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7 Research Programs for Middle School Students in California

Navigating the dynamic landscape of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is an exciting journey, especially for middle school students eager to explore the wonders of innovation and discovery. California, with its rich tapestry of educational resources and cutting-edge institutions, offers a range of research programs to inspire and empower young minds. 

In this blog, we present a curated selection of 7 research programs for middle school students in California. 

1. Lumiere's Junior Explorers Program (JEP)

Location: Remote 

Cost: $1990 (financial aid is available) 

Application deadline: Upcoming summer deadline - April 14, 2024. Apply here!

Program dates: June 3, 2024

Eligibility: Middle school students 

The Lumiere Junior Explorer Program is a 1-1 research program designed particularly for middle school students. Through the program, students will get a chance to work with PhD mentors from top universities like Harvard, Yale, MIT, and more to write research papers in their field of interest. 

You can pick from a wide range of subjects and topics including engineering, business, psychology, and social science. This is a great opportunity for students interested in interdisciplinary research and want to gain in depth knowledge of a subject.

2. Veritas AI Junior Fellowship Program

Location: Online

Cost: Free

Application Deadline: Upcoming summer deadline - April 21, 2024. Apply here!

Program Dates: June 3, 2024

Eligibility: Open to middle school students worldwide

Veritas AI, founded and run by Harvard graduate students, is an AI program designed for middle and high school students. Through the AI Junior Fellowship, students get a chance to work 1-1 with mentors from universities such as Harvard, MIT, CMU, and more to create their own research papers or hands-on projects. 

This program is a great opportunity for students interested in AI and data science and want to create unique, personalized projects. In the past, students have created projects in the fields of AI & medicine, AI & finance, AI & sports, AI & gaming, and more! 

3. California State Summer School for Mathematics and Science (COSMOS)

Location: COSMOS operates on multiple University of California campuses across the state, such as UC Irvine, UC Davis, and UC Santa Cruz

Cost: Tuition varies depending on the campus and financial aid is available for qualified students

Application Deadline: Typically in February

Program Dates: The program runs during the months of July and August

Eligibility: California residents currently in grades 8-12

COSMOS is a four-week residential program crafted to offer students an immersive and intellectually stimulating journey in STEM. At its core, COSMOS provides a rigorous academic curriculum complemented by many experiential learning opportunities. Throughout the program, participants are immersed in a blend of hands-on labs, engaging lectures, and collaborative team projects, all under the guidance of faculty, known for their expertise in each respective field. 

From programming autonomous robots to delving into the intricacies of microbiology through captivating experiments, COSMOS provides a multifaceted platform for students to deepen their understanding and appreciation of STEM subjects. In collaborative tasks and individual exploration, participants not only sharpen their technical skills but also create a foundation for critical thinking, problem-solving, and effective communication. 

4. Junior Scientist Training Program at Scripps Research

Location: La Jolla, California

Cost: $300

Application Deadline: Rolling 

Program Dates:TBD

Eligibility: Rising 6th-8th graders

Immerse yourself in the world of scientific discovery with the Junior Scientist Training Program at Scripps Research. This program offers middle school students an unparalleled opportunity to gain hands-on experience in laboratory research while exploring the fascinating realms of STEM. Through a combination of engaging activities, laboratory tours, and STEM-focused workshops, participants delve into the principles of scientific inquiry, develop essential laboratory skills, and discover the excitement of making new discoveries.

From exploring molecular biology and genetics to investigating chemistry and bioinformatics, the Junior Scientist Training Program provides a supportive and collaborative environment where students can unleash their curiosity and creativity. The program ends with you presenting your findings to your peers, gaining valuable feedback, and receiving a certificate of completion from Scripps Research. 

5. UC Davis Young Scholars Program

Location: The program is based on the UC Davis campus in Davis, California

Cost: Tuition may apply, but financial aid is available for eligible students

Application Deadline: Typically in March

Program Dates: The program operates during the summer months, spanning several weeks

Eligibility: Open to California residents in grades 8-11 who demonstrate academic excellence and a passion for STEM subjects

The UC Davis Young Scholars Program stands as a platform offering students an opportunity to actively participate in hands-on research and academics under the guidance of UC Davis faculty members. This experience is designed to push students to challenge their creativity, as they are involved in impactful research projects spanning disciplines like biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental science. 

Previous Young Scholars have engaged in pioneering projects that resonate with real-world significance with topics including: effects of climate change on ecosystems, genetic mutations in fruit flies, and water quality in local rivers and streams. Through these projects, participants not only deepen their understanding of scientific principles but also develop critical research skills, analytical thinking, and the ability to address complex challenges. 

6. Lawrence Hall of Science Summer Research Programs

Location: The Lawrence Hall of Science is located in Berkeley, California, on the campus of the University of California, Berkeley

Cost: Registration fees apply, with discounts available for members and early registration

Application Deadline: Deadlines vary depending on the specific camp session

Program Dates: Camps are typically offered during the summer months, with sessions available for different age groups

Eligibility: Open to children ages 4-14 with an interest in STEM

Lawrence at U.C. Berkeley's Young Scientists Experience offers middle school students an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of science and research. Throughout the week-long program, participants engage in hands-on activities, experiments, and field trips, guided by experienced educators and researchers. From exploring cutting-edge laboratories to discovering the latest advancements in STEM fields, students gain valuable insights into the college experience and potential career pathways.

By participating in The Lawrence at U.C. Berkeley's Young Scientists Experience, students not only enhance their academic skills but also develop essential critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork abilities. Whether they're conducting experiments in state-of-the-art facilities or collaborating with peers on research projects, participants are empowered to explore their interests and expand their horizons.

7. Everyday Engineering

Location: Virtual     

Cost: NA

Application Deadline: TBA

Program Dates: TBA

Eligibility: 6th - 8th grade students

Everyday Engineering is a unique program tailored by Carnegie Mellon University College of Engineering for students in grades 6th through 8th, with a focus on helping students gain a  research-oriented perspective towards engineering. This program pushes students to have a keener sense of observation when it comes to their everyday environments by utilizing research perspectives. 

Everyday Engineering aims to instill a heightened sense of curiosity and a research-driven mindset in students. Through exploration of recognizable examples, exposure to online exhibits, and interaction with CMU engineering students, participants not only gain insight into various engineering disciplines but also learn to approach everyday phenomena through a rigorous research framework. 

If you’re looking to build unique projects in the field of AI/ML, consider applying to Veritas AI! 


Veritas AI was founded by Harvard graduate students, and through the programs, you get a chance to learn the fundamentals of AI and computer science while collaborating on real-world projects. You can also work 1-1 with mentors from universities like Harvard, Stanford, MIT, and more to create unique, personalized projects. In the past year, we had over 1000 students learn data science and AI with us. You can apply here!

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