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15 Research Programs for Middle School Students in New York

If you are a middle school student interested in research, there’s a number of research programs, often hosted by universities, museums, and non-profit organizations, that you can consider. These programs offer the chance to gain hands-on experiences in various fields of study, including biology, physics, technology, and environmental science. As a participant, you will get to conduct experiments, work on projects, and go on field trips under the guidance of professionals and educators, this helping you develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. You will also have a better idea of what you want to pursue in the future and structure your extracurriculars in high school around that. It’s not always easy to find the program best suited for you, so to make things easier, we’ve put together a list of 15 top research programs for middle school students that you can consider!



1. Lumiere Junior Explorer Program

Subject areas: Multidisciplinary. Students can choose based on their field of interest 

Cost: $1,990

Program Dates: 8 weeks starting March 11 (Spring cohort) and June 3 (Summer cohort)

Application Deadline: May 12, 2024 (Summer cohort) | February 18, 2024 (Spring cohort)

Eligibility: Students grade 6-8 are eligible to apply


The Lumiere Junior Explorer Program is an 8-week program that allows you to work one-on-one with a mentor to explore your academic interests and build a project you are passionate about. The program mentors are scholars from top research universities such as Harvard, MIT,  Stanford, Yale, Duke and LSE. 


During weeks 1-4 of the program, you will explore four distinct topics within your selected track. In weeks 5 and 6, you will deep dive into one specific topic. Finally, weeks 7-8 are dedicated to project implementation, while you will receive guidance and support from your mentors as you bring your project to life. You can find the application form here.





2. Science of Smart Cities by NYU’s Tandon School of Engineering

Subject areas: Computer science, engineering, technology, sustainability, city planning
Location:
New York University, NYC

Cost: Free,

Program Dates: July 8, 2024 - August 2, 2024

Application Deadline: April 14, 2024

Eligibility: Students who are at least 12 years old by the start of the program, but not older than 14 on the day the program begins, can apply. Those applying must be NYC residents.


The Science of Smart Cities program offers students a unique opportunity to explore computer science, engineering and technology that enhance city sustainability and safety. This program is designed to provide middle school students with a comprehensive understanding of the concepts that underpin smart city technologies. Through the program, you will engage in a curriculum that combines interactive coursework, hands-on activities, demonstrations, and experiments, and site visits to explore various aspects of urban development, such as sustainability, transportation, and infrastructure. You will learn how technology can be applied to address urban challenges and improve the quality of life in cities. 


Guided by NYU School of Engineering students, you will create your own smart city models, integrating STEM concepts that you learned during the program. You will be expected to actively participate in group projects and use what you’ve learned to propose creative solutions to real-world urban issues. The program concludes with presentations to experts and the public, emphasizing real-world applications of your projects. During the final presentations, you are required to demonstrate how your project creatively provides a solution to a real-world challenge. The program also provides additional perks, such as the opportunity to network with peers and experts in the field, as well as access to guest lectures, workshops, and seminars. 





3. Veritas AI Programs 

Subject areas: Artificial Intelligence, machine learning, data science
Location
: Virtual

Cost: AI Trailblazers - $1,790 | AI Junior Fellowship - $2,900. Need based financial aid is available

Program Dates: AI Trailblazers - Runs for a total of 25 hours over 10 sessions | AI Junior Fellowship - 12 weeks 

Application Deadline: Spring cohort - February 25, 2024 | Summer cohort - March 24, 2024 (early admission). Apply here!

Eligibility: All high school students in grades 6-8


Veritas AI, founded and run by Harvard graduate students, offers virtual AI programs for middle and high school students. Middle school students can pick from two options -  the AI Trailblazers bootcamp and the AI Junior Fellowship. During the AI Trailblazers program, you will learn the fundamentals of artificial intelligence and machine learning, along with the basics of Python. You'll work on hands-on, real-world AI projects in areas like medicine, finance, autonomous vehicles, and more under the guidance of mentors from top universities like Harvard, Stanford, MIT, and more! This is best suited for students who are beginners. 


If you have already gone through the bootcamp or have some experience with Python, the AI Junior Fellowship is a good option for you. You get to work 1-1 with a mentor to build out your own project or research paper over 12 weeks. This is a great way to work with AI at the intersection of various topics and showcase your passion. 





