college research assignment for high school students

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62 Best Research Opportunities for High School Students

June 2, 2024

Hands-on laboratory-based research experiences are coveted by just about every STEM-oriented teenager on the planet. Of course, this level of demand renders research opportunities for high school students a valuable and rare commodity. Fortunately, there are a number of reputable summer programs run by universities, government agencies, and private research laboratories that afford young scientists this highly sought-after experience. Research opportunities during the actual school year are more challenging to locate as colleges are, at that time, catering to their own students, and the rigidity of the high school calendar makes participation a further challenge.

What type of research opportunities can a high school student have, anyway?

Research opportunities for high school students can range from introductory to highly advanced. Some programs focus on teaching students the fundamental skills required for research while others place students with a real working research group and allow them to contribute to legitimate experiments and papers. Your level of involvement will depend on the university or organization’s policies, your mentor, your lab team, and the type of research being conducted.

What types of research experiences look best on college applications?

Authentic, laboratory-based research experiences that you get paid for are the hardest types of positions to nail down, primarily because very few of these spots are available. Moreover, such research groups are conducting serious work—consequently, they’re looking for serious, high-achieving students who will positively enhance their dynamic. Additionally, these positions typically require a longer time commitment, with students working full-time (or close to full-time) hours for several months or even years. As such, accepting one of these positions may limit the other types of summer opportunities that you can participate in. Finally, due to safety concerns and restrictions, you will likely need to be at least 16 years old to participate in many types of lab-based research.

On the flip side are research opportunities that you pay to be involved in, with some being more selective than others. Many families wonder if these programs offer legitimate research experience or are simply another way to capitalize off of the college admissions craze, and the answer is that you have to do your homework.

Although some research opportunities offer little in the way of experience, others are truly authentic opportunities to work with a mentor and delve into an area of interest for academic enrichment—no different than any other cost-based summer program. In these cases, the fact that a student prioritized their intellectual curiosity and spent several months seriously pursuing a topic of interest will be an excellent addition to their application. We’ve gone ahead and done the hard work for you—any one of the opportunities listed below is legitimate and worthy of investing your time and resources into.

How do I decide what types of research opportunities to apply for?

If conducting research is important to you, we recommend applying to a mix of highly selective and lesser selective programs to maximize your chances of being accepted to at least one. Beyond selectivity, it’s important to consider additional several factors:

• Time commitment —Some programs may require a multi-week, full-time commitment over the summer. Others may require nights and weekends during the school year.
• Time frame —Some programs are only available in the summer while others run year-round (sometimes for multiple years).
• Cost/stipend —Do you have to pay for the program, or does the program pay you? Research whether the program will be a good fit for your financial situation, including how much it costs and if you’ll receive compensation for your work, either via academic credit or a paycheck. Note that many residential programs are cost-based while commuter programs that only accept local students are more likely to be fully funded and/or offer a stipend.
• Location —Evaluate whether you’d like to attend a local program, are willing to travel to a residential program, or would prefer a virtual option.
• Level of mentor interaction —During some programs, you’ll be closely supported by PhD faculty members, while others may be run by graduate or postdoc students and require students to be more independent.
• Opportunity to publish or enter research competitions —If publishing research or submitting your project/paper to a research competition is important to you, you’ll want to look into whether the program prepares you for that venture.

Our list includes a bevy of summer program choices as well as year-long internships and apprenticeships. We’ve divided the list into three sections: Virtual, Residential/Multi-Location, and Location-Specific.

For each entry, we list the geographic location of the program, the time frame and length of the program, any associated costs or stipends, and the eligibility criteria for participation.

Virtual Research Opportunities for High School Students

Virtual research opportunities for high school students offer ultimate flexibility, in regard to time commitment as well as subject matter.

1) Polygence

• Location : Virtual
• Timeframe : Academic year and/or summer
• Length: 2-6 months
• Cost : $495-$3,695
• Eligibility: No age restrictions

For high school students who want to showcase authentic passion on their college applications, Polygence offers the most personalized and flexible online research program that helps students turn their interests into unique research projects. Accordingly, they pair intellectually curious students with PhD-level mentors to design experiments, build robots, create podcasts, write original screenplays, and publish in peer-reviewed journals in all fields from the humanities to STEM. All 1:1 programs include ten meetings with a mentor in your chosen field as well as a self-selected project topic and outcome, which could include a research paper, a prototype, or a creative piece of work.

A multitude of personalized options are available, including additional brainstorming sessions, time with a specialist who will guide the student through the publishing or research competition process, and academic credit through UCI x GATI. Moreover, Polygence’s Pods program allows students to work with like-minded peers in a group setting.

Sound like a good fit? College Transitions readers can save $50 on their Polygence package.

Research areas available include:

• Computer science, engineering, AI, & game design
• Biology, biotech, chemistry, neuroscience, and physics
• Medicine, surgery, dentistry, and public health
• Business, finance, and economics
• Math, statistics, sports analytics, and quantitative analysis
• Psychology, psychiatry, cognitive science, and social sciences
• Creative writing, history, philosophy, and literature
• Animation, the arts, fashion, photography, and dance

Residential/Multi-Location Research Programs

In the following section, we’ve outlined programs that are residential or offer opportunities in multiple locations, making them more accessible to a wider array of students.

Programs are organized alphabetically by discipline.

Biology Research Opportunities for High School Students

2) university of chicago research in the biological sciences (ribs).

• Location : Chicago, IL
• Timeframe : Summer
• Length: 4 weeks
• Cost : $14,000
• Eligibility: Current sophomores and juniors

In UChicago’s highly selective RIBS program, students practice a range of molecular, microbiological, and cell biological research techniques. The goal? To prepare them to work in a research laboratory. Accordingly, for the first two weeks, students undergo basic training in lab skills and techniques. Then, they spend the final two weeks of the course immersed in an independent research project. At the end of the course, they present the project during a research forum. Moreover, students can expect weekly writing assignments and seminars. To be competitive, students should have a demonstrated interest in science as well as top grades in those classes.

Biomedical Research Programs for High School Students

3) rosetta institute of biomedical research molecular medicine workshops.

