15 Research Programs for High School Students in Europe

Key takeaways

1. Europe has an unusually dense network of universities, hospitals, and research institutes, so in-person placements exist across a wide range of fields, not just the usual STEM staples.
2. A concrete final output matters more than the program’s prestige. A scientific report, poster, or paper gives you something specific to describe later, a certificate of attendance doesn’t.
3. Eligibility is often restricted by country or region, not just age. Several UK-based programs require attendance at a state-funded school, and some are limited to specific nationalities.
4. Costs and formats vary enormously, from fully free placements with travel reimbursement to residential programs costing several thousand pounds or euros.
5. Deadlines and costs shift year to year for every program on this list. Confirm current figures directly on each program’s site before applying.

Research programs for high school students give you a structured way to investigate a question rather than just study a subject in class. Depending on the program and field, you might formulate a research question, review scientific literature, design an experiment, collect data, or work with an existing dataset. You may also use tools such as Python, R, statistical software, GIS platforms, CAD programs, or laboratory equipment.

Your work can span fields including biology, medicine, physics, mathematics, computer science, engineering, environmental science, and the social sciences. You might learn techniques such as microscopy, experimental design, statistical analysis, scientific writing, computational modeling, or field sampling. Many programs also have you produce a concrete research output, such as a scientific report, poster, presentation, or research paper.

If you are considering research in college, these experiences can help you understand how academic research works and identify the subjects, methods, and research environments you want to explore further. In this guide, you’ll find a curated list of 15 research programs for high school students in Europe, ranging from laboratory-based placements to mathematics and computer science projects. If you are looking for broader opportunities, you can also check out our guide on summer research programs for high school students here.t.

Why should you choose a research program in Europe?

Europe has a dense network of universities, public research institutes, hospitals, museums, and specialized scientific organizations. For a high school student, that means you can find research experiences connected to institutions working in fields ranging from biomedical science and physics to mathematics, engineering, and environmental research. Programs across Europe also expose you to different research environments. You may work in a university laboratory, join a research placement at an institute, conduct fieldwork, or collaborate with students and researchers from different countries. Depending on the program, you could use university laboratory equipment, work with research datasets, attend seminars, or present your findings in an academic setting. If you know the field you want to explore, studying in Europe can also let you see how that subject is researched at different universities and institutions.

1. Research STEM Programme by STEMpoint

Research STEM is a two-week program that gives you hands-on research experience at a STEM organization and helps you prepare for future STEM study and careers. You’ll work with a supervisor on a research project or investigation in a STEM subject of your choice and gain face-to-face experience. Along with your placement, you’ll receive training in important STEM topics, attend workshops that help you build your confidence and transferable skills, and take part in mental health and wellbeing sessions. You’ll also receive mentoring from experienced professionals and guidance on writing research reports, which will strengthen both your research skills and professional development.

2. Karolinska Institutet Summer Research School for High School Students

Karolinska Institutet’s Summer Research School gives you several weeks of experience in academic research and introduces you to the daily work of a researcher. You’ll start with an introductory week, spend about five weeks working full-time on a supervised research project, and end the program by presenting your work. Depending on your project, you’ll collect data, use laboratory techniques, learn basic experimental methods, and complete assignments on research design and scientific communication. You’ll also get to attend research workshops, popular science lectures, and social activities. The program helps you explore biomedical research.

3. The Francis Crick Institute’s Work Experience Programme

The Francis Crick Institute Work Experience Programme gives you the chance to explore careers in science and the teams that support research. Working under staff supervision, you’ll take part in activities based on your placement. Research laboratory placements introduce you to fields like genetics, cell biology, immunology, and bioinformatics, while non-laboratory placements are available in public engagement, IT, reception services, and education. The program helps students studying in Camden experience what it’s like to work at the Crick. You’ll be able to apply for multiple placements, but if you’re offered more than one, you’ll only be able to attend one placement at the Crick during the same academic year.

4. Summer Research School in Mathematics and Informatics

The Summer Research School is for high school students interested in mathematics, informatics, and ICT. You’ll work one-on-one with scientific mentors from the Bulgarian Academy of Sciences and international universities on an individual research project in areas such as algebra, combinatorics, computing, modeling, number theory, and related fields. You’ll also meet researchers and industry professionals, attend lectures on advanced scientific topics and modern technologies, build soft skills, and join discussions on responsible innovation, research ethics, and the role of science in society. The High School Student Institute of Mathematics and Informatics (HSSIMI) organizes the program.