4. NYU’s Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP)

Subject areas: STEM subjects
Location:
New York University, NYC

Cost: $350

Program Dates: July 5, 2024 - August 4, 2024

Application Deadline: March 24, 2024

Eligibility: Students who are New York State residents, have an 80 average in Math, Science, and English, meet New York state requirements, meet state-determined economic criteria listed on the eligibility section of the website, are middle or high school students in grades 7-12, can apply.


The NYU Science and Technology Entry Program (STEP) is an initiative designed to empower underserved and historically underrepresented students with a strong foundation in STEM fields. The program is hosted by New York University and offers a curriculum that encompasses interactive coursework, hands-on projects, and mentorship. Through STEP, you will gain a deep understanding of STEM subjects, and cultivate critical thinking and problem-solving skills. You will be required to actively participate in classroom activities, collaborate on group projects, and engage in hands-on experiments. 


During the program, students also have access to networking opportunities, where they can connect with peers and professionals in STEM fields, as well as attend guest lectures and workshops to gain insights from experts. It is important to note that the program can be academically demanding, and students should be prepared for the rigors of STEM coursework. That being said, for underrepresented students seeking to enhance their STEM knowledge, the NYU Science and Technology Entry Program offers an invaluable opportunity to excel in these fields and prepare you for future academic and professional success.





5. Sounds of New York City (SONYC) at NYU

Subject areas: STEM fields, sound technology, engineering, computer science
Location
: New York University, NYC

Cost: Fully funded (no cost).

Program Dates: July 8, 2024 - August 4, 2024 (Orientation will be held virtually on June 28) 

Application Deadline: April 14, 2024

Eligibility: Students who live in New York City and will be 12 years old by the start of the program, but not older than 14 on the day the program begins, can apply. 

The SONYC program is an innovative platform designed to encourage students to pursue their passion for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Through a dynamic curriculum crafted to dive into the realms of engineering, physical and computer sciences, as well as natural phenomena such as waves and sound, SONYC fosters a profound understanding and appreciation for these disciplines.

This program is focused on active engagement and exploration, allowing you to explore research on intricate workings of microcontrollers, sensors, and various hardware components, unravel the mysteries of circuitry, electronics, and coding, and gain invaluable insights into how scientists and engineers apply fundamental principles to tackle real-world challenges. To apply, you need to submit the online application which includes questions about your personal and academic history and two short essay responses. Find the application link here. 

6. Stanford Middle School Scholars Program 

Subject areas: STEM fields
Location:
Virtual

Cost: Free

Program Dates: July 8 - 26 (Summer course) and August 26, 2024 - December 13 2024 (Fall semester meetings)

Application Deadline: March 29, 2024

Eligibility: Low-income students currently in grades 6 or 7 who reside in and attend school in the United States.


The Stanford Middle School Scholars Program (SMSSP) is a tuition-free and highly enriching program to check out if you’re keen to further your interest in STEM subjects. The program kicks off with a three-week intensive summer course in July, followed by weekly meetings from mid-August through December. These sessions include live, instructor-led discussions and workshops on topics such as high school preparation, academic writing, and math enrichment. The virtual classroom experience fosters real-time interactions with instructors and peers across the United States. With 65% of instructors holding PhD's in their fields, you're guided by experts committed to helping you achieve your full academic potential. The program also emphasizes building a close-knit community with approximately 12 students per session.





7. Lavner Technology and STEM Camps

Subject areas: STEM fields
Location
: Virtual

Cost: Most courses are priced at $399, with a few courses at $449 or $549.

Program Dates: Weekly camps options available between June 3, 2024 and August 30, 2024

Application Deadline: Enrollment is open until the start of each camp session.

Eligibility: Students aged 6-14 can participate


Lavner Camps' Virtual Tech and STEM programs are a great way for you to dive into the technology world. Camp Tech Revolution Online was developed by a leadership team with educational backgrounds from the University of Pennsylvania, The Wharton School, Columbia University, Cornell University, Brandeis University, UCLA Graduate School of Educational Leadership, Harvard Graduate School of Education, and more. With a staff to camper ratio of approximately 1:4 to 1:8, and live online instruction provided by top-notch instructors, Camp Tech Revolution Online is a great STEM camp experience for campers ages 6 to 14. They offer over 35 camps including Robotics, Coding, Game Design, Minecraft, Roblox, Content Creation for YouTube, Digital Art, Spy Tech, STEM & Medicine, and more so you will have many avenues to explore your STEM interests. The camps foster an experiential, hands-on learning, a collaborative atmosphere, with options to explore some of the most cutting-edge topics in STEM. The curricula is student-focused for every level, whether you’re a beginner or advanced camper, you’ll learn new skills each week!






