25 Selective Research Opportunities for High School Students

If you are a high school student, research programs offer opportunities to gain practical skills, industry exposure, and mentorship. These programs provide hands-on experience, develop critical thinking, and facilitate networking with experts. Additionally, participating in such programs enhances college applications by showcasing initiative and dedication to academic growth.

Numerous prestigious programs from top institutions and organizations are available each year, offering selective and enriching experiences. We've made a list of 25 selective research opportunities for high school students, considering factors like acceptance rates, hosting organizations, and overall prestige. 

1. Stanford University’s Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)

Location: Stanford University, Stanford, CA

Cost/Stipend: $40 application fee. Participants receive a minimum stipend of $500, with larger need-based grants available

Eligibility: Open to U.S. high school juniors and seniors aged 16 and older. Preference is given to applicants from the Bay Area.

Application Deadline: February 22

Program Dates: June 9 – July 31

Acceptance Rate: 50 students per year

The Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR) is an 8-week experience designed for high school students interested in biomedical science. You will work with mentors, including Stanford graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, on cutting-edge research projects in areas like cancer biology, immunology, and neurobiology.

The program starts with a detailed orientation, followed by two weeks of morning lectures and lab sessions. The remaining weeks focus on hands-on research, collaborative discussions, and preparation for the capstone event: a research poster presentation. During this event, you will present your work to peers, mentors, and the Stanford community.

2. MIT’s Research Science Institute (RSI)

Location: Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, MA

Cost: No cost; stipend provided

Eligibility: Rising high school seniors. Open to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, and international students. High standardized test scores are recommended, including a PSAT math score of 740+ or ACT math score of 33+.

Application Deadline: December 11

Program Dates: June 22 – August 2

Acceptance Rate: Less than 5%

The Research Science Institute (RSI) at MIT is a prestigious six-week program that gathers 80 of the most talented high school juniors from around the world. Sponsored by the Center for Excellence in Education (CEE), RSI offers a fully-funded research experience in STEM fields, making it one of the most selective opportunities with an acceptance rate under 5%.

The program begins with a week of advanced STEM classes taught by expert faculty, covering both foundational and cutting-edge topics. You will conduct your own independent research projects in fields like engineering, computer science, and mathematics. You will also be paired with a mentor, typically a leading scientist or researcher, ensuring a personalized and enriching educational experience. RSI concludes with formal research presentations, where you will present your work through professional-style reports and oral presentations. 

3. Young Scientist Program: Summer Focus at Washington University

Location: Washington University, St. Louis, MO

Stipend: $4,500

Eligibility: Rising high school seniors from the Greater St. Louis area, with preference for students from under-resourced schools or underrepresented groups in STEM.

Application Deadline: January 27

Program Dates: June 2 – July 25

Acceptance Rate: Low, with only 15-18 students selected per cohort

The Young Scientist Program: Summer Focus at Washington University is an 8-week initiative aimed at empowering students from historically underrepresented backgrounds in STEM. Open to high school seniors from the Greater St. Louis area, the program offers research experience with hands-on projects, mentorship, and academic enrichment.

You will be paired with mentors, typically graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, or research staff who will guide you through biomedical research projects. In addition to lab work, you will receive personalized tutoring on complex scientific concepts. 

The curriculum also includes coursework on science communication and college readiness. The program requires a 40-hour weekly commitment and culminates in a final research symposium, where you will present your findings to peers, mentors, and members of the research community.

4. Simons Summer Research Program at Stony Brook University

Location: Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY

Cost/Stipend: Free; optional $2360.25 for accommodation and meals. A stipend may be provided at the program’s conclusion.

Eligibility: High school juniors aged 16+ who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents.

Application Deadline: February 7

Program Dates: June 30 – August 8

Acceptance Rate: ~8%. About 40 students are selected as Simons Fellows each year out of ~500 applicants

The Simons Summer Research Program offers high school juniors the opportunity to conduct advanced STEM research at Stony Brook University. You will work with experienced mentors in fields such as biochemistry, chemistry, computer science, physics, and neurobiology.

During the application process, you can select your top three mentor preferences, ensuring alignment with your research interests.

Throughout the six-week program, you will conduct hands-on research and master essential laboratory and computational techniques. Weekly faculty talks, workshops, and campus tours enrich the learning experience. The program concludes with a final research symposium. 

5. Summer Science Research Program (SSRP) at Rockefeller University

Location: Rockefeller University, New York, NY

Cost: Free; travel expenses are covered, and need-based stipends may be available.

Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors who are at least 16 years old at the start of the program.

Application Deadline: January 3

Program Dates: June 23 – August 7

Acceptance Rate: Approximately 32 students selected per cohort.

The Summer Science Research Program (SSRP) at Rockefeller University provides an opportunity for high school students to engage in advanced biomedical research. You will work closely with mentors on specialized projects, gaining hands-on experience in cutting-edge scientific inquiry. The program also includes elective science courses, guest lectures, and social events, enhancing the overall educational experience.

Throughout the 8-week program, you will develop critical laboratory skills, participate in scientific discussions, and collaborate with peers. The program culminates in a formal symposium, where you will present your research findings to the university community.

6. Anson L. Clark Scholars Program

Location: Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX

Cost: Free; stipend of $750 provided

Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents. Applicants must be at least 17 years old by the program start date.

Application Deadline: February 24

Program Dates: June 22 – August 7

Acceptance Rate: Only 12 students are selected each year.

The Anson L. Clark Scholars Program is a seven-week summer research experience designed for highly motivated high school juniors and seniors. This program offers the opportunity to work closely with Texas Tech University faculty on research projects in diverse fields, including cell and molecular biology, chemistry, computer science, economics, engineering, and history.

You will conduct hands-on research, gaining practical experience while developing critical thinking and analytical skills. The program includes academic seminars, professional development workshops, and networking opportunities with leading experts in various disciplines. 

To apply, you must complete an online application, submit short essays, provide high school transcripts, and include test scores (at least the PSAT if no others are available). Three recommendations are required, with at least two from teachers, and you have to list your top five extracurricular activities.

7. Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience (MPFI) Summer Research Internship

Location: MPFI campus in Jupiter, FL

Cost: $13 per hour.

Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors aged 16+ residing in Palm Beach or Martin County with U.S. work authorization.

Application Deadline: March 4

Program Dates: June 16 – July 25 

Acceptance Rate: Highly competitive, with less than 10% acceptance.

The Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience (MPFI) Summer Research Internship is a six-week program that allows high school students to explore complex brain structures and functions through advanced research methods. You will work alongside leading neuroscientists, gaining hands-on experience with state-of-the-art imaging technologies and methodologies.

You can choose from three focus areas: neuroscience, scientific programming, or mechanical engineering. The internship includes a 40-hour weekly commitment, providing a comprehensive understanding of research processes and techniques. The program culminates in a final scientific presentation, where you will present your findings through formal reports and oral presentations. This experience enhances scientific communication skills and offers networking opportunities with top researchers in neuroscience.

8. Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Sciences (JHIBS)

Location: Johns Hopkins Department of Medicine, Baltimore, MD / Virtual

Cost: Free; In-person participants receive hourly wages and transportation support. Virtual interns receive a $500 stipend.

Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors. In-person applicants must attend a Baltimore-area high school.

Application Deadline: March 1 

Program Dates:

• In-person: June – August (8 weeks)

• Virtual: July – August (5 weeks)

Acceptance Rate: 5–6 students per cohort.

The Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Sciences (JHIBS) is a prestigious summer research program that promotes diversity in neuroscience by providing high school students with hands-on research experience. You will interact with neuroscientists, conduct laboratory research, attend educational seminars, and participate in professional development activities.

The program is offered in both in-person and virtual formats, ensuring accessibility and flexibility for students. Guided research projects, scientific discussions, and career exploration activities are integral parts of the curriculum, promoting both academic and personal growth. The program concludes with a final presentation, where you will present your research findings through oral or poster presentations.

9. Student Research Internship Programs at Scripps Research Translational Institute (SRTI)

Location: Scripps Research Institute, La Jolla, CA; Limited housing assistance is available.

Stipend:

• Program I: Funding details pending.

• Program II: Includes a stipend; travel and housing expenses are covered.

Eligibility: Highly motivated high school students aged 16 or older by the start date.

Application Deadlines:

• Program I: March 31

• Program II: January 26

Program Dates:

• Program I: June 2 – August 8 or June 16 – August 22 

• Program II: May 19 – July 28

Acceptance Rate: Highly competitive, with only 40 spots for high school, undergraduate, graduate, and professional applicants.

The Scripps Research Translational Institute (SRTI) offers two prestigious summer internship programs: Program I focuses on translational science, while Program II is centered around precision medicine. Both programs provide students with the opportunity to explore advanced research topics such as digital health, clinical genomics, community engagement, and the processes driving translational research.

