20 Great Research Opportunities for High School Students
As high school students continue to show a growing interest in research and exploration, the opportunities available to them are expanding at an unprecedented rate. From STEM to social sciences, there are countless avenues for young minds to delve into. In 2024, here are 20 research programs tailored specifically for high school students, each offering a unique and enriching experience:
Interested in learning more about AI and its impacts on research ahead of college? Find out how YOU can apply artificial intelligence to subjects like science and engineering in InspiritAI’s AI Scholars Program. Students in the Inspirit AI Scholars program craft interdisciplinary AI projects engaging subjects of personal interest to them. Additionally, many students who have participated in the AI+X Individual Research Mentorship have gone on to win prestigious awards at various science fair competitions! Also be sure to check out our previous blog post on learning AI.
Why Do Research as a High School Student?
Engaging in research as a high school student offers a plethora of benefits that extend far beyond the classroom. Here are several compelling reasons why pursuing research during this formative period can be incredibly rewarding:
1. Intellectual Growth: Research challenges students to think critically, analyze information, and solve complex problems. Engaging in scientific inquiry or scholarly exploration fosters intellectual curiosity and encourages students to explore topics in depth, leading to a deeper understanding of various subjects.
2. Hands-On Experience: Research provides an opportunity for hands-on learning, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. Whether conducting experiments in a laboratory, collecting data in the field, or analyzing primary sources, students gain practical skills that are invaluable for academic and professional success.
3. Personal Development: Research fosters personal growth by promoting independence, self-discipline, and resilience. Students learn to navigate the research process, from formulating hypotheses to presenting findings, gaining confidence and self-efficacy along the way.
4. Preparation for College: Engaging in research as a high school student can enhance college readiness by demonstrating initiative, intellectual curiosity, and a genuine passion for learning. Research experience strengthens college applications, setting students apart in the admissions process and opening doors to prestigious universities and scholarship opportunities.
5. Exploration of Interests: Research allows students to explore their interests and discover potential career pathways. Whether exploring scientific phenomena, conducting social science research, or delving into humanities scholarship, students can gain insights into different fields and make informed decisions about their academic and professional futures.
6. Contribution to Knowledge: Research enables students to make meaningful contributions to the advancement of knowledge in their chosen field. By conducting original research or contributing to ongoing projects, students have the opportunity to generate new insights, challenge existing paradigms, and contribute to the collective understanding of complex issues.
7. Networking and Mentorship: Engaging in research provides opportunities for networking and mentorship, connecting students with peers, faculty members, and professionals in their field of interest. Building relationships with mentors and collaborators can provide guidance, support, and valuable resources for future academic and career endeavors.
Overall, conducting research as a high school student offers a transformative experience that fosters intellectual growth, personal development, and preparation for future academic and professional pursuits. Whether pursuing scientific inquiry, scholarly exploration, or creative endeavors, research empowers students to explore their interests, make meaningful contributions, and unlock their full potential.
20 Research Opportunities for High School Students
East Coast
1. Research Science Institute (RSI)
RSI, hosted by the Center for Excellence in Education, is an intensive six-week summer program that immerses high school students in cutting-edge scientific research. Held at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), RSI offers a transformative experience for participants, providing them with the opportunity to work closely with leading researchers and faculty members from across the STEM disciplines. Through hands-on laboratory work, seminars, and collaborative projects, students delve into advanced topics in mathematics, physics, biology, and computer science. RSI not only equips students with valuable research skills but also fosters a vibrant intellectual community where participants engage in lively discussions, exchange ideas, and form lasting connections with peers who share their passion for scientific inquiry. For more information on this exclusive program, make sure to check out our previous blog post here!
2. Simons Summer Research Program
The Simons Summer Research Program, hosted by Stony Brook University, offers high-achieving high school students the chance to engage in meaningful research experiences in mathematics, science, and engineering. Over the course of six weeks, participants work closely with faculty mentors on individual research projects, gaining hands-on experience in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication. Beyond the laboratory, students have the opportunity to attend seminars, workshops, and networking events, providing them with a comprehensive understanding of the research process. The program culminates in a symposium where students present their findings to their peers, mentors, and the broader scientific community, showcasing their contributions to the advancement of knowledge in their respective fields.