• Location : Berkeley; San Diego; Columbia; London; virtual
• Length: 2 weeks
• Cost : $3,580-$4,180 (residential); $2,280-$2,480 (commuter); $430-1,050 (online)
• Eligibility: High school students aged 14-18

Curious about biomedical research but not ready to pursue a full-blown lab internship? Rosetta Institute offers a number of residential and online two-week programs that introduce high schoolers to topics in medicine, drug development, pharmacy, and nursing. For example, current workshops include Medicinal Chemistry, Neurological Bioinformatics, and Molecular Biology of Cancer. All students are taught by PhD-level instructors and complete an original research project.

Chemistry Research Opportunities for High School Students

4) american chemical society — project seed.

• Location : Multiple
• Length: 8-10 weeks
• Cost : Free, and students receive a $4,000 stipend
• Eligibility: All high school students whose families meet annual income requirements, but preferably current sophomores, juniors, or seniors

Having been operational for more than fifty years, Project SEED (Summer Experiences for the Economically Disadvantaged) runs programs at over 350 institutions and has served over 12,000 students. The goal of the program is to empower a diverse cohort of high school students to conduct hands-on research experience in the chemical sciences. Accordingly, all students work full-time on meaningful independent or small group projects, are closely guided by a mentor, and either write a report or do a poster presentation at the end of their fellowship.

Genetics Research Opportunities for High School Students

5) jackson lab summer student program.

• Location : Bar Harbor, ME or Farmington, CT
• Length: 10 weeks
• Cost : Free, and students receive a $6,500 stipend plus funded room, board, and travel
• Eligibility: High school seniors can apply to the Bar Harbor program, while eligible undergrads can apply to either program.

Hoping to design and execute an original independent research project? You’ll be able to do just that through Jackson Lab’s Summer Student Program, which immerses students in one of seven areas: bioinformatics and computational biology, cancer, developmental biology and aging, genomics, immunology and infectious disease, metabolic diseases, and neurobiology and sensory deficits. Moreover, students are closely guided by a mentor and present their research at the end of the summer. Finally, the application process is intense and competitive, requiring two letters of recommendation, a transcript, a resume, evidence of a strong interest in genetics and genomics, and four essay responses.

Pre-Health Research Opportunities for High School Students

6) national institutes of health high school summer internship program.

• Location : Research groups are available at many of NIH’s 27 institutes and centers , including the main campus in Bethesda, MD
• Cost : Free; all students receive a stipend
• Eligibility: High school seniors age 17+

Through their HS-SIP Program, the National Institutes of Health places high school students in full-time research positions within their many active research groups. Subject areas include biomedical, behavioral, and social sciences, and are geared toward students who are interested in pursuing research and healthcare. Moreover, students can take part in Summer Poster Day, where they present their research to the NIH community. They also have access to professional development programs and educational/career advising.

Note that this research opportunity for high school students is extremely competitive; approximately 7% of applicants are ultimately accepted. Finally, if you are under the age of 18 when you participate in the program, you will need to live within 40 miles of the campus that you’d like to intern at.

STEM/Humanities Research Opportunities for High School Students

7) army educational outreach program—high school internships.

• Location : Various
• Timeframe : All Year
• Length: 3 months
• Cost : Free, and all interns receive a stipend
• Eligibility: All current high school students. Some sites may have additional eligibility requirements.

With programs currently available in twenty states, the Army Educational Outreach Program places high school students in university research labs or at a US Army Research Laboratory/Center. Each site has its own technical focus, from biology and materials science to cybersecurity and AI. Regardless of specialty, all interns receive formal mentorship from a professional scientist or engineer, have access to high-tech equipment, and work on relevant research that addresses a current major challenge.

8) Boston University RISE

• Location : Boston, MA
• Length: 6 weeks
• Cost : $5,350 plus room & board
• Eligibility: Current high school juniors

A residential program located on the Boston University campus, RISE offers high school students the opportunity to conduct laboratory research in one of two tracks: Internship or Practicum. Students in the Internship track work full-time on a research project that aligns with their interests, and are mentored by a faculty member, postdoc fellow, or grad student. 15 subject areas are available, including astronomy, mechanical engineering, medical laboratory research, and nutrition. Alternatively, Practicum students work in small groups on structured research related to systems neuroscience and neurobiology.

Research Opportunities for High School Students—Continued

9) michigan state high school honors science, math and engineering program.

• Location : East Lansing, MI
• Length: 7 weeks
• Cost : $4,000

HSHSP is a highly selective, residential program where students can pursue research opportunities in science, engineering, and mathematics. After learning more about the research process, students deeply explore a problem of interest while engaging in an authentic (not “fail-proof”) research experience. Along the way, they’ll work with professionals and peers in their field of interest. Finally, many students have gone on to publish their work or be recognized at prestigious research competitions.

10) MIT Research Science Institute

• Location : Cambridge, MA
• Cost : Free
• Eligibility: High school juniors

With a combined focus on academic coursework and hands-on research, RSI students first take one week of STEM coursework with MIT professors. Here, they’ll learn about current research topics in biology, chemistry, engineering, mathematics, physics, and the humanities. Then, for the remaining five weeks, students “experience the entire research cycle start to finish.” During this time, they participate in an intensive, mentored individual project experience that culminates in a written and oral presentation.

The program looks for students who are exceptionally academically talented. As such, the application process is quite intensive. PSAT Math scores must be over 740 and ACT Math scores must be over 33. In addition, students must write several essays, acquire teacher recommendations, and provide transcripts. Ultimately, only 100 students are accepted.

11) NASA Internship Programs

• Location : Various; there are 15 centers and facilities in the US. Remote opportunities may also be available.
• Timeframe : Available during the fall, spring, and summer
• Length: 10-16 weeks, depending on session
• Cost : Free; the majority of interns receive a stipend, but some are unpaid
• Eligibility: High school students aged 16+

NASA’s Office of STEM Engagement (OSTEM) offers a number of internship opportunities for high school students. Available projects change each year and are location-specific, and not every NASA center will offer internship opportunities every session. That said, current projects span a range of subject areas, including Climate Change in the Hudson Estuary and Characterizing the Urban Land Surface Temperature. During the research internship, students will be closely mentored by a research scientist, engineer, or other professional. Note that you will need to make your own housing arrangements if you are not a local student.