You will receive specialized training in designing and analyzing genomic studies and gain insights into clinical trial development, from conception to analysis. Each intern is paired with a primary mentor who offers personalized guidance and support throughout the program. The experience culminates in a final presentation, where you will present the research findings to peers, mentors, and the Scripps community.

10. National Institutes of Health (NIH) High School Scientific Training and Enrichment Program (HiSTEP)

Location: NIH Main Campus, Bethesda, MD

Stipend:

• $2,530 for current high school students

• $2,840 for high school graduates

Eligibility: High school juniors, seniors, or recent graduates who are at least 17 years old by June 15. Additional criteria apply for HiSTEP and HiSTEP 2.0.

Application Deadline: January 8

Program Dates: July 7 – August 7

Acceptance Rate: Less than 7%

The High School Scientific Training and Enrichment Program (HiSTEP) at the National Institutes of Health is a highly selective initiative designed to promote diversity in STEM fields. It targets underrepresented high school students, particularly rising 12th graders from schools where at least 30% of students qualify for the Federal Free and Reduced Lunch Program.

HiSTEP provides a comprehensive introduction to scientific research and professional development. You will participate in research group visits, networking events, and collaborative projects while exploring careers in STEM-M fields (science, technology, engineering, math, and medical-related fields). The program emphasizes career readiness and personal development through leadership training, college application guidance, and wellness initiatives. 

11. Monell Science Apprenticeship Program (MSAP)

Location: Monell Chemical Senses Center, Philadelphia, PA

Stipend: Participants are paid a weekly salary (exact stipend varies by year)

Eligibility: High school students from the Greater Philadelphia area, including Camden, NJ.

Application Deadline: December 31

Program Dates: June 23 – August 15

Acceptance Rate: Highly competitive,18 - 24 students annually from about 200 applicants.

The Monell Science Apprenticeship Program (MSAP) offers high school students the opportunity to explore biomedicine and medical research in a multidisciplinary environment. During this eight-week program, you will work alongside scientists on research projects, developing essential laboratory skills and gaining firsthand experience in scientific inquiry.

The program combines hands-on laboratory work with educational seminars, including lectures on advanced scientific topics, training in scientific communication, and discussions on ethics in human and animal research. MSAP culminates in a public conference, where you will present your research findings to Monell staff, peers, and family. With strong mentorship and support, the program sees a 20–30% return rate from previous participants. 

12. Project Success by Harvard Medical School

Location: Harvard Medical School and affiliated hospitals, Boston, MA​

Stipend: Provided; exact amount varies by research placement

Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors from Boston and Cambridge who are at least 16 years old and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.7. Preference is given to students underrepresented in medicine or those facing socioeconomic disadvantages.

Application Deadline: February 3

Program Dates: June 30 – August 15

Acceptance Rate: Roughly 10% or less. Project Success usually selects about 20–25 students from the Boston/Cambridge area.

Project Success at Harvard Medical School is a six-week, paid research internship designed to inspire high school students in the Boston and Cambridge areas to pursue careers in biomedical science. During the program, you will be placed in a research lab at Harvard Medical School or an affiliated institution, working under the guidance of expert mentors, including physicians and biomedical researchers.

The program also features academic seminars, professional development workshops, and special events designed to enhance writing, speaking, and computer skills. In addition to lab work, you will attend seminars led by leading researchers and physicians, visit hospitals and biotech companies, and participate in career counseling sessions. With a highly selective acceptance rate, Project Success is committed to promoting diversity in medicine and providing underrepresented students with access to top-tier research opportunities.

13. Northeastern University’s Young Scholars Program

Location: Northeastern University, Boston, MA

Cost: Free

Eligibility:

• Permanent Massachusetts residents (must live and attend school in MA year-round)

• Current juniors entering 12th grade in the fall

• U.S. citizens or permanent residents

Application Deadline: February 20

Program Dates: June 23 – July 31

Acceptance Rate: Moderate intake but with an intensive selection process.

The Young Scholars Program at Northeastern University provides high school students with the opportunity to explore advanced research in the colleges of engineering, science, and health sciences. This six-week program involves working closely with professors and graduate students in active research labs and contributing to ongoing research projects.

