30 Game-Changing Research Programs for High Schoolers (No Fluff, All Links)

April 08, 2025 :: Admissionado

What do gene editing, climate modeling, and cognitive neuroscience have in common? High schoolers are doing real research in them. Not science fair stuff—published, mentored, grant-backed work. It’s happening more and more, and colleges are loving it. Why? Because research screams curiosity, initiative, and grit—the exact traits elite schools crave. Whether you’re into medicine, econ, or engineering, research shows you’re ready to contribute, not just absorb. We’ve rounded up 30+ curated programs—some elite, some virtual, and some even free. 

“Research” doesn’t just mean lab coats and test tubes. In high school, it can be anything from building a climate data model to writing a white paper on food justice. It’s original inquiry—asking bold questions, designing solutions, analyzing trends. And it’s not just for STEM nerds—econ, psych, history, PoliSci all count.

Start early. Cold-email profs. Expect rejection—it means you’re aiming high. Track everything. It’ll all pay off in your apps and essays later.

The List: 30+ Research Opportunities for High School Students

Prestige Powerhouses (Brand-Name Recognition)

These are the programs that don’t need an intro at a dinner party. They’re the Rolexes of high school research—instantly recognizable, wildly competitive, and stacked with future game-changers.

1. Research Science Institute (RSI)

RSI is basically the Avengers initiative, but for teenage STEM prodigies. Hosted at MIT, this six-week summer research boot camp pairs you with actual scientists to do actual science. You’ll get tossed into the deep end of lab research—no floaties—and by the end, you’ll have produced work that could hold its own at a college-level symposium. It’s as real as it gets.

Pro Tip: Getting into RSI is like winning the STEM lottery. If you’re lucky enough to snag a spot, it’s a rocket booster for your resume and college apps. Think: instant credibility with any admissions officer who’s breathing.

• Age/Grade Eligibility: Current high school juniors
• Application Deadline: Mid-December
• Cost: Free (yep, you read that right)
• Location: In-person @ MIT, Cambridge, MA

2. MITES Summer

MITES is like academic CrossFit: intense, transformative, and way more fun than it sounds. Over six weeks, you’ll dive into rigorous STEM coursework, collaborate on hands-on projects, and get a backstage pass to MIT’s campus and faculty. It’s designed to support students from historically underrepresented backgrounds, and it delivers.

Pro Tip: This isn’t just about sharpening your math and science game. MITES is a community—and the network you build here could stick with you through college and beyond.

• Age/Grade Eligibility: High school juniors (U.S. citizens or permanent residents)
• Application Deadline: February 1
• Cost: Free (including food, housing, and vibes)
• Location: In-person @ MIT, Cambridge, MA

3. Simons Summer Research Program

Seven weeks. One mentor. Real-deal research. Hosted at Stony Brook University, Simons gives you the lab keys and says, “Go.” You’ll be embedded in active research teams—working shoulder-to-shoulder with faculty and grad students—and wrap the summer by presenting your findings at a legit research symposium.

Pro Tip: Simons is as close to a PhD experience as you can get in high school. If you’re planning to say “hello” to research in your college essays, this is how you make that intro sting.

• Age/Grade Eligibility: High school juniors, must be 16+
• Application Deadline: Early February
• Cost: Free (but you cover transportation + housing)
• Location: In-person @ Stony Brook University, NY

4. Clark Scholars Program – Texas Tech

Want research and a stipend? Enter: Clark Scholars. Only 12 students are selected each summer for this seven-week mega-mentorship experience across nearly every discipline—STEM, humanities, you name it. You’ll work closely with a faculty mentor, conduct original research, and live that undergrad grind early.

Pro Tip: The low admit rate here is no joke. This is for the kid who’s already read the journal articles, built the prototype, and is ready to sprint.

• Age/Grade Eligibility: Juniors + Seniors, must be 17+
• Application Deadline: Late February
• Cost: Free, with a $750 stipend (flex!)
• Location: In-person @ Texas Tech, Lubbock, TX

5. Garcia Summer Scholars Program

If polymer science and engineering makes your heart race, Garcia is your playground. Held at Stony Brook, this seven-week program immerses you in serious lab work. Think: full research projects, publication potential, and conference-level presentation skills—delivered before you can legally vote.