Are you an undergraduate student? Check out NASA Pathways , which can provide a direct transition into full-time employment at NASA.

12) Smith College Summer Science and Engineering Program

• Location : Northampton, MA
• Length: 2-4 weeks
• Cost : $4,745 (2 weeks); $8,082 (4 weeks)
• Eligibility: Female high school students in grades 9-12; some programs have specific prerequisites

Fun fact: Smith was the first women’s college to create a program in engineering science. As such, their summer programs are an excellent place for young women to participate in hands-on, introductory research experiences. Two-week sessions are offered, and students can take one or both. Each session offers six distinct course choices. For example, the first session offers Chemistry of Herbal Medicine, Designing Intelligent Robots, and Novel Bacteriophage Discovery. Second session courses include Where the Body Meets the Mind, Supercontinents, Rocks, and Fossils, and the Art and Science of Microcontrollers. Students spend five days a week in class, attending lectures and conducting experiments & fieldwork. Additionally, the program is team-based, allowing students to learn from each other’s ideas and perspectives.

13) Stony Brook University Garcia Center Research Experience for High School Students

• Location : Stony Brook, NY
• Timeframe : Summer (with possible academic year continuation)
• Cost : $4,000 plus room & board

At the Garcia Center for Polymers at Engineered Interfaces, high school students can design an original research project in polymer science and technology during an intensive seven-week summer program. Uniquely, the research can then be continued during the academic year under the guidance of a faculty mentor. Students should be highly motivated and high-achieving, with at least three upper-level science courses under their belt. Finally, past participants have regularly published their research and won recognition in national competitions.

14) Stony Brook University Simons Summer Research Program

• Cost : Students need to cover transportation costs (if commuting) or room/board (if residential). Room/board is $2,781. Stipends are also awarded at the end of the program.

After being matched with a mentor and research team, students are fully immersed in the research process. Placement availability varies from year to year, but typically about thirty projects are available across over a dozen disciplines. These include biochemistry, computer science, geosciences, and pharmacological sciences, among others. Moreover, some have prerequisites, such as specific AP courses or previous programming experience.

All students participate in weekly faculty research talks, workshops, events, and a culminating poster symposium.

15) Summer Science Program

• Location : Astrophysics: UNC Chapel Hill, University of Colorado, Georgia College & State University, New Mexico State University; Biochemistry: Purdue, Indiana University; Genomics: Georgetown, Purdue, New Mexico State; Synthetic Chemistry : Southwestern Oklahoma State University
• Cost : $8,800 max; all program fees are scaled according to what each family can afford
• Eligibility: Current high school juniors and exceptional sophomores

The Summer Science Program offers four different immersive research programs that take place on different college campuses around the country. These include programs in astrophysics, biochemistry, genomics, and synthetic chemistry. Each program has its own research focus. For example, astrophysics students will dive into Asteroid Orbit Determination while genomics students explore Antibiotic Resistance and Directed Evolution.

Students spend six days a week in class deeply investigating their research topics and learning more about general experimental science. They also take part in guest lectures and other special programming.

16) Texas Tech University Anson L. Clark Scholars Program

• Location : Lubbock, TX
• Cost : Free; all students receive a $750 stipend upon completion of their projects
• Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors aged 17+ by the start of the program

The Clark Scholars Program is one of the only programs on this list with research disciplines in the sciences as well as the humanities. For example, current research areas include everything from nutritional sciences and mechanical engineering to history. Over the course of seven weeks, students work closely with a faculty member to complete a research paper in their discipline. They also participate in weekly seminars, discussions, and field trips.

17) University of California Santa Barbara Research Mentorship Program

• Location : Santa Barbara, CA
• Cost : $11,874 (residential); $4,975 (commuter)
• Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors

During this intensive program, students work 35-50 hours per week on an interdisciplinary research project of their choice. Nearly thirty research areas are available in both the STEM disciplines and humanities; current topics include biochemistry, computer science, history, music, and anthropology, among others. Over the course of the program, they also take two courses: Introduction to Research and Presentation Techniques. Finally, students occasionally continue their research remotely during the academic year, depending on their mentor’s availability.

18) University of California Santa Barbara Summer Research Academies

• Cost : $8,224 (residential); $2,575 (commuter)
• Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors

Running for four weeks, the UCSB Summer Research Academies allow students to earn up to four credits. While taking a university-level course that teaches fundamental research concepts, students spend the first two weeks of the program developing a research question & framework via hands-on labs. They’ll then spend the final two weeks of the course analyzing their results and building presentations. Overall, they’ll spend about 25-40 hours per week working. Finally, twelve different tracks are available; each involves multiple disciplines. For example, “Bionic Creatures” combines mechanical engineering, materials science, soft robotics, biomanufacturing, and collective motion.

19) University of California Santa Cruz Science Internship Program (SIP)

• Location : Santa Cruz, CA
• Length: 9 weeks (two weeks virtual, seven weeks in-person)
• Cost : $4,750 plus room & board
• Eligibility: High school students aged 14+, although some research groups require students to be 16+

UCSC’s SIP Program offers a wide range of research focus areas, including science and engineering as well as social science, humanities, and art. For example, over 100 projects are currently offered that include everything from “Eating Insects in Silicon Valley: Cultural Gaps Between Food-Tech and Tradition” and “Future Projected Changes in the Distribution and Variability of Ocean Chlorophyll in Climate Simulations.” Before you dive in, you’ll spend two weeks doing online research prep (this part is conducted remotely) followed by seven weeks of in-person, mentored research. Students get to engage in authentic, open-ended projects that fully immerse them in the academic research experience. Moreover, they’ll present their findings at a symposium at the end of the program.

20) University of California Davis Young Scholars Program

• Location : Davis, CA
• Cost : $6,750
• Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors who will be 16+ by the start of the program

Interested in biological, agricultural, environmental, or natural sciences? If so, UC Davis is a stellar place to explore those interests through research. All students have the opportunity to work on independent, original projects while receiving one-on-one faculty mentorship. Moreover, they each produce a journal-quality paper and symposium presentation. In addition to research, students also participate in a lecture series presented by UC Davis faculty; past topics have included forensic entomology and nutrition, among others. Finally, field trips to educational facilities like the Monterey Bay Aquarium and Bodega Bay Marine Laboratory round out the experience.