3. MIT LaunchX
MIT LaunchX is a premier entrepreneurship program for high school students, offering them the opportunity to develop and launch real startup ventures under the guidance of experienced mentors and industry experts. Over the course of the program, participants engage in an immersive entrepreneurial experience, from ideation to prototype development to pitching their business ideas to potential investors. Through hands-on workshops, mentorship sessions, and collaborative teamwork, students learn essential skills in business strategy, product development, marketing, and finance. Additionally, LaunchX provides access to a vibrant network of alumni and professionals, offering valuable connections and resources to support students as they navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship. By the end of the program, participants emerge with not only a viable startup venture but also a deeper understanding of entrepreneurship and the confidence to pursue their innovative ideas in the real world.
4. Jackson Laboratory Summer Student Program
The Jackson Laboratory Summer Student Program offers high school students a unique opportunity to engage in hands-on research in genetics and genomics alongside leading scientists at The Jackson Laboratory in Maine. Participants in the program work on cutting-edge research projects, gaining valuable experience in experimental techniques, data analysis, and scientific communication. Under the mentorship of faculty members and research scientists, students delve into topics such as cancer genetics, neurobiology, and personalized medicine, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in these critical areas of research. Additionally, the program provides seminars, journal clubs, and networking events that expose students to the broader scientific community and help them develop essential skills for success in STEM fields. By the end of the program, participants emerge with a deeper understanding of genetics and genomics and a portfolio of research experiences that will serve them well in their future academic and professional pursuits.
5. Wolfram High School Summer Research Program
The Wolfram High School Summer Camp offers high school students an immersive experience in computer science and computational thinking. Held at the Wolfram headquarters in Massachusetts, the camp provides participants with hands-on experience using the Wolfram Language, a powerful programming language used in scientific research, data analysis, and computation. Through workshops, coding challenges, and collaborative projects, students learn essential skills in algorithmic thinking, problem-solving, and software development. Additionally, the camp offers seminars and guest lectures from industry professionals and academic experts, exposing students to the latest advances in computer science and technology. By the end of the program, participants emerge with a deeper understanding of computer science principles and practical experience using advanced computational tools, preparing them for further studies and careers in STEM fields.
6. Gelfand Center STEM Education Programs at Carnegie Mellon University
The Carnegie Mellon University Gelfand Center offers programs for motivated high school students interested in pursuing research across a wide range of STEM disciplines. Participants have the opportunity to work closely with faculty mentors and researchers on cutting-edge projects, gaining hands-on experience in areas such as artificial intelligence, robotics, cybersecurity, and data science. Through immersive research experiences, students develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and a deeper understanding of the research process. Programs also provide workshops, seminars, and networking events that expose students to the broader academic and professional communities, helping them build valuable connections and explore future career pathways. By the end of their program, participants emerge with a deeper appreciation for the interdisciplinary nature of STEM fields and the confidence to pursue further studies and careers in these exciting areas of research and innovation.
7. Secondary School Program at Harvard University
The Secondary School Program (SSP) at Harvard University offers high school students a transformative academic experience, including opportunities for research exploration. With access to Harvard's vast resources and renowned faculty, participants can delve into a wide range of disciplines, from STEM fields to social sciences to humanities. The program provides a rigorous and immersive learning environment where students can engage in advanced coursework, seminars, and research projects tailored to their interests and goals. Under the guidance of faculty mentors, participants have the opportunity to conduct independent research, gaining valuable experience in experimental design, data analysis, and scholarly inquiry. Additionally, SSP offers a vibrant community of peers and mentors, providing opportunities for networking, collaboration, and intellectual exchange. By the end of the program, participants emerge with a deeper understanding of their chosen field of study and a portfolio of research experiences that will enhance their academic journey and prepare them for future success.
Midwest/South
8. Clark Scholars Program at Texas Tech University
The Clark Scholars Program, hosted by Texas Tech University, offers high school students the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research in various STEM fields. Participants work closely with faculty mentors on individual research projects, gaining hands-on experience in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students to explore connections between different fields of study and tackle complex scientific challenges. Through workshops, seminars, and networking events, Clark Scholars develop essential skills for success in STEM fields, including critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork. By the end of the program, participants emerge with a deeper understanding of their chosen field of study and a portfolio of research experiences that will enhance their college applications and future career prospects.
9. High School Honors Science, Math, and Engineering Program (HSHSP) at Michigan State University
The High School Honors Science, Math, and Engineering Program (HSHSP) is a rigorous six-week summer program hosted at Michigan State University. Designed for academically talented high school students, HSHSP offers a unique opportunity to engage in hands-on research experiences in science, mathematics, and engineering. Participants work closely with faculty mentors on individual research projects, gaining valuable experience in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, allowing students to explore connections between different fields of study and tackle complex scientific challenges. Through workshops, seminars, and networking events, HSHSP provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of the research process and essential skills for success in STEM fields. By the end of the program, students emerge with a deeper understanding of their chosen field of study and a portfolio of research experiences that will enhance their college applications and future career prospects.