Pro Tip: It’s not cheap, but Garcia opens doors—especially if your endgame involves co-authoring a paper or presenting at a national conference before you’ve picked your prom outfit.

• Age/Grade Eligibility: 16+
• Application Deadline: March
• Cost: ~$3,700 (lab fee), plus housing + meals
• Location: In-person @ Stony Brook University, NY

Medical Research Opportunities

For those aiming to don the white coat and dive into the medical field, these programs offer a golden ticket to real-world research experience. They’re not just resume boosters; they’re transformative experiences that can shape your future in medicine.

6. Fred Hutch Summer High School Internship Program

Imagine spending your summer at a world-renowned cancer research center, not fetching coffee, but actively contributing to groundbreaking studies. Fred Hutch’s eight-week internship immerses rising seniors in laboratory techniques, research projects, and professional development workshops. It’s hands-on, it’s intense, and it’s as real as it gets.​

Pro Tip: This program is a launchpad for aspiring biomedical scientists, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. Securing a spot here not only elevates your college application but also embeds you in a network of professionals dedicated to curing cancer.​

• Age/Grade Eligibility: High school students entering their senior year.​
• Application Deadline: March 31st.​
• Cost: Free.​
• Location: In-person at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, Seattle, WA.​

7. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)

Stanford’s SIMR is the crème de la crème of medical research internships. Over eight weeks, you’ll be paired with a mentor in a Stanford lab, delving deep into biomedical research across various disciplines. From immunology to bioengineering, the spectrum is vast, and the experience is unparalleled.​

Pro Tip: With an acceptance rate rumored to be in the single digits, SIMR is as competitive as they come. A spot here signals to future admissions committees that you’re not just interested in medicine—you’re committed at the highest level.​

• Age/Grade Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors aged 16 and above.​
• Application Deadline: February 22nd.​
• Cost: $40 application fee; program participation is free.​
• Location: In-person at Stanford University, Stanford, CA.​

8. NIH High School Summer Internship Program (HS-SIP)

The National Institutes of Health offers this prestigious internship, placing students alongside leading scientists in biomedical research. Spanning eight weeks, interns engage in cutting-edge studies, contributing to projects that have real-world medical implications.​

Pro Tip: NIH is the epicenter of medical research in the U.S. An internship here isn’t just a learning experience; it’s a statement that you’re ready to play in the big leagues of biomedical science.​

• Age/Grade Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors aged 17 and above by June 15th.​
• Application Deadline: February 16th.​
• Cost: Free; participants receive a stipend.​
• Location: In-person at NIH campuses, primarily in Bethesda, MD.​

9. UCSF Summer Student Research Program (SSRP)

This one’s for the future physician-scientists who want a taste of the real thing—and aren’t afraid of a little intellectual heat. Hosted by UCSF, SSRP invites high school juniors and seniors from historically excluded and underrepresented backgrounds to spend the summer doing actual biomedical research with top faculty. It’s hands-on, mission-driven, and squarely aimed at leveling the playing field.

Pro Tip: Not only will you sharpen your research chops, but you’ll walk away with a seriously compelling college essay and a mentor or two in your corner. SSRP is about launching long-term trajectories, not just padding resumes.

• Age/Grade Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors (rising seniors preferred).
• Application Deadline: Typically early March.
• Cost: Free (includes a stipend).
• Location: In-person @ UCSF, San Francisco, CA.

10. CRISSP – Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute Summer Scholars Program

Ever wonder what it’s like to do pediatric medical research in one of the top children’s hospitals in the world? CRISSP lets you find out. Over ten weeks, you’ll work full-time in a CHOP research lab alongside professionals tackling real-world health challenges in kids—from rare diseases to cutting-edge gene therapies.

Pro Tip: This is the place for future pediatricians, child psychologists, or anyone whose interest in medicine has a human (and tiny) face. Bonus: you’ll gain elite-level exposure and get paid.

• Age/Grade Eligibility: Rising college freshmen (high school seniors who’ve graduated).
• Application Deadline: Typically in January.
• Cost: Free (includes a competitive stipend).
• Location: In-person @ Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), PA.