21) University of Florida Student Science Training Program

• Location : Gainesville, FL
• Cost : $5,200
• Eligibility: Rising seniors aged 16+

Thinking about a career in science, medicine, math, computer science, or engineering? UF’s Student Science Training Program could be the right fit. For thirty hours per week, you’ll work with a faculty mentor and lab team on university-level, ongoing research. Moreover, you’ll participate in a science lecture series as well as a UF Honors Program seminar class. Over the course of the program, you will write a research paper, present a poster, and give two oral presentations. Finally, social programming is included.

22) University of Iowa Secondary Student Training Program

• Location : Iowa City, IA
• Cost : $7,500

During this intensive and competitive program, students conduct research within small groups that are supported by a University of Iowa faculty member. There are twenty current active research areas, including chemistry, geography, neurology, orthopedics & rehabilitation, and religious studies. You’ll be working on your project approximately seven hours per day, attending classes in the evenings, and participating in structured activities on the weekend. Moreover, all groups will create and present a poster at the culmination of the program.

23) University of Massachusetts Amherst Summer Programs

• Location : Amherst, MA
• Cost : $3,636 (residential); $2,167 (commuter)
• Eligibility: Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors

UMass Amherst offers two introductory, research-focused opportunities for high school students. These are Antibiotic Resistance: A Global Health Crisis, which allows students to join the Department of Microbiology in researching new antibiotics, and Energy Without Borders, which delves into climate change, infrastructure, and green energy. In both courses, you’ll learn research methods, complete multiple lab experiences, and present a research poster. Finally, students can earn two college credits upon successful completion of the program.

Location-Specific Research Opportunities for High School Students

The following programs are not residential and only offered in a specific location. Many also only accept local students, although some do allow out-of-state students to apply. If that’s the case, you will need to secure your own living accommodations and transportation. Moreover, if you are under the age of 18, you will need to be supervised by a parent or guardian.

Programs are organized alphabetically by state.

24) California Academy of the Sciences—Careers in Science Intern

• Location : San Francisco, CA
• Focus: STEM
• Length: Multi-year (2-3 years)
• Eligibility: 9 th or 10 th grade student enrolled in an SFUSD school with a GPA of 2.5 or higher

25) Cedars Sinai INSPIRE High School

• Location : Los Angeles, CA
• Focus: Pre-Health
• Cost : Free; all students are paid
• Eligibility: High school students age 16+

26) City of Hope Summer Student Academy

• Location : Duarte, CA
• Focus: Biomedicine
• Cost : Free; all students receive a stipend of $4,000

27) Sandia National Laboratories—Internships

• Location : Livermore, CA
• Focus : STEM
• Timeframe : Academic year and summer internships available
• Length: Academic year or 10-12 weeks (summer)
• Cost : Free; all positions are paid

28) Scripps Student Research Internship Program

• Location : La Jolla, CA
• Focus : Translational science/genomics
• Cost : Free; stipends are typically offered

29) UCSF SEP High School Intern Program

• Focus : Biomedical research
• Length: 8 weeks
• Eligibility: High school juniors enrolled in an SFUSD high school, SF charter school, or College Track San Francisco

30) UCSF Summer Student Research Program

• Location : Oakland, CA
• Length: 9 weeks
• Cost : Free; all students are given a stipend between $3,000-$4,300
• Eligibility: High school juniors or seniors, aged 16+

Connecticut

31) jackson lab academic year fellowships.

• Location : Farmington, CT*
• Focus: Genetics
• Timeframe : Academic year
• Length: 1 school year
• Cost : Free; students must be able to receive academic credit for their work
• Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors age 16+ within commuting distance of the lab

*Some fully remote opportunities are available

32) Yale School of Medicine Discovery to Cure High School Internship

• Location : New Haven, CT

33) Yale University Social Robotics Lab High School Internship

• Focus: Robotics and human social behavior
• Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors aged 16+

34) Argonne National Laboratory — Exemplary Student Research Program

• Location : Lemont, IL
• Focus: Engineering
• Eligibility: Application must be completed by participating teacher

35) Chicago EYES on Cancer

• Focus : Biomedicine
• Timeframe : All year, with two 8-week summer research experiences
• Length: 2 years
• Cost : Free; all students receive $3,100 stipend
• Eligibility: High school sophomore, junior, or senior aged 16+

36) University of Kansas Biotech Research Apprentice Program

• Location : Overland Park, KS
• Focus : Biotech
• Length: Semester

37) Jackson Lab Academic Year Fellowships

• Location : Bar Harbor, ME*

38) National Cancer Institute Werner H. Kirsten Student Internship Program

• Location : Frederick, MD
• Timeframe : Academic year & summer
• Length: 1 year
• Cost : Free; academic credit available during school year, stipend provided in summer
• Eligibility: High school junior age 17+ who attends an eligible school located within a 30-mile radius of campus

39) University of Minnesota Lillehei Heart Institute Summer Research Scholars Program

• Location : Minneapolis, MN
• Focus: Cardiovascular medicine
• Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors age 16+ as well as undergraduate students

40) Coriell Institute for Medical Research

• Location : Camden, NJ
• Eligibility: High school student aged 17+

41) Princeton Laboratory Learning Program

• Location : Princeton, NJ
• Focus : Natural Sciences or Engineering
• Length: 5-6 weeks

42) Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory High School Internship

• Location : Princeton, NJ*
• Focus : Physics
• Eligibility: High school seniors (program takes place summer after graduation)

*Remote projects may be available.