You will gain hands-on experience in robotics, chemical analysis, and microwave materials. The program also includes the “Introduction to Engineering” seminar series, which covers a wide range of engineering disciplines and emerging technologies. Field trips, career counseling sessions, and networking opportunities are integral to the curriculum, providing you with a comprehensive and enriching summer experience.

14. Johns Hopkins’ Biophysics Research for Baltimore Teens (BRBT)

Location: Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD

Stipend: $15 per hour

Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors residing in Baltimore City who have completed chemistry coursework by the summer. Biology and physics coursework is recommended.

Application Deadline: February 28

Program Dates: July 8 – August 8

Acceptance Rate: BRBT typically accepts around 10–12 students per summer

The Biophysics Research for Baltimore Teens (BRBT) program at Johns Hopkins University is a paid summer internship designed to engage high school students from Baltimore City in the exciting field of biophysics and biomedical research. You will learn advanced techniques in microbiology, DNA manipulation, and protein engineering, assisting with experiments and preparing materials for biophysical studies. The program emphasizes practical lab skills and scientific inquiry, offering a unique opportunity to explore complex biological systems.

Interacting with graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and faculty, you will gain insights into academic and professional research environments. The program also includes career exploration activities, which help you assess your interest in pursuing careers in biophysics, biomedical research, or related STEM fields. With a moderate acceptance rate, BRBT provides a supportive and enriching platform for young scientists to develop foundational research skills.

15. NYU’s Applied Research Innovations in Science and Engineering (ARISE) Program

Location: New York University, New York, NY

Cost: No cost; participants receive a $1000 stipend after completing the project

Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors residing in New York City.

Application Deadline: February 21

Program Dates: June 2 – August 18

Acceptance Rate: ~15%. ARISE typically takes about 50–60 students out of ~300–400 applicants citywide.

NYU’s Applied Research Innovations in Science and Engineering (ARISE) is a highly selective seven-week research experience for New York City high school students entering 11th or 12th grade. The program begins with two weeks of preparatory workshops, providing foundational knowledge in research methodologies and advanced scientific concepts. You will participate in five weeks of hands-on laboratory work, conducting research under the mentorship of experienced NYU faculty.

ARISE emphasizes professional development, offering research methods training, panel discussions, and workshops to help you develop both technical skills and soft skills, such as communication and collaboration. The program culminates in a final presentation, where you will present your research findings to faculty, peers, and mentors.

16. UCSD’s Research Experience for High School Students

Location: University of California, San Diego, CA + Virtual

Cost:

• Program with research project: $1,500

• Program without research project: Free

Eligibility: Rising 10th graders. While the program primarily serves students from San Diego County, applications are also accepted from students outside the area with summer housing accommodations.

Application Deadline: March 15

Program Dates: June 16 – August 8 

Acceptance Rate: Moderate; exact numbers not publicly disclosed

The University of California, San Diego (UCSD), in collaboration with the San Diego Supercomputer Center, offers an immersive 8-week research program focused on advanced topics in computer science and artificial intelligence. This program aims to equip you with the tools and mentorship needed to tackle complex research questions while working closely with UCSD faculty mentors.

You will conduct hands-on research, designing and executing projects aligned with your interests in computer science, data science, or AI. You will also gain critical skills such as formulating hypotheses, conducting computational experiments, and analyzing data. The program bridges theoretical knowledge with practical application, offering a deeper understanding of computer science concepts and real-world challenges. Weekly workshops, faculty lectures, and peer collaboration further enrich the educational experience.

17. Stanford STaRS Internship Program

Location: Stanford, CA

Cost: Free

Eligibility: High school students aged 16 or older

Application Deadline: Typically in November each year

Program Dates: June 23 – August 8

Acceptance Rate: Highly selective, with approximately 20 students chosen per cohort.

The Stanford Science, Technology, and Reconstructive Surgery (STaRS) Internship Program offers high school students an opportunity to explore the intersection of biotechnology and medical innovation. Focusing on reconstructive surgery, this program emphasizes the role of advanced biotechnology in surgical techniques and patient care.

As a STaRS intern, you will work alongside leading surgeons and researchers, gaining hands-on experience with medical tools and innovative surgical methods. The curriculum covers advanced topics such as tissue engineering, regenerative medicine, and medical device innovation, offering a comprehensive understanding of biotechnology applications in healthcare. In addition to laboratory work, you will participate in educational seminars, hands-on workshops, and interactive activities that enhance your knowledge of biomedical engineering and reconstructive surgery. 