STEM & Engineering Focused

For those whose hearts race at the thought of coding algorithms, engineering the next big thing, or exploring the frontiers of space, these programs are your launchpad. They offer hands-on experiences that can catapult your understanding and passion for STEM to astronomical levels.

11. QuarkNet Summer Research Program

QuarkNet is where high school physics enthusiasts get to step into the shoes of particle physicists. This program partners students with mentors in cutting-edge physics research, allowing them to analyze real data from experiments at facilities like Fermilab and CERN. It’s not just about learning physics; it’s about doing physics.​

Pro Tip: Engaging with QuarkNet can provide a solid foundation in data analysis and research methodologies, making your transition to college-level physics smoother than a frictionless surface.​

• Age/Grade Eligibility: High school students; specific requirements may vary by center.​
• Application Deadline: Varies by location; check with your local QuarkNet center.​
• Cost: Free.​
• Location: Various centers nationwide.​

12. NASA High School Internships

Dreaming of contributing to space exploration? NASA’s internships place high school students alongside scientists and engineers, working on projects that are literally out of this world. Whether it’s engineering, computer science, or astrophysics, you’ll be part of missions that push the boundaries of human knowledge.​

Pro Tip: A stint at NASA isn’t just a resume booster; it’s a testament to your ability to operate at the highest levels of STEM research. Plus, networking with NASA professionals can open doors you didn’t even know existed.​

• Age/Grade Eligibility: High school students aged 16 and older with a minimum 3.0 GPA.​
• Application Deadline: Typically early February for summer sessions.​
• Cost: Paid internship; stipends vary.​
• Location: Various NASA centers nationwide.​

13. Yale Summer Science Research Institute (SSRI)

Yale’s SSRI connects high school students with Yale’s top-tier research labs for a seven-week deep dive into scientific investigation. From biology to engineering, you’ll be immersed in projects that challenge and expand your understanding of the scientific world.​

Pro Tip: Participating in SSRI not only enhances your research skills but also embeds you within Yale’s academic community—a priceless experience if Ivy League aspirations are on your radar.​

• Age/Grade Eligibility: High school juniors from the New Haven area.​
• Application Deadline: Varies; check the program’s website for details.​
• Cost: Free.​
• Location: In-person at Yale University, New Haven, CT.​

14. Polygence

Polygence is an online research program that pairs you with expert mentors to explore your STEM interests through personalized projects. Over 10 one-on-one sessions, you’ll develop a project that showcases your passion and can be a standout addition to your college applications.​

Pro Tip: Polygence offers flexibility and personalization that’s hard to find elsewhere. It’s perfect for self-driven students eager to delve deep into a topic of their choosing, with guidance from professionals in the field.​

• Age/Grade Eligibility: High school students.​
• Application Deadline: Rolling admissions; next deadline April 15th.​
• Cost: Paid program; financial aid available.​
• Location: Online.​

15. MIT Lincoln Laboratory Radar Introduction for Student Engineers (LLRISE)

Imagine spending two weeks at MIT, not just walking the halls, but actively building your own radar system. LLRISE is a free residential workshop where you’ll dive deep into the world of radar technology, guided by MIT scientists and engineers. From assembling hardware to understanding signal processing, this program is hands-on engineering at its finest.​

Pro Tip: LLRISE is highly competitive, with an acceptance rate around 5%. Securing a spot not only amplifies your engineering skills but also signals to top-tier colleges that you’re ready to tackle complex challenges head-on.​

• Age/Grade Eligibility: High school juniors (rising seniors); must be U.S. citizens.​
• Application Deadline: March 12, 2025, 10:00 PM EST.​
• Cost: Free; participants are responsible for transportation to and from MIT.​
• Location: In-person at MIT Lincoln Laboratory, Lexington, MA.