10. Secondary Student Training Program (SSTP) at the University of Iowa
Hosted by the University of Iowa, the Secondary Student Training Program (SSTP) offers high-achieving high school students the opportunity to engage in hands-on research experiences across various disciplines. Over the course of five weeks, participants work closely with faculty mentors on individual research projects, gaining valuable experience in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication. The program covers a wide range of topics, including STEM fields, social sciences, and humanities, allowing students to explore their academic interests and pursue their passion for research. Through workshops, seminars, and networking events, SSTP provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of the research process and essential skills for success in academia and beyond. By the end of the program, students emerge with a deeper understanding of their chosen field of study and a portfolio of research experiences that will enhance their college applications and future career prospects.
West Coast
11. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)
The Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR) offers high school students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in biomedical research at one of the world's leading institutions for scientific innovation. Under the mentorship of Stanford faculty members, participants engage in hands-on laboratory work, gaining valuable experience in techniques ranging from molecular biology to biomedical engineering. Through full-time research placements, students tackle real-world scientific challenges, contributing to projects that have the potential to impact human health and well-being. Beyond the lab, SIMR provides a rich intellectual environment, with seminars, journal clubs, and networking events that expose students to the breadth and depth of biomedical research. By the end of the program, participants emerge with a deeper understanding of the scientific process and a newfound appreciation for the role of research in addressing complex medical issues.
12. Research Mentorship Program (RMP) at UCSB
The Research Mentorship Program (RMP) at the University of California, Santa Barbara (UCSB) connects high school students with distinguished faculty mentors for immersive research experiences in a wide range of disciplines, including STEM, social sciences, and humanities. Through one-on-one mentorship relationships, participants work on individual research projects tailored to their interests and goals, gaining hands-on experience in experimental design, data collection, and analysis. Additionally, RMP provides workshops, seminars, and networking opportunities that expose students to the research process and help them develop essential skills for success in academia and beyond. By the end of the program, participants emerge with a deeper understanding of their chosen field of study and a portfolio of research experiences that will enhance their college applications and future career prospects.
13. California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science (COSMOS)
The California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science (COSMOS) is a four-week residential program hosted by four University of California campuses (UC Davis, UC Irvine, UC Santa Cruz, and UC San Diego). COSMOS offers high-achieving high school students the opportunity to engage in intensive STEM research and coursework. Participants choose from a variety of interdisciplinary courses, ranging from biomedical sciences to engineering to computer science, and work on hands-on projects under the guidance of faculty mentors. Through laboratory experiments, field trips, and seminars, students gain practical experience in scientific inquiry, data analysis, and innovation. Additionally, COSMOS fosters a supportive community of peers and mentors, providing opportunities for collaboration, networking, and personal growth. We have previously covered this program at length in another blog post; see here for more details.
14. Summer High School Internship Program (SHIP) at Fred Hutch Cancer Center
The Summer High School Internship Program (SHIP), hosted by the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, Washington, offers high school students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in cutting-edge biomedical research. Over the course of eight weeks, participants work alongside renowned scientists and researchers on projects related to cancer biology, infectious diseases, immunology, and more. Through hands-on laboratory work, seminars, and interactive workshops, students gain valuable experience in experimental techniques, data analysis, and scientific communication. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students to explore connections between different fields of study and tackle real-world scientific challenges. Additionally, SHIP provides mentorship and networking opportunities that expose students to the broader scientific community and help them develop essential skills for success in STEM fields. By the end of the program, participants emerge with a deeper understanding of biomedical research and a portfolio of research experiences that will enhance their academic and professional aspirations.
Nationwide
15. Inspirit AI 1:1 AI+X Individual Research Mentorship
In the AI + X Independent Mentorship Course, the next generation of engineers, artists, entrepreneurs, scientists, doctors, actors, lawyers, and activists will apply artificial intelligence to meet real problems in their chosen field. This individualized program pairs you with an expert mentor one-on-one to carry out comprehensive research and solve a problem you find interesting. This course places high emphasis on the following engineering, scientific, and design principles: question formulation, hypothesis testing, collaborative debugging, technical excellence, statistical significance, open source deployment, professional research presentation, and effective communication.
Students and mentors will work collaboratively throughout the entire course to customize the scope, topic, strategy, and goals of the program to the student’s background and interest. Upon completion of the course, students will have completed a research proposal and a final research paper. In the past, students have submitted work as part of a senior thesis, to be published in high school journals, deployed as an app for nonprofits, submitted to science fairs, and used in hackathons. Students are able to come in with a specific submission goal in mind or learn about opportunities within the course itself.