43) Rutgers Institute for Translational Medicine and Science Summer Research Program (RITMS)

• Location : Rutgers, NJ
• Focus : Translational medicine/science

44) Rutgers Waksman Institute Summer Experience Program

• Location : Piscataway, NJ*
• Focus : Molecular biology/bioinformatics
• Cost : $2,000
• Eligibility: High school students who have completed a high school-level biology course

*Online version of the program is also available

45) Los Alamos National Laboratory High School Internship Program

• Location : Los Alamos, NM
• Length: 11 weeks
• Eligibility: New Mexico high school seniors aged 16+

46) Sandia National Laboratories—Internships

• Location : Albuquerque, NM

47) Baruch College STEM Research Academy

• Location : New York, NY
• Timeframe : Spring/summer
• Cost : Free, but all students receive a stipend of $1,575
• Eligibility: Must be a NYC public high school sophomore junior to apply

48) Burke Neurological Institute NeuroAcademy

• Location : White Plains, NY
• Focus: Neuroscience
• Eligibility: Completion of NYS Regents Living Environment or equivalent Biology class; cumulative GPA of 3.4 or higher

49) City Tech College STEM Research Academy

• Length: Two semesters (January-August)
• Eligibility: NYC public school sophomore or junior

50) Columbia Zuckerman Institute—BRAINYAC Program

• Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors from select partner programs/schools in Upper Manhattan and the Bronx

51) HOPP Summer Student Program at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

• Focus: Biomedical or computational research
• Eligibility: High school students aged 14+

52) University of Rochester Laboratory for Laser Energetics Summer High School Research Program

• Location : Rochester, NY
• Focus: Laser energetics
• Eligibility: Rochester-area high school students who have completed their junior year

53) Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute

• Location : Cleveland, OH
• Timeframe : Varies; depends on lab
• Length: Varies; depends on lab

54) OHSU School of Medicine Partnership for Scientific Inquiry (PSI)

• Location : Portland, OR
• Focus: Biomedical research
• Timeframe : Academic semester + summer
• Length: 16+ weeks
• Eligibility: Oregon-based high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors aged 16+

Pennsylvania

55) fox chase cancer center high school research programs.

• Location : Philadelphia, PA
• Timeframe : During school year
• Length: 2-3 months; depends on program
• Eligibility: Philadelphia-area high school students; students must be 16+ for some programs

56) Penn State College of Medicine Research Internships

• Location : Hershey, PA
• Length: Varies; could be weeks to months depending on lab
• Cost : Paid and unpaid internships available

57) University of Pennsylvania GRASP Lab High School Internships

• Focus: Robotics
• Cost : Free; stipend typically available
• Eligibility: Rising high school senior

58) George Mason University Aspiring Scientists Internship Program (ASSIP)

• Location : Fairfax, VA*
• Eligibility: High school students aged 15+ or 16+, depending on program

*Some fully remote and hybrid opportunities are available, depending on the lab.

59) Jefferson Lab High School Summer Honors Program

• Location : Newport News, VA
• Eligibility: High school students aged 16+ who live within 60 miles of the lab

60) Virginia Tech Fralin Biomedical Research Institute Summer Research Program

• Location : Roanoke, VA
• Focus: Health behaviors research
• Cost : Free; all students receive a stipend of $4,800
• Eligibility: Rising high school junior or senior in the Roanoke Valley

61) Pacific Northwest National Laboratory High School Research Programs

• Location : Richland, WA
• Timeframe : Summer & academic year programs available
• Length: Academic year or 10 weeks (summer)
• Eligibility: High school students aged 16+; some labs may require students to be 18+

62) Seattle Children’s Hospital Research Training Program

• Location : Seattle, WA
• Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, or seniors within commuting distance of downtown Seattle

Final Thoughts—Research Opportunities for High School Students

If gaining research experience is important to you, it’s in your best interest to explore a number of different programs, evaluating whether their structure, length, cost, and outcomes are in line with your goals. Finding the right opportunity may take some time, but it will be well worth the effort required.

• Research Programs

Kelsea Conlin

Kelsea holds a BA in English with a concentration in Creative Writing from Tufts University, a graduate certificate in College Counseling from UCLA, and an MA in Teaching Writing from Johns Hopkins University. Her short fiction is forthcoming in Chautauqua .

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31 Research Opportunities + Internships for High Schoolers in 2024

What’s covered:.

• Research Opportunities and Internships for High School Students
• How to Find Research Opportunities in High School
• How Will Doing Research Impact Your College Chances?

Research drives innovation across every field of study, from natural sciences to health to history. Pursuing curiosity can impact industries, drive policy, and help us to better understand the world around us. Without curiosity and research, our society would surely stagnate. 

Contrary to popular belief, however, you don’t have to be a seasoned professional to conduct meaningful research. There are plenty of opportunities for high school students to get a head start on their future careers and contribute to substantial change. Keep reading to learn about 30 great opportunities for students looking for early chances to conduct research! 

Research Opportunities and Internships for High School Students 

1. memorial sloan kettering human oncology and pathogenesis program.

Application Deadline: February 9

Location: New York, NY

Duration: Eight weeks (June 27 – August 22)

Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) is one of the most well-known cancer centers in the world. The Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program (HOPP) at MSK hosts a Summer Student Program for students to conduct independent research projects while participating in extracurricular activities, training, and other opportunities.  

During the eight-week program, participants work with a mentor who will act as a supervisor to help them develop their research skills. Additionally, students have the opportunity to complete an independent research project that aligns with their mentor’s work. All participants will present their projects at a poster session at the end of the summer.

To participate, you must have completed at least 9th grade by June 2024, be at least 14 years old by June 27, have a 3.5 GPA in science subjects, and submit two letters of recommendation. This is a paid opportunity—participants will receive a stipend. 

2. Rockefeller University Summer Science Research Program  

Application Deadline: January 5 

Duration: Seven weeks (June 24 – August 8) 

The Rockefeller University Summer Science Research Program allows high school students to conduct real, innovative research over seven weeks through the renowned Rockefeller University, under the guidance of leading scientists. 

SSRP scholars will be able to design and conduct their own research project as part of a themed research track, which is modeled after a Rockefeller research topic and/or technique, with the help of scientist mentors from the Rockefeller community. Most of the research will be conducted in the RockEDU Laboratory—a 3,000-square-foot research space specifically dedicated to developing biomedical research skills.

Students must be at least 16 years old by the start of the program to participate.  

3. Lumiere Research Scholar Program

Application Deadline : Varies by cohort. Main summer deadlines are March 15, April 15, and May 15

Location:  Remote — you can participate in this program from anywhere in the world!

Duration: Options range from 12 weeks to 1 year

Founded by Harvard & Oxford researchers, the Lumiere Research Scholar Program is a rigorous research program tailored for high school students. The program pairs high-school students with PhD mentors to work 1-on-1 on an independent research project . At the end of the 12-week program, you’ll have written an independent research paper! You can choose research topics from subjects such as medicine, computer science, psychology, physics, economics, data science, business, engineering, biology, and international relations.