Free & Virtual Programs (High Accessibility)

Not all stellar research opportunities require a hefty price tag or a cross-country move. These programs offer accessible, high-quality experiences that can be tackled from the comfort of your own home—pajamas optional.​

16. Aspiring Scholars Directed Research Program (ASDRP)

ASDRP is a nonprofit research institution based in Fremont, California, offering high school students the chance to engage in original scientific research across various STEM fields. While traditionally in-person, ASDRP has adapted to include virtual participation, making it accessible to students beyond the Bay Area. Participants work under the mentorship of experienced researchers, contributing to ongoing projects and even co-authoring publications. ​

Pro Tip: ASDRP emphasizes inclusion, particularly for students underrepresented in STEM or facing socioeconomic challenges. This is more than a research stint; it’s a community committed to broadening access to scientific inquiry. 

• Age/Grade Eligibility: High school students entering 9th through 12th grade​.
• Application Deadline: Varies; check the official website for current dates​.
• Cost: Free​.
• Location: Primarily in-person in Fremont, CA, with some virtual options available.

17. The Lumiere Research Scholar Program

Founded by Harvard and Oxford researchers, Lumiere offers high school students a unique opportunity to work one-on-one with Ph.D. mentors from top universities. Over a 12-week period, students delve into an independent research project in their chosen field, culminating in a comprehensive research paper. The program spans various disciplines, including STEM fields like data science, engineering, and medicine.

Pro Tip: Lumiere is selective and rigorous, providing a taste of college-level research. Financial aid is available, making this elite experience more accessible to talented students from diverse backgrounds.

• Age/Grade Eligibility: High school students​.
• Application Deadline: Four cohorts throughout the year; next deadline is May 11, 2025​.
• Cost: Paid program with financial aid available​.
• Location: Online​.

18. Horizon Academic Research Program

Horizon offers trimester-long online research programs for high school students across various subjects, including data science, machine learning, biology, and more. Participants work closely with professors and Ph.D. scholars from institutions like Harvard, MIT, and Yale to produce a 20-page research paper, providing a solid foundation in academic research and writing.

Pro Tip: Horizon is ideal for students aiming to showcase their ability to handle college-level research, offering a flexible schedule that accommodates various time zones and commitments.​

• Age/Grade Eligibility: High school students​.
• Application Deadline: Rolling admissions​.
• Cost: Paid program; financial aid availability varies​.
• Location: Virtual.

19. JAX Summer Student Program (The Jackson Laboratory)

The Jackson Laboratory’s Summer Student Program offers a ten-week immersive experience in genetics and genomics research. High school seniors and undergraduate students work alongside JAX scientists on independent projects, gaining hands-on laboratory experience and contributing to cutting-edge research. 

Pro Tip: This program is highly competitive and provides a deep dive into mammalian genetics, making it a standout experience for those interested in biomedical research.​

• Age/Grade Eligibility: High school seniors and undergraduate students​.
• Application Deadline: Typically in February; check the official website for exact dates​.
• Cost: Paid fellowship; participants receive a stipend​.
• Location: In-person at Bar Harbor, ME, or Farmington, CT​.

20. SHTEM: Summer Internships for High Schoolers at Stanford University

Hosted by the Stanford Compression Forum, the SHTEM program immerses high school and early community college students in interdisciplinary research projects spanning science, humanities, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Over eight weeks, participants collaborate virtually with Stanford mentors, delving into areas like bioengineering, artificial intelligence, and environmental science. The program emphasizes the integration of humanities with STEM, fostering a holistic research approach.

Pro Tip: SHTEM is more than a research internship; it’s a gateway to understanding the confluence of diverse disciplines. Engaging in this program showcases your adaptability and commitment to interdisciplinary learning—traits highly valued in today’s academic landscape.​

• Age/Grade Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors; early community college students aged 17-21​.
• Application Deadline: Applications have been due in the past by March 1st.
• Cost: Free​.
• Location: Fully virtual.