8. Stony Brook University Science Exploration Program

Subject areas: STEM subjects
Location:
Stony Brook University, Long Island, NYC

Cost: $650

Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on first-come, first-serve basis

Program Dates: July 15 - 25, 2024

Eligibility: Students entering grades 7-9 in September 2024 can apply


The Stony Brook University Science Exploration Program is a great opportunity if you’re interested in science and research. Tailored for students entering the grades 7-9, these academic programs will complement your science curriculum at school and challenge you to think, research, and experiment. Each program is laboratory-based, incorporating reading, computer searching, writing, and group work, designed for students who are inquisitive and ready to work hard to learn something new. Seventh graders will hone their laboratory skills through experiments in physics, chemistry, microbiology, and ecology. Eighth graders will delve into biology, chemistry, biotechnology, and environmental chemistry, using case studies to explore complex concepts such as Cholera and Bioremediation, all within the framework of homeostasis and environmental interactions. Ninth graders will focus on biology and research skills, working in groups to investigate botany, microbiology, genetics, and molecular biology





9. Stony Brook University Middle School Math Program

Subject areas: Mathematics
Location:
Stony Brook University, Long Island, NYC

Cost: $350

Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on first-come, first-serve basis

Program Dates: July 29, 2024 - August 1, 2024

Eligibility: Students entering grades 6-9 in September 2024 can apply


The Stony Brook University Middle School Math Program offers an opportunity for students to explore mathematics through engaging, hands-on activities that challenge you to apply math concepts to real-world problems. For 6th and 7th graders, the program focuses on building confidence and enhancing math skills through fun yet challenging activities, covering topics such as Introduction to Algebra, Fun with Geometry, Fluency and Operations with Rational Numbers, Real World Statistics, and an Introduction to Probability


For students entering 8th and 9th grades, the program shifts its focus towards preparing them for high school mathematics, with a special emphasis on the study of functions, including linear, quadratic, and exponential functions. Through engaging hands-on activities, students will delve deeper into these concepts, building a solid foundation for the critical skills needed in high school math such as factoring and operations with real numbers. This advanced program aims to foster a deeper understanding of the core concepts of high school Algebra and is ideally suited for students poised to enter a high school level Algebra class in 8th grade or those who have completed Algebra by the end of 8th grade.





10. Columbia State Pre-College Enrichment Program (S-PREP)

Subject areas: STEM subjects
Location:
Columbia University, NYC

Cost: Free

Application Deadline: May 15, 2024

Program Dates: July 8, 2024 - August 2, 2024

Eligibility: Students in grades 7-12 who have maintained an 80% grade average, particularly in math and science, can apply


The State Pre-College Enrichment Program (S-PREP), offered by the Office of Student Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging at Columbia University, also known as Columbia STEP, is a comprehensive, free program aimed at 7th through 12th graders who dream of careers in medicine or STEM fields. Specifically designed to support historically underrepresented and economically disadvantaged students, S-PREP's mission is to enhance college readiness and boost the participation rates of these groups in mathematics, science, technology, health-related fields, and licensed professions. This initiative, backed by the New York State Education Department's Science & Technology Entry Program (STEP), provides a rich variety of enrichment courses to pave the way for academic success in crucial subjects such as Anatomy, Biochemistry, Chemistry, and more, alongside advanced courses like Organic Chemistry, Brain & Cognitive Science, and various levels of mathematics from Algebra to Calculus




11. NYU Math Program for Young Minds 

Subject areas: Mathematics

Location: Virtual

Cost: $750

Application Deadline: This information is not available at the moment.

Program Dates: February 3 , 2024 - May 4, 2024

Eligibility: Middle school students currently enrolled in the 7th or 8th grade who have an interest in mathematics and are eager to learn advanced mathematical ideas.