5. Guildhouse School London Summer Programmes — Bloomberg Business Advantage

Guildhouse School London offers summer programs in STEM, business, English, communication, and presentation for high school students. If you choose the business, finance, and economics course, you’ll complete the eight-module Bloomberg Market Concepts certification and learn to use the Bloomberg Terminal, a platform widely used in investment banking. You’ll study management, leadership, marketing, and ethics, and conduct financial market research with Bloomberg Terminals. You’ll present your research to a panel of judges on the final day and have the opportunity to earn the Bloomberg Market Concepts qualification. You’ll also get to attend workshops and visit the Bank of England, a business university, and Bloomberg’s European headquarters to connect classroom learning with real-world finance.

6. Research Academy for Young Scientists (RAYS)

RAYS is a four-week summer research academy for second-year high school students who are interested in technology, natural sciences, and mathematics. You’ll study scientific methods, complete a research project with researchers from Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm University, or the Royal Institute of Technology, and learn about life as a researcher. During the first week, you’ll explore the history of science, research methods, LaTeX, Python, and scientific writing. You’ll work on a research project matched to your interests for the next two weeks. In the final week, you’ll write a scientific report and present your work at a seminar at the National Museum of Science and Technology. Your project might also get published as a scientific article, along with lectures, workshops, and guest sessions from academia and industry.

7. Nuffield Research Placements

The Nuffield Research Placements program gives you up to two weeks of hands-on research experience working with scientists and industry professionals on a real STEM project, as well as independent study before and after your placement. You’ll contribute to ongoing research, investigate a live research question, and apply scientific methods. This will help you build practical, analytical, and subject-specific skills and gain insight into university-level research. Placements take place in laboratories, research centers, museums, offices, and fieldwork settings across science, computing, mathematics, quantitative social science, technology, engineering, and interdisciplinary fields. You’ll also prepare a scientific report and poster, become eligible for the Gold CREST Award or Big Bang Competition, strengthen your UCAS application, and join the Nuffield Alumni Network.

8. University of Edinburgh’s Pre-University Summer School — Life Sciences Track

University of Edinburgh Pre-University Summer School’s Life Sciences track introduces you to biology, chemistry, biochemistry, genetics, immunology, molecular and cellular biology, and biodiversity, as well as careers in the life sciences. You’ll learn how scientific research addresses real-world challenges by meeting scientists, discussing current research, and investigating major scientific questions. The program helps you build research skills by teaching the scientific method, designing and carrying out investigations, analyzing scientific data, using laboratory equipment, and communicating research findings. Classes include mini-lectures, workshops, tutorials, and lab sessions, as well as guidance on academic writing and on applying to UK universities. You’ll also get to work with peers to plan, complete, analyze, and present a supervised scientific investigation.

9. In2STEM by In2scienceUK

The In2STEM program gives you the chance to explore careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through hands-on research experience. After an induction event, you’ll complete a one- to two-week placement at a nearby laboratory or workplace and work with researchers, scientists, and STEM professionals. You’ll observe research methods, use professional equipment, and see how scientific investigations are carried out. Along with your placement, you’ll attend online workshops on research skills, public engagement competitions, careers, and employability. You’ll also have the option to turn your placement into a CREST Award submission. The program concludes with a celebration event, after which you’ll be invited to join the In2STEM Alumni Community.

10. Fundació Catalunya La Pedrera: Youth and Science Program (Phase 1)

The Youth and Science Program begins with a 15-day research experience at MónNatura Pirineus, where you’ll work in small teams on a scientific project guided by professional researchers in a high mountain setting. Phase 1 will help you build important research skills as you’ll investigate scientific questions, complete field or lab activities, and learn how research is planned and carried out with step-by-step mentorship. After the program, you’ll write a scientific article that covers the entire research process, and its quality determines selection for the next phase. Students who continue can later join research teams at leading research centers in Catalonia and eventually pursue independent research projects at local or international institutions that match their scientific interests.

11. University College London’s GOS ICH Work Experience

The GOS ICH Work Experience is a one-week program held twice a year for students interested in biomedical and scientific research careers. You’ll explore research across five teaching and research departments by joining talks, laboratory sessions, seminars, and Journal Club discussions with researchers and PhD students. You’ll learn to use pipettes and microscopes, and visit clinical laboratories at Great Ormond Street Hospital. You’ll explore topics like genetic analysis and pediatric epidemiology, and learn how research improves children’s healthcare. The program also introduces you to developing research questions, designing experiments, analyzing data, and publishing findings. It does not include hospital ward placements.