University-Led Summer Research Programs

For high school students eager to immerse themselves in cutting-edge research within a university setting, these programs offer unparalleled opportunities. Engaging in such experiences not only enhances your scientific acumen but also provides a glimpse into collegiate-level research environments.​

21. University of California San Francisco – High School Intern Program

UCSF’s Science & Health Education Partnership (SEP) offers an eight-week paid summer internship where students are paired with UCSF scientist mentors to conduct original biomedical research projects. The program emphasizes authentic research experiences, allowing interns to develop a deep understanding of the scientific process. ​

Pro Tip: This program is tailored for students from San Francisco public and charter schools, aiming to foster local talent in biomedical sciences. Engaging in this internship not only bolsters your research skills but also connects you with a network of professionals in the field.​

• Age/Grade Eligibility: Rising high school seniors from SFUSD or SF charter schools.​
• Application Deadline: Typically in March; check the official website for exact dates.​
• Cost: Free; participants receive a stipend.​
• Location: In-person at UCSF, San Francisco, CA.​

22. University of Pennsylvania – Penn Summer Science Initiative (PSSI)

Hosted by Penn’s Laboratory for Research on the Structure of Matter (LRSM), PSSI is a free, four-week program introducing high school students to materials science and engineering. Participants engage in lectures, hands-on laboratory experiments, and field trips, providing a comprehensive overview of the field. ​

Pro Tip: PSSI offers a deep dive into materials science, making it ideal for students interested in engineering disciplines. The program’s hands-on approach ensures practical experience, enhancing both understanding and college applications.​

• Age/Grade Eligibility: High school students entering their junior or senior year from the greater Philadelphia region.​
• Application Deadline: Applications for 2025 are closed; 2026 applications open by November 1st.​
• Cost: Free.​
• Location: In-person at the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA.​

23. UChicago Research in the Biological Sciences (RIBS)

RIBS is a four-week intensive training program at the University of Chicago, designed to expose students to molecular, microbiological, and cell biological techniques used in research laboratories. Participants are immersed in the research experience, providing a taste of “life at the bench.”

Pro Tip: RIBS is renowned for its rigorous curriculum, making it a standout experience for students aiming for careers in biological research. The program’s intensity prepares participants for the demands of college-level science courses.​

• Age/Grade Eligibility: High school students who have completed their junior year.​
• Application Deadline: Varies; check the official website for details.​
• Cost: Tuition details available on the program’s website; financial aid may be available.​
• Location: In-person at the University of Chicago, Chicago, IL.​

24. Rockefeller University – Summer Science Research Program (SSRP)

SSRP is a full-time, seven-week guided research program where high school students work in teams under the mentorship of Rockefeller scientists. The program emphasizes authentic scientific inquiry, allowing participants to engage in real research projects. ​

Pro Tip: Located in the heart of New York City, SSRP offers exposure to a premier biomedical research environment. The collaborative team-based approach mirrors real-world scientific research settings.​

• Age/Grade Eligibility: Current high school juniors and seniors; must be at least 16 years old by program start.​
• Application Deadline: January 3, 2025.​
• Cost: Free; need-based stipends available.​
• Location: In-person at Rockefeller University, New York, NY.​

25. Boston University RISE Internship

The Research in Science & Engineering (RISE) program at Boston University offers a six-week experience where rising seniors conduct university laboratory research under the guidance of faculty mentors. Participants can choose between the Internship and Practicum tracks, both emphasizing hands-on research.

Pro Tip: RISE provides a comprehensive introduction to the research process, making it ideal for students considering STEM majors. The program’s structure allows for both independent and collaborative research experiences.​

• Age/Grade Eligibility: Rising high school seniors who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents.​
• Application Deadline: February 14, 2025.​
• Cost: Tuition details available on the program’s website; limited financial aid available.​
• Location: In-person at Boston University, Boston, MA.

Specialized/Niche Programs

For students seeking programs tailored to specific demographics or unique scientific interests, these specialized opportunities offer immersive experiences designed to foster growth, mentorship, and advanced knowledge in targeted fields.

26. Smith College Summer Science & Engineering Program (SSEP)

SSEP is a four-week residential program at Smith College, exclusively for young women with a strong interest in science and engineering. Participants engage in hands-on research with Smith faculty across disciplines such as biology, chemistry, computer science, engineering, and environmental science. The program emphasizes collaborative learning and provides a supportive environment for women in STEM. 