NYU's Math Program for Young Minds is a great opportunity for you if you are a middle school student in grades 7-8 who is passionate about exploring mathematics beyond their school curriculum. This 13-week online program offers a mathematically stimulating environment, encouraging participants to delve into advanced mathematical topics that aren’t typically covered in middle school. Through a series of online classes, students are introduced to college-level math concepts, including an Introduction to Number Theory and Introduction to Topology and Geometry, which aim to enhance their problem-solving skills and abstract reasoning abilities. The program is structured to include weekly meetings with faculty and teaching assistants, ensuring that all sessions are highly interactive. Students will engage in collaborative group work and problem-solving activities, making the learning experience both engaging and enriching. 





12. National Computer Camp

Subject area: Computer science
Location
: Online

Cost: $595 per week

Application deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis

Program dates: June 24 - 28, 2024

Eligibility: Students in grades 6-8 are eligible to participate


The National Computer Camp (NCC) is America’s oldest computer camp, being conducted since 1977. At NCC, you can choose to attend for one week or engage in multi-week sessions with the curriculum designed to enhance your computer literacy from any level. You will have access to an extensive list of courses and activities. This includes diving into programming languages such as Python, JavaScript, C++, and Java, exploring web development through CSS, Web Design, and HTML 5, and enhancing your graphics skills with OpenGL, Flash–Animation, and Photoshop. If you’re interested in game design, you can start from 2D Game Design to advanced 3D Game Design, including hands-on experiences with Arduino Computer Lab and Minecraft Modding. Additionally, unique offerings like 3D Printing, Cryptography, and even flying the NCC Drone are available to you.




13. UC Berkeley Coding Academy’s Data Science to AI

Subject areas: Data science, machine learning, AI

Location: Online

Cost: $2,495. Limited scholarships are available.

Application Deadline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis

Program Dates: June 17 - 28, 2024 | July 8 - 12, 2024

Eligibility: Students aged 12-18 are eligible to apply


If you are a middle school student who wants to explore how data is used in various areas, from social media trends to environmental changes, the UC Berkeley Coding Academy is a good option for you. With tools like numpy, pandas, matplotlib, seaborn, and sklearn, you'll get hands-on experience analyzing big data and constructing machine learning models, all while mastering the Python code that powers AI


Students work on projects that culminate in a presentation, backed by blockchain-authenticated certificates, giving you a tangible link to your achievements. You will also gain lifetime access to an extensive suite of resources, including over 100 4K Data Science videos, Colab Notebooks, slides, and all materials generated for the class. 






14. Center for Talented Youth’s Programs

Subject areas: Multidisciplinary, wide range of courses for students to choose from
Location:
Virtual

Cost: Between $955 and $2,130, depending on the course. Limited financial aid is available.

Application Deadline: January 9, 2024 (You can apply anytime for individually paced courses)

Program Dates: Spring and summer cohorts are available, individually paced courses run through the whole year

Eligibility: Open to students from grades 2 to 12, changing with each course


The CTY is a non-profit organization that offers educational programs for students to explore advanced and challenging subjects in-depth. The online programs come in three formats — session-based courses with a balance of structure and flexibility, individually paced courses where you work at your own pace, and live sessions that include synchronous, real-time classes. You can choose from a number of different STEM courses. Each course usually involves hands-on assignments or projects that will help hone your research skills and creativity.





15. Create and Learn Data Science with Python, Pandas, and ChatGPT Class

Subject areas: Computer science, data science
Location:
Online

Cost: $262.80 for six sessions

Application Deadline: No deadline

Program Dates: 6 weeks, approximately 1 hour per week

Eligibility: All middle school students are eligible. 


Create and Learn Data Science with Python, Pandas, and ChatGPT Class is a live online class, designed for small groups of 2-3 students and lasting 75 minutes per session. Students begin with an introduction to data science, exploring the purpose and features of the powerful Pandas library. You'll delve into essential techniques for data cleaning, data processing, and data analytics, setting a strong foundation for your journey in data science.


You will also learn how to leverage ChatGPT for developing higher quality code and expanding your learning beyond the classroom. This program opens up new avenues for exploration and enhances your coding skills in practical, real-world applications. You will leave with a capstone project where you'll apply everything you've learned to your own dataset.