18. University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center High School Summer Program

Location: MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, TX

Stipend: $6,800

Eligibility: Texas high school seniors aged 18 or older by the start date

Application Deadline: January 15

Program Dates: June 2 – August 8 

Acceptance Rate: Highly selective, with only 12 students chosen annually.

The MD Anderson Cancer Center High School Summer Program offers Texas high school seniors a 10-week internship designed for students interested in pursuing careers in allied health fields, including diagnostic, technical, and supportive healthcare services. You will be paired with MD Anderson faculty mentors, including department heads and biomedical researchers, who guide you through dedicated research projects. 

You will gain hands-on experience in biomedical research, contributing to ongoing cancer studies and exploring diagnostic and therapeutic technologies. The program also includes faculty-led seminars, interactive activities, and collaborative projects that deepen your understanding of oncology, biomedical research, and healthcare practices. The experience culminates in a celebratory luncheon, where you will present your research findings to faculty, peers, and invited guests. 

19. High School Research Academy (HSRA) Summer Program

Location: University of Texas at Austin, TX (non-residential)

Cost: Not specified, but need-based scholarships are available that include a stipend and free tuition to HSRA.

Eligibility: High school students interested in STEM fields who are 15 years or older by June 1.

Application Deadline: March 23

Program Dates: June 9 – July 16

Acceptance Rate: Moderate; exact numbers not publicly disclosed

The High School Research Academy (HSRA) offers an immersive, five-week summer research experience at the University of Texas at Austin. This interdisciplinary program will place you in active College of Natural Sciences (CNS) labs, providing an opportunity to conduct research in fields such as biochemistry, biology, neuroscience, genetics, genome engineering, data analytics, environmental science, and more.

The program also offers NSC309 UT extension course credit, enhancing your academic portfolios. In addition to lab work, you will attend weekly seminars hosted by UT guest speakers, covering emerging topics in STEM and professional development. You will also design and present a research poster at the HSRA Research Symposium, gaining valuable experience in scientific communication and public speaking.

20. Genomics Research Internship Program for High School Students (GRIPS)

Location: Stanford University, Stanford, CA

Cost: Free to participate; need-based scholarships are available.

Eligibility: High school students who are residents of Alameda, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, and Santa Cruz counties, 16 or older by the start of the internship. Should have an unweighted GPA of at least 3.0 with some prior knowledge of biology, chemistry, or computer programming (via coursework or extracurriculars). Students from under-resourced high schools are strongly encouraged to apply.

Application Deadline: February 28

Program Dates: June 16 – August 7

Acceptance Rate: Low; exact numbers not publicly disclosed

The Genomics Research Internship Program for High School Students (GRIPS) is an eight-week, research-intensive experience at Stanford University, designed to engage students in cutting-edge genomics research. You will work with lab scientists, gaining hands-on experience in advanced research methodologies and techniques.

The program emphasizes practical laboratory skills and scientific inquiry, allowing you to conduct genomics research in a Stanford lab. Weekly cohort sessions, career panels, and seminars on biomedical research enrich the learning experience and provide valuable insights into academic and career paths in genomics and bioinformatics. You will need to check in regularly with your lab mentors for guidance and support throughout the internship.

21. Duke University Neuroscience Experience (DUNE)

Location: Duke University West Campus, Durham, NC

Stipend: Exact amount not specified

Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors who are at least 15 years old by the program start date. Must live within commuting distance of Duke University’s West Campus in North Carolina.

Application Deadline: February 9

Program Dates: June 16 – August 8

Acceptance Rate: Moderately selective; exact numbers not publicly disclosed

The Duke University Neuroscience Experience (DUNE) is a paid, eight-week internship that fully immerses high school students in neuroscience research. The internship requires a full-time, 40-hour weekly commitment, focusing on hands-on research activities, data analysis, and hypothesis testing. You will learn advanced methodologies while gaining valuable insights into neurobiology, cognitive science, and brain function.

Beyond lab work, DUNE includes professional development workshops covering topics such as college admissions, career planning, and pathways in academia, medicine, and industry. You will also participate in panel discussions with leading neuroscientists, which offer networking and mentorship opportunities. The program concludes with a poster presentation, where you will present your research findings to peers, family, and Duke faculty. 

22. Helios Scholars at TGen

Location: Phoenix, AZ or Flagstaff, AZ

Stipend: $14.35 per hour

Eligibility: Graduating high school seniors in Arizona who are about to enter college in the fall, aged 16 or older, with U.S. work authorization.

