location: Rowan University laboratories in Glassboro, Camden, and Stratford, New Jersey, NJ
Cost: Free
Dates: June 29–August 7
Application Deadline: Teacher nominations are typically due May 15, followed by a student application due within three weeks of nomination
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors who reside in or attend high school in South Jersey | Students from outside South Jersey may apply if they live within a 30-minute drive of their assigned laboratory and can participate in regular in-person research activities
The RISER (Research Immersion in Biomedical Science and Engineering at Rowan) Summer Program is a six-week, non-residential research program for high school students interested in biomedical science and engineering. You are placed in biomedical engineering or biomedical sciences laboratories at Rowan University, where you conduct guided and independent research under faculty supervision. Students spend at least 20 hours per week in their assigned laboratories, gaining experience with research methods and scientific investigation. The program concludes with a symposium where participants present their research to faculty mentors, peers, family members, and teachers.
11. Group Summer Scholars Research Program (GSSRP)
Location: Kean University, Union, New Jersey, NJ
Cost: 4-week session: $3,000 (early commitment) or $5,000 (standard) | 2-week session: $1,500 (early commitment) or $3,000 (standard) | Need-based financial assistance may be available
Dates: 4-Week Session: July 6–30 | 2-Week Session: July 20–30
Application Deadline: March 6
Eligibility: Current high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors | Students must commit to the entire session and arrange their own transportation
The Group Summer Scholars Research Program (GSSRP) is a summer research program for high school students interested in science, mathematics, engineering, and related STEM fields. You work with Kean University faculty and research staff on projects in areas such as cancer biology, machine learning, developmental biology, scientific computation, and drug discovery. You gain experience conducting research within collaborative teams while developing technical, analytical, and problem-solving skills. The program also includes professional development activities, laboratory demonstrations, college-preparation guidance, and discussions of STEM career pathways.
12. STEMxSummer Program – Applied Engineering Technology
Location: NJIT, Newark, New Jersey, NJ
Cost: $725
Dates: July 20–24
Application Deadline: Early admission typically closes March 1, with regular admission in April (subject to capacity)
Eligibility: Current 10th- and 11th-grade students with a B average or higher
The Applied Engineering Technology program provides students with hands-on experience in several engineering disciplines. Participants work with technologies such as 3D printing, electronics, robotics, and the Internet of Things (IoT). Activities emphasize design thinking, problem-solving, and collaborative project development. You learn laboratory safety and engineering fundamentals while completing individual and group projects. The program concludes with presentations or demonstrations of student work. The curriculum is designed to introduce participants to practical engineering applications and maker culture.
13. STEMxSummer Program – Materials Engineering
Location: NJIT, Newark, New Jersey, NJ
Cost: $725
Dates: July 13–17
Application Deadline: Early admission typically closes March 1, with regular admission in April (subject to capacity)
Eligibility: Current 10th- and 11th-grade students with a B average or higher
The Materials Engineering program explores how scientists and engineers develop and use materials to solve real-world problems. Students study polymers, metals, biomaterials, and emerging materials technologies through hands-on activities and demonstrations. Topics include bioprinting, tissue engineering, data science, and artificial intelligence in materials design. You also examine advanced materials such as two-dimensional semiconductors and environmental sensors. Laboratory activities help students understand how materials influence industries such as healthcare, energy, and manufacturing.
14. Liberty Science Center Pathways to Partners in Science
Location: Liberty Science Center, Jersey City, New Jersey, NJ
Cost: Free
Dates: Cohort 1: July 13–24 | Cohort 2: July 27–August 7
Application Deadline: Applications typically open in the fall
Eligibility: Rising 10th-grade students who can attend the full two-week session and have an interest in science and technology
Pathways to Partners in Science is a two-week introductory research program designed for students entering 10th grade. The program includes hands-on workshops, guided projects, and activities focused on scientific inquiry and research skills. Students learn data collection and analysis, science communication, collaboration, and STEM career exploration. The experience is intended to prepare participants for future research opportunities, including the Partners in Science program. Sessions take place at Liberty Science Center and emphasize teamwork and professional conduct in scientific environments.