This program is designed to accommodate your schedule—you can participate in the summer, fall, winter, or spring, and the program is also conducted fully remotely. While you must be currently enrolled in high school and demonstrate high academic achievement (most students have an unweighted GPA of 3.3), no previous knowledge of your field of interest is required. The cost of the program ranges from $2,800 to $8,900, but financial aid is available.

Note that this is a selective program. Last year, over 4000 students applied for 500 spots in the program. You can find more details about the application here .

4. Research Science Institute (RSI)

Application Deadline: December 13 

Location: Cambridge, MA

Duration: Five weeks (June 23 – August 3) 

The prestigious RSI, which takes place at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) annually, brings together 100 of the world’s top high school students. The free program blends on-campus coursework with off-campus science and technology research. 

Participants complete individual research projects while receiving mentorship from experienced scientists and researchers, and present their findings through oral and written reports in a conference-style setting at the end of the program. 

5. NYU Tandon – Applied Research Innovations in Science and Engineering (ARISE)

Application Deadline: March 6

Duration: 10  weeks (June 3 – August 9)

Open to New York City high school students who will complete 10th or 11th grade in June 2024, the ARISE program provides access to college-level workshops and lab research across fields like bio, molecular, and chemical engineering, robotics, computer science, and AI.

Over the course of 10 weeks—four virtual and six in person—participants will receive guidance from graduate or postdoctoral students at the NYU Tandon School of Engineering. 

6. Simons Summer Research Program

Application Deadline: February 7

Location: Stony Brook, NY

Duration: Five weeks (July 1 – August 9) 

During Stony Brook ’s Simons Summer Research Program, high school students conduct hands-on research in areas like science, math, and engineering while working with faculty mentors. Simons Fellows have the opportunity to join real research teams and learn about laboratory equipment and techniques. They also attend weekly faculty research talks and participate in special workshops, tours, and events. 

At the closing poster symposium, students will receive a stipend for their participation. To apply, you must be at least 16 years old by the start of the program and currently be in your junior year. 

7. SPARK Summer Mentorship Program

Application Deadline: N/A

Location: Greater Seattle area

Duration: 8-10 weeks 

SPARK is a summer mentorship program that pairs high-achieving and highly motivated high schoolers with industry experts, university professors, and mentors to conduct research on customers and financial markets. The program is only open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents.  

8. MDI Biological Laboratory – Biomedical Bootcamp 2024

Application Deadline: March 18 

Location: Bar Harbor, ME

Duration: One week (July 15 – 19) 

In this bootcamp, students will receive a hands-on introduction to biomedical research at MDI Biological Laboratory. Participants will learn essential scientific skills such as experimental design and hypothesis testing, cutting-edge laboratory techniques, data analysis, bioinformatics, and scientific communication. 

During the program, scientists and bioentrepreneurs at the lab will help participants explore scientific ethics at large, as well as career paths in biomedicine, research, and entrepreneurship in Maine and beyond.

Participants must be at least 16 years old by the start of the program and must be entering their junior or senior year in September 2024, or graduating in June 2024. 

9. Boston University – Research in Science & Engineering (RISE) Internship  

Application Deadline: February 14  

Location: Boston, MA

Duration: Six weeks (June 30 – August 9)  

RISE is a six-week program for rising seniors with an interest in pursuing a major and/or career in STEM. There are a multitude of tracks available, in areas such as astronomy, biology, chemistry, computer science, environmental science, and neuroscience. In each track, students conduct research under the mentorship of Boston University faculty, postdoctoral fellows, or graduate students. They will also attend weekly workshops with their peers. 

10. The Wistar Institute – High School Program in Biomedical Research

Application Deadline: March 31 

Location: Philadelphia, PA

Duration: Four weeks (July 15 – August 8) 

A leading biomedical research organization, The Wistar Institute is an ideal setting for students to learn research skills. Participants will complete their own research project while being trained in a principal investigator’s laboratory. They’ll also attend seminars, receive mentorship, and deliver a final presentation about their work.

Students are expected to participate Monday through Thursday from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Absences of more than two consecutive days cannot be accommodated. Students will receive a stipend of $1,000 upon completion of the program, to compensate for commuting costs or other personal expenses accrued during the program. 

11. California Academy of Sciences – Careers in Science (CiS) Intern Program

Application Deadline: April 1, 2024

Location: San Francisco, CA

Duration: Multi-year, year-round participation (after school and on weekends)

This long term program gives San Francisco students from communities that are underrepresented in STEM the opportunity to learn about the world of science and sustainability. Students receive mentorship, develop career skills, and more—all while getting paid for their work. Students also attend workshops and conferences throughout the course of the program. 

12. NASA OSTEM Internship

Application Deadline: February 2

Location: Varies

Duration: Varies

NASA offers a variety of internships for high school students across its numerous campuses. Interns gain real-world work experience by working side by side with research scientists and engineers, which will strengthen their resume and help prepare them for their eventual careers. All participants must be at least 16 years old and enrolled in high school full time.

13. New-York Historical Society Student Historian Internship Program

Application Deadline: April 7

Duration: July 9 – August 15

Not all research is conducted in STEM subjects! Developed for students interested in history, the New-York Historical Society’s Student Historian Program gives participants the opportunity to conduct research on a history topic—2024’s theme is Our Composite Nation: Frederick Douglass’ America . During the program, participants will work with historian mentors, visit history archives around New York City, lead gallery tours, and develop their historical thinking, communication, and digital media skills.

Applicants must be entering grades 10, 11, or 12, and live in the New York City metro area. This opportunity is unpaid for most participants, but some interns with demonstrated financial need can potentially receive a stipend.

14. Adler Planetarium Summer High School Internship  

Application Deadline: March 1

Location: Chicago, IL

Duration: Six weeks (July 8 – August 14)

During this summer internship program, students will learn about the Adler Planetarium and the career opportunities within it and planetariums and museums in general, in areas ranging from Visitor Experience and Learning to Research. Students will also get the chance to see how research gets translated into a museum experience. 