Pro Tip: Attending SSEP not only bolsters your scientific skills but also connects you with a network of like-minded women, fostering long-term mentorship and support in STEM fields.​

• Age/Grade Eligibility: High school students entering 9th–12th grade in the fall of 2025.​
• Application Deadline: Varies; check the official website for current dates.​
• Cost: Tuition details available on the program’s website; financial aid is available.​
• Location: In-person at Smith College, Northampton, MA.​

27. Summer Science Program (SSP)

Established in 1959, SSP offers rigorous six-week residential research experiences for highly motivated high school juniors. Students choose from disciplines such as astrophysics, biochemistry, genomics, and synthetic chemistry, conducting original research under the guidance of experienced faculty. The program operates on multiple university campuses and emphasizes collaboration and real-world scientific inquiry.

Pro Tip: SSP’s intensive curriculum and emphasis on teamwork prepare students for the rigors of college-level research, making it a standout experience for aspiring scientists.​

• Age/Grade Eligibility: High school juniors who have completed relevant coursework; must be at least 15 years old but not yet 19 during program operation.​
• Application Deadline: Applications open each winter; check the official website for specific dates.​
• Cost: Program fee details available on the website; need-based financial aid is offered.​
• Location: Various university campuses across the U.S.​

28. NYU GSTEM

NYU’s GSTEM is a six-week summer research program designed for high school students, particularly young women and those from historically underrepresented groups in STEM. Participants are placed in research labs across NYU, working on projects in fields ranging from computer science to engineering. The program aims to break down barriers and empower students through mentorship and hands-on experience. 

Pro Tip: GSTEM not only provides research experience but also focuses on building a supportive community, addressing the mentorship gap often faced by underrepresented groups in STEM.​

• Age/Grade Eligibility: High school students with a strong aptitude in STEM subjects.​
• Application Deadline: Varies; refer to the official website for current deadlines.​
• Cost: Tuition details are provided on the program’s website; financial aid is available.​
• Location: In-person at New York University, New York, NY.​

29. RISE Germany – Research Internships in Science and Engineering

Sponsored by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), RISE Germany offers summer research internships for undergraduate students from North America, the UK, and Ireland. Participants are matched with doctoral students in Germany, collaborating on research projects in science and engineering fields. The program includes a stipend to cover living expenses.

Pro Tip: RISE Germany provides a unique opportunity to gain international research experience, enhancing both your scientific skills and cultural competency—a valuable asset in today’s globalized research environment.​

• Age/Grade Eligibility: Undergraduate students in STEM fields; high school students are not eligible.​
• Application Deadline: Typically in December; consult the official website for exact dates.​
• Cost: Free; participants receive a monthly stipend.​
• Location: Various universities and research institutions across Germany.​

30. UCSD Research Experience for High School Students (REHS)

Hosted by the San Diego Supercomputer Center at UC San Diego, REHS is an eight-week summer program that integrates high school students into ongoing computational research projects. Participants work closely with mentors, gaining experience in data analysis, programming, and scientific research methodologies. 

Pro Tip: REHS offers a deep dive into computational sciences, making it ideal for students interested in fields like data science, bioinformatics, and computer engineering.​

• Age/Grade Eligibility: High school students; specific requirements may vary.​
• Application Deadline: Varies; check the official website for details.​
• Cost: Free.​
• Location: In-person at UC San Diego, La Jolla, CA.

Final Tips

Couldn’t snag a spot in a formal program? Welcome to Plan B—aka Beast Mode. Some of the most jaw-dropping college essays come from students who built something on their own.

Start by cold-emailing labs or professors whose work genuinely fascinates you. Keep it short, specific, and respectful. Mention what excites you about their research and how you’d love to contribute—even in a tiny way. Pro tip: attach a one-page “mini-resume” and suggest a brief Zoom to chat more.

No bites? No problem. Go rogue. Design your own project. Build a data model. Conduct a survey. Create a community solution. Publish your findings online. Turn YouTube tutorials and academic journals into your personal syllabus. Initiative and execution will always beat pedigree and passivity.

And to the perfectionists out there: You don’t need five research programs on your app. You just need one—or two—that align with your interests and push your intellectual boundaries. That’s what colleges are looking for: authenticity, depth, and follow-through.

Need help figuring out where to start? What to pitch? How to frame it for admissions?

Book a free consultation with Admissionado. We’ll help you work smarter, not just harder.