Application Deadline: February 5

Program Dates: June 9 – August 1 

Acceptance Rate: Highly competitive; exact numbers not publicly disclosed

The Helios Scholars at TGen program offers graduating high school seniors in Arizona a full-time, immersive internship experience in cutting-edge biomedical research. You will work with TGen scientists on innovative research projects in areas such as laboratory research, computational biology, bioinformatics, mathematics and statistics, and research administration.

Research topics often explore the genetic factors behind diseases like cancer, diabetes, and neurological disorders, as well as public health and infectious pathogens. Beyond laboratory work, the program includes seminars and professional development activities aimed at skill enhancement, career exploration, and scientific writing. It culminates in a research symposium, where you will present your findings and deliver oral presentations. 

23. Massachusetts General Hospital’s Youth Neurology Education and Research Program

Location: In-person internship with work locations varying based on lab assignments, including Massachusetts General Hospital Main Campus, Somerville, or other labs in Boston, Cambridge, or Somerville, MA.

Cost: No cost; paid internship (stipend details not disclosed).

Eligibility: Rising high school seniors or recent graduates residing or studying in Massachusetts. Must provide a Massachusetts address

Application Deadline: January 31

Program Dates: June 30 – August 8

Acceptance Rate: Moderate intake; exact numbers not publicly disclosed

The Youth Neurology Education and Research Program at Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) provides high school students with an exceptional opportunity to explore neurology through research and mentorship. As Harvard Medical School’s largest teaching hospital, MGH offers unmatched access to world-class research facilities and leading neurologists.

The program begins with a comprehensive boot camp featuring research and clinical training, interactive lab skills sessions, and networking opportunities with leaders in neurology and neuroscience. Over six weeks, students dedicate 40 hours per week to hands-on lab work, contributing to active research projects that explore neurological disorders, brain function, and cognitive science. The curriculum also includes expert-led seminars by top neurologists, panel discussions, and collaborative projects.

24. Clinical Neuroscience Immersion Experience (CNI-X) at Stanford University

Location: Virtual & In-person at Stanford University, Stanford, CA

Cost:

• CNV-X (Virtual via Zoom): $1,595

• CNI-X Session 1 (In-person): $2,895

• CNI-X Session 2 (In-person): $2,895

Eligibility: High school students aged 14–18

Application Deadline: March (Tentative, based on previous years)

Program Dates:

• CNV-X (Virtual): June 16 – June 27

• CNI-X Session 1 (In-person): July 7 – July 18

• CNI-X Session 2 (In-person): July 21 – August 1

Acceptance Rate: Moderate intake; exact numbers not publicly disclosed

The Clinical Neuroscience Immersion Experience (CNI-X) at Stanford University is a 10-day intensive program designed to immerse high school students in the fields of neuroscience, psychiatry, and psychology. You will attend seminars and lectures led by Stanford faculty and researchers, exploring topics such as clinical neuropsychiatry, psychiatric epidemiology, neuroscience research, and social and behavioral sciences. 

Working in small teams (8–10 students), you will collaborate on a capstone project, where you will design innovative solutions to real-world issues at the intersection of neuroscience and behavioral science. You will present your ideas at the program’s final capstone session, gaining valuable experience in scientific communication and teamwork. The curriculum emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, connecting neuroscience with psychology and psychiatry.

25. Summer Child Health Research Internship by University of Colorado School of Medicine and Children’s Hospital Colorado

Location: Anschutz Medical Campus (Children’s Hospital Colorado), Aurora, CO

Stipend: $4,400

Eligibility: High school seniors who are at least 18 years old by June

Application Deadline: February 1

Program Dates: June 2 – August 1 

Acceptance Rate: Highly competitive, accepting interns from a mix of high school seniors over 18, college students, graduate students, and first-year medical students

The Summer Child Health Research Internship is a prestigious nine-week program hosted by the University of Colorado School of Medicine and Children’s Hospital Colorado. During this time, you will work with leading researchers on pediatric studies and explore topics such as pediatric medicine, genetics, developmental biology, and public health. 

The curriculum includes weekly lectures from faculty experts, covering the latest developments in pediatric medicine and healthcare. The program culminates in a final presentation, where you will present your research findings through oral presentations, poster sessions, or PowerPoint presentations. A written report is also required. You will be encouraged to submit research abstracts to scientific conferences, with attendance costs covered for accepted submissions. 

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