15. Zuckerman Institute Brain Research Apprenticeships in New York at Columbia University (BRAINYAC)

Application Deadline: TBA for 2025 program

Duration: Eight weeks  

BRAINYAC participants receive the rare opportunity to work on research in a lab at Columbia University , one of the most prestigious institutions in the world, as high school students, which results in a stronger, more comprehensive understanding of how scientific discovery happens. They connect with real scientists, acquire essential research and laboratory skills, and learn about advances in neuroscience research. 

In order to apply, you must be in 10th or 11th grade and must be nominated by one of the program’s partners—S-PREP, Lang Youth Medical, Double Discovery Center, Columbia Secondary School, or BioBus.  

16. Brookfield Zoo King Conservation Science Scholars Program

Application Deadline: Rolling admission 

Location: Brookfield, IL

Duration: N/A

Interactive workshops, fun activities, research, and community-based projects are at the core of this exciting internship. It’s an excellent opportunity for students who love animals and also want to gain research skills in the domains of zoology, environmental science, and conservation. 

As a King Scholar, you’ll learn about different topics through Foundation Courses, such as Diversity Awareness and Introduction to Conservation, all while networking with others and preparing for college and an eventual career in a related field. After one year of participation, you’ll be invited to apply for scholarships and paid positions at the zoo. 

17. The Science Research Mentoring Program (SRMP) at the American Museum of Natural History  

Application Deadline: March 8

Duration: One year (August to June) 

The American Museum of Natural History is one of the most iconic and fascinating places in New York City. Its Science Research Mentoring Program is an amazing opportunity for NYC high school students to conduct a yearlong research project with Museum scientists. 

Students in SRMP get paid to learn how scientific research is conducted. Depending on their topic of study, students can learn a variety of different research skills, like working with DNA in the lab, analyzing data from space-based telescopes, reading scientific articles, and learning to code and analyze data in Python, R, and other programming languages. 

18. Anson L. Clark Scholars Program

Application Deadline:   February 15

Location: Lubbock, TX

Duration: Seven weeks (June 16 – August 1) 

Through the Anson L. Clark Scholar Program, an intensive seven-week summer research program for twelve highly qualified high school juniors and seniors, students will gain hands-on experience with practical research alongside experienced and knowledgeable faculty at Texas Tech University .

Students can choose to participate in research in one field from a broad variety of options, including cell and molecular biology, chemistry, computer science, economics, engineering, history, and more! 

To apply, students must complete an online application that includes short essays, high school transcripts, test scores (at least a PSAT if no others are available), three recommendations (at least two from teachers), and a list of the student’s top five activities.

19. UChicago Data Science Institute Summer Lab Program  

Application Deadline: January 16 

Duration: Eight weeks (June 10 – August 2)

The Data Science Institute Summer Lab Program is an immersive eight-week paid summer research program at the University of Chicago . During the program, high school and undergraduate students are paired with a data science mentor, whose expertise could be in computer science, data science, social science, climate and energy policy, public policy, materials science, biomedical research, or another related field.

Participants will hone their research methodology, research practice, and teamwork skills. No prior research experience is required to apply. All participants will receive access to applied data science research, which they will use to craft a research project. The project findings will be presented in a video that will be shown at an end-of-summer symposium.

20. UT Austin College of Natural Sciences High School Research Academy

Application Deadline: March 24

Location: Austin, TX

Duration: Five weeks (June 10 – July 17) 

Through UT Austin ’s HSRA, high school students participate in interdisciplinary research projects being conducted by active College of Natural Sciences laboratories in fields such as biochemistry, biology, environmental science, genetics, neuroscience, genome engineering, data analytics, ecology, and more. 

There is a scholarship fund for underserved groups, so some stipends and free tuition scholarships may be available to students with demonstrated financial need. 

21. Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience – Summer Research Internship

Location: Jupiter, FL

Duration: Six weeks (June 17 – July 26) 

The MPFI Summer Research Internship offers rising juniors and seniors an immersive laboratory experience where they can learn from seasoned researchers. The program is designed specifically for students with an interest in brain structure, function and development, and the advanced imaging techniques and technologies used in neuroscience. 

Program participants will participate in research projects alongside MPFI scientists, prepare a written scientific abstract based on their research project, and deliver a short presentation at the end of the summer. Research tracks include neuroscience, scientific computer programming, and mechanical engineering as it relates to neuroscience.

Applicants must be entering their junior or senior years in a Palm Beach or Martin County high school, be residents of one of those two counties, and be at least 16 by the beginning of the internship. Interns will be paid at a rate of $12.50 per hour.

22. Lincoln Park Zoo Malott Family Zoo Intern Program

Application Deadline: March 11 

Duration: Seven weeks (June 24 – August 9) 

During this paid seven-week program, high school students learn how to educate others about animal and conservation sciences while crafting digital messages to engage audiences. The program culminates in a final project. Throughout the internship, students meet with researchers and the Animal Care staff to explore careers in the animal science and conservation fields. 

Applicants must be Chicago residents between the ages of 15-18, and must be entering grades 10-12 or their freshman year of college by the start of the internship.

23. The Scripps Research High School Internship Program  

Application Deadline: April 19

Location: La Jolla, CA

Duration: Seven weeks  

The Scripps Research Institute’s La Jolla, California headquarters is proud to offer a seven-week hands-on research experience for San Diego County high schoolers. The program is specially designed to expose students to careers in the biological and chemical sciences, to provide hands-on laboratory experience, and to motivate and prepare students for continuing education in STEM. 

Because Scripps is committed to increasing the number of students from underrepresented communities in STEM college programs, a special emphasis is placed on identifying and recruiting students who are from groups that are historically underrepresented in the sciences. All students will receive a $4,760 stipend.

24. QuarkNet Summer Research Program  

Application Deadline: January 31

Location: DuPage County, IL

Duration: Seven weeks (June 17 – August 2) 

High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors with a strong interest in STEM have a unique opportunity to work with scientists on research projects during this paid seven-week program at the prestigious Fermilab, located just outside of Chicago near Batavia, IL.

Interns are encouraged to indicate areas in which they have a particular interest, although research projects vary yearly based on the work ongoing at the lab. Broadly speaking, Fermilab’s focus is on particle physics.

Required application materials include a questionnaire, a letter of recommendation, and an essay. To apply, students must have U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status and must provide evidence of identity and eligibility to work in the United States. Participants will be paid at a rate of $17.20 per hour.