16. NASA Internships
NASA offers a wide range of internship opportunities for high school students interested in space exploration, aeronautics, and engineering. From the Ames Research Center to the Jet Propulsion Laboratory, students have the chance to work alongside NASA scientists and engineers on cutting-edge projects that push the boundaries of human knowledge. Whether designing experiments for the International Space Station, analyzing data from Mars rovers, or developing next-generation spacecraft technologies, participants in NASA internships gain hands-on experience that prepares them for future careers in STEM fields. Additionally, the program offers workshops, seminars, and mentorship opportunities that support students' professional and personal growth, fostering a community of aspiring scientists and engineers dedicated to advancing space exploration and scientific discovery.
17. Telluride Association Summer Seminar (TASS)
The Telluride Association Summer Seminar (TASS) is a six-week educational experience for intellectually curious high school students, offering seminars and workshops in a wide range of disciplines, including literature, philosophy, history, and the social sciences. Held at various college campuses across the United States, TASS provides participants with the opportunity to engage in lively discussions, debates, and collaborative projects with peers who share their passion for intellectual inquiry. Through intensive coursework and extracurricular activities, students develop critical thinking skills, analytical abilities, and a deeper understanding of complex issues facing society. Additionally, TASS fosters a supportive community of scholars and provides mentorship opportunities that encourage students to explore their academic interests and pursue their intellectual passions. By the end of the program, participants emerge with a renewed sense of curiosity and a deeper appreciation for the value of lifelong learning.
International
18. Amgen Scholars Program
The Amgen Scholars Program provides high-achieving undergraduate and high school students with the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research in science and biotechnology at top institutions around the globe, including prestigious universities like Harvard, Stanford, and Cambridge. Through intensive research experiences, participants work closely with faculty mentors on projects spanning a wide range of disciplines, from molecular biology to bioinformatics to drug discovery. The program emphasizes hands-on laboratory work, allowing students to gain valuable skills in experimental techniques, data analysis, and scientific communication. Additionally, Amgen Scholars participate in seminars, workshops, and networking events that expose them to the broader scientific community and provide insights into career pathways in STEM fields. By the end of the program, participants emerge with a deeper understanding of scientific research and a network of peers and mentors that will support their future academic and professional endeavors.
19. ISSYP - Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics
The International Summer School for Young Physicists (ISSYP), hosted by the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics, offers high school students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in theoretical physics research. Over the course of two weeks, participants engage in intensive lectures, seminars, and hands-on research projects under the guidance of world-renowned physicists. The program covers a wide range of topics, including quantum mechanics, relativity, cosmology, and particle physics, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of fundamental principles and current research trends in theoretical physics. Through collaborative projects and discussions, participants develop critical thinking skills, problem-solving abilities, and a deeper appreciation for the beauty and complexity of the universe. Additionally, ISSYP fosters a supportive community of peers and mentors, providing opportunities for networking, mentorship, and academic enrichment. By the end of the program, participants emerge with a deeper understanding of theoretical physics and the confidence to pursue further studies and careers in STEM fields.
20. Research Internships in Science and Engineering (RISE) Germany
The Research Internships in Science and Engineering (RISE) program offers high school students the opportunity to engage in hands-on research experiences at leading research institutions in Germany. Through full-time research placements, participants work alongside scientists and engineers on cutting-edge projects in STEM fields, gaining valuable experience in experimental techniques, data analysis, and scientific communication. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students to explore connections between different fields of study and tackle real-world scientific challenges. Additionally, RISE provides workshops, seminars, and networking events that expose students to the broader scientific community and help them develop essential skills for success in academia and industry. By the end of the program, participants emerge with a deeper understanding of scientific research and a global perspective on the opportunities and challenges facing the scientific community.
Conclusion
The array of research opportunities available to high school students in 2024 provides an invaluable platform for intellectual growth, personal development, and exploration of academic interests. Engaging in research as a high school student offers a multitude of benefits, from hands-on learning experiences to preparation for college and beyond. These programs represent just a fraction of the opportunities available to high school students interested in research. For more information on high school research, check out our previous blog posts on research programs and research competitions for high school students!
About Inspirit AI
AI Scholars Live Online is a 10 session (25-hour) program that exposes high school students to fundamental AI concepts and guides them to build a socially impactful project. Taught by our team of graduate students from Stanford, MIT, and more, students receive a personalized learning experience in small groups with a student-teacher ratio of 5:1.