15. Cooper Medical School of Rowan University MEDacademy
Location: Cooper Medical School of Rowan University, Camden, New Jersey, NJ
Cost: $3,000
Dates: June 29–July 24
Application Deadline: Preferred deadline: April 1
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors with a minimum GPA of 3.3, successful completion of math and science courses, and a demonstrated interest in medicine
MEDacademy is a four-week summer day program that introduces high school students to medical education and healthcare careers. You explore medical specialties including pathology, cardiopulmonary medicine, gastroenterology, and neurology through lectures, case-based learning, clinical simulations, and hands-on activities. You interact with faculty, medical students, and healthcare professionals while gaining exposure to the medical school environment. The program also includes guest speakers, potential hospital experiences, and collaborative research projects. At the conclusion of the program, students present a group project during a closing ceremony. Students who successfully complete the program may receive transferable Rowan University credits.
One more option – Horizon Academic Research Program
If you’re interested in conducting independent research beyond traditional laboratory experiences, consider applying to Horizon’s Research Seminars and Labs! This is a selective virtual research program that lets you engage in advanced research and develop a research paper on a subject of your choosing. Horizon has worked with 1000+ high school students so far and offers 600+ research specializations for you to choose from. You can find the application link here!
Frequently Asked Questions
What kinds of lab opportunities are available to high school students in New Jersey?
You’ll find a mix of program types, including university research placements like the Princeton Laboratory Learning Program and the Waksman Institute Summer Experience, medical and biomedical programs like the Coriell Summer Experience and MEDacademy at Cooper Medical School, and engineering-focused options like NJIT’s STEMxSummer programs. Horizon’s Research Seminars and Labs offers a different kind of option, letting you conduct independent research remotely across a wide range of subjects rather than joining a fixed on-site lab.
Do you need prior lab experience to apply?
It depends on the program. Some, like the Waksman Institute Summer Experience and the THED Program, require you to have completed at least one high school biology course before applying. Others, like NJIT’s STEMxSummer programs and Liberty Science Center’s Pathways to Partners in Science, are designed to introduce lab techniques and research skills to students without prior hands-on experience.
Are there free options available?
Yes, several programs on this list don’t charge a fee. The Princeton Laboratory Learning Program, the Governor’s School of Engineering & Technology, the Coriell Summer Experience, the New Jersey Governor’s School in the Sciences, RISER, and Liberty Science Center’s Pathways to Partners in Science are all free to participate in.
Which programs offer stipends or paid positions?
A couple of these programs compensate participants. Rutgers Youth Enjoy Science (RUYES) provides paid compensation along with potential support for additional expenses, making it one of the few paid options on this list. Most other programs on this list are unpaid, though several, like the Princeton Laboratory Learning Program and GSET, are free to attend even without a stipend.
Are these programs restricted to New Jersey residents?
Many of them are. The Princeton Laboratory Learning Program requires attendance at a local New Jersey high school, GSET is limited to New Jersey residents, and the New Jersey Governor’s School in the Sciences requires a school nomination specific to the state. RISER is a partial exception, accepting students from outside South Jersey as long as they live within a 30-minute drive of their assigned lab, so it’s worth checking each program’s specific residency rules.
Is there a way to pursue independent research beyond a structured lab placement?
Yes. If you’re interested in conducting independent research beyond traditional laboratory experiences, Horizon’s Research Seminars and Labs pairs you with a professor or PhD scholar to develop a 20-page research paper you can submit for academic publication. The program also provides a letter of recommendation and detailed feedback, and covers over 600 research specializations. You can find the application here.
When should you apply?
Deadlines for these programs are spread throughout the year, so it helps to plan ahead. GSET has one of the earliest deadlines at January 8, while several others cluster between February and March, including the Waksman Institute Summer Experience (applications open in February) and the Princeton Laboratory Learning Program (March 15). April brings a few more deadlines, including the High School Biomedical Scholars Program and MEDacademy, both due April 1. Horizon, by contrast, has multiple deadlines throughout the year across its Spring, Summer, and Fall cohorts, giving you more flexibility if you miss an earlier cutoff.
Image source: Princeton University