12. XLAB International Science Camp

XLAB International Science Camp is a summer program in Germany where you’ll choose three week-long science courses in fields like physics, chemistry, neurobiology, quantum physics, biology, molecular medicine, lake ecosystems, and sustainability. You’ll work in small groups using university-grade laboratory equipment to perform experiments, analyze data, write scientific reports, and present your findings to other participants at the end of each course. Active researchers from the University of Göttingen and Max Planck Institutes supervise the program and give you direct exposure to professional research and advanced scientific topics. You’ll also get to experience an international learning environment with cultural activities and opportunities to collaborate with students from around the world.

13. London International Youth Science Forum (LIYSF) STEM Summer Camp

The London International Youth Science Forum STEM Summer Camp is a two-week program where you’ll explore STEM with students from more than 90 countries. You’ll attend lectures and tutorials led by leading scientists, researchers, and Nobel Prize winners, as well as learn about current scientific advances, research methods, and research ethics. You’ll visit university laboratories and research centers, take part in research projects, and even get to present your findings. If you’ve already completed a school research project, you’ll also have the chance to present it at the Science Bazaar and poster sessions for expert feedback. The program includes visits to Oxford and Cambridge, plus social activities such as debates, quizzes, treasure hunts, sports, theatre, and cultural evenings. You’ll also get a certificate of participation and access to networking opportunities.

14. Royal Veterinary College’s Pre-Vet Summer School

Royal Veterinary College’s Pre-Vet Summer School is a 13-day residential program that gives you an introduction to veterinary medicine through lectures, practical training, and research. You’ll complete a research project, work on a real veterinary case, develop clinical skills, and take part in group learning led by RVC academics. The program also includes 35 hours of work experience, with about 21 hours in clinical settings and 14 hours in animal handling at locations such as the Queen Mother Hospital for Animals, Equine Referral Hospital, Beaumont Sainsbury Animal Hospital, and Bolton’s Park Farm. You’ll receive mentoring, application guidance, and career insights, join social activities, and build academic, professional, and research skills.

15. Imperial College London’s Year 12 Work Experience Programme

Imperial College London’s Year 12 Work Experience Programme gives you a five-day introduction to academic research and careers in higher education. You’ll explore research across departments like Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering, Biomedical Research, the Grantham Institute for Climate Change and the Environment, Mathematics, Materials, and the National Heart and Lung Institute. You’ll get to learn how research is carried out, communicated, and applied in real-world settings. You’ll experience a typical work routine by commuting to campus, meeting deadlines, attending workshops, and working in research and teaching laboratories and specialist technical facilities. Along with your placement, you’ll attend sessions on interview skills, personal statements, university applications, career planning, and higher education pathways.

One more option – Horizon Academic Research Program

If you’re looking for a competitive mentored research program, 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

Do these programs require you to already live in Europe?

Most in-person UK programs specifically require attendance at a UK state-funded school or residence in a specific region, so check eligibility closely before applying. Several other European programs, and Horizon’s fully virtual option, are open to international applicants regardless of where you live.

Are free programs on this list less competitive than paid ones?

No. Several free programs, including Nuffield Research Placements and the Francis Crick Institute’s placements, are described as highly selective or competitive, while some paid programs have more accessible admissions. Cost and selectivity don’t move together in either direction.

How far in advance should you apply to a European research program?

Quite far. Several programs on this list open applications six months or more before the program starts, and highly selective placements often have the earliest deadlines. Start researching your options at least the fall before the summer you’re targeting.

Can you do a European research program if you don’t live in the UK or EU?

Yes, for the programs that explicitly note international eligibility, though visa requirements and English proficiency thresholds often apply. Fully virtual options like Horizon avoid this consideration entirely, since they involve no travel or visa process.

What’s the difference between a work experience placement and a research program?

A work experience placement, common across several UK options on this list, focuses on observing and assisting with research and understanding a research career day to day. A structured research program more often has you contribute to or complete an actual project with a defined output, like a report or paper, by the end.

Resources

More from the Horizon blog

• This guide to picking a research topic
• Can you do real research online in high school?

Image source: University of Edinburgh