25. RISE Environmentor Internship

Location: Far Rockaway, NY

Duration: Six weeks (July 1 – August 15)

The Environmentor Internship offers a great opportunity for 9th through 11th graders who live or attend school near the Rockaway Peninsula to gain firsthand research experience. Participants are mentored by scientists from local universities and research institutions as they work on projects focused on the Rockaway shoreline. Past research topics have included sea turtle strandings, octopus behavior, mussel denitrification, and dolphin fin morphology.

Students will also take part in water safety courses, receive CPR training, and explore on-water activities like kayaking and surfing. Students receive up to a $1,200 stipend, as well as community service hours for their participation in the program.

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

Application Deadline: February 24

Location: Stanford, CA

Duration: Eight weeks (June 10 – August 1)

Students in this summer program are given the chance to perform research on a medically oriented project and work side by side with Stanford University students, researchers, and faculty. Students can choose from eight areas of research, including topics like immunology, cancer biology, and bioinformatics, which are all designed to increase their interest in the biological sciences and provide a deeper understanding of how scientific research is conducted.

The program is open to current high school juniors and seniors. Students will receive a minimum $500 stipend for their participation in the program.

27. Secondary Student Training Program

Application Deadline: February 16

Location: Iowa City, IA

Duration: June 19 – July 26

High schoolers in grades 10 and 11 can take part in an immersive research experience, which will allow them to explore their interests, enhance their academic skills, and build relationships with their peers during this research-focused summer program.

Participants can choose from a multitude of research areas, ranging from biology to industrial and systems engineering to religious studies. The program culminates with students creating and presenting a poster of their findings. All participants will live on the University of Iowa ‘s campus for the duration of the program, and have access to all of the university’s libraries, study areas, and computer facilities.

Although this program is quite expensive, with a fee of $7,500, financial aid is available to cover up to 95% of the cost.

28. Young Scholars Summer STEMM Research Program

Location: Urbana, IL

Duration: Six weeks (June 20 – August 2)

This program, offered by the prestigious Grainger College of Engineering at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) , allows students to gain hands-on research experience in fields such as cancer immunology, AI, physics, quantum mechanics, and electrical engineering. They will also build valuable general life skills by participating in seminars on topics ranging from the college admission process to how to communicate scientifically.

The program is open to rising 10th through 12th graders from Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Iowa, and Wisconsin.

29. Summer Science Program (SSP)

Duration: Varies depending on location and field of focus

Students in the SSP get the chance to work in small teams on a real research project and gain firsthand experience taking and analyzing data. Research opportunities are offered in three fields—astrophysics, biochemistry, and genomics—and are held at a variety of institutions, including University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill , Georgetown University , Purdue University , and New Mexico State University .

The program is open to high school juniors, although a small number of exceptional sophomores have attended the program. You must be between 15-19 to participate, and have completed prerequisite coursework, which varies by field. Financial aid is available for this program.

30. The Jackson Laboratory Summer Student Program

Application Deadline: January 29

Location: Bar Harbor, ME, and Farmington, CT

Duration: 10 weeks (June 1 – August 10)

Students immerse themselves in genetics and genomics research while learning about laboratory discovery and scientific communication, as well as building professional skills. Over the course of the 10-week program, students work with a mentor to develop a research project, implement their plan, analyze their data, and report their results.

This prestigious program is competitive. Just 40 students are selected to participate annually. Participants receive a $6,500 stipend and have their room, board, and travel expenses covered.

31. Fred Hutch Summer High School Internship Program

Application Deadline: March 31

Location: Seattle, WA

Duration: Eight weeks (June 24 – August 16) 

This full-time, paid internship opportunity offers students a chance to immerse themselves in activities at the Fred Hutch Cancer Center, one of the top cancer research centers in the world. The program begins with two weeks of laboratory training and is followed by six weeks of mentored activities, research seminars, workshops focused on college and careers, and social activities.

The program is open to high schoolers entering their senior year with a strong interest in science and high academic achievement, and is specifically aimed at students from backgrounds underrepresented in biomedical science. Interns receive a stipend upon successful completion of the program.

How to Find Research Opportunities in High School 

Define your area of interest .

Before you start looking for opportunities, narrow your area of interest a bit, whether it’s cancer, engineering, computer science, neuroscience, or something else entirely. Also bear in mind that while there may be more STEM opportunities available for high school students, research isn’t limited to these fields—research is also a key component of the social sciences, humanities, and other non-STEM fields. 

While you should be somewhat specific about what you’re hoping to research, don’t narrow your scope so much that it’s impossible to find a valuable opportunity, especially since opportunities for high schoolers in general are more limited than they are for students who have completed at least some college.

Talk to People in Your Immediate Circle 

Teachers, neighbors, your family, parents of friends, friends of your parents—any of these people could know about a research opportunity for you, or at least know someone else who does. Throughout your life, you will find that networking is often the key to finding career opportunities. 

Leveraging your network can help you uncover unique opportunities crowdsourced by the people who know you best—the best opportunities aren’t always hosted by large universities or programs. 

Reach Out to Local Institutions and Laboratories 

In addition to networking with your immediate circle, reach out to local facilities, such as labs, hospitals, clinics, and universities that conduct research. Even if opportunities aren’t publicized, these institutions and laboratories may be willing to make room for you. Remember: when pitching your idea, don’t make it too niche—this will make it more difficult to find a fit and market your skills to labs. 

Cast a Wide Net 

Research opportunities are hard to secure, especially when you’re a young student, so you need to be persistent. You may need to write a hundred emails, but if you put in the effort and cast a wide net, you’ll vastly improve your chances of landing a great opportunity. 

Try not to be too picky, either. Of course, you shouldn’t just accept any offer , especially if it doesn’t appeal to you. But even if the opportunity doesn’t align perfectly with your skills and interests, it can still be a great chance to gain experience and make you a better candidate for future experiences.

How Will Doing Research Impact Your College Chances? 

How much participating in research enhances your college admissions profile depends on many factors, including the scope of the project, the prestige of the program or institution, your individual role and performance, the institution’s connections to or sponsorships by certain colleges, and even how much weight a college places on extracurricular activities in general. 

Generally speaking, there are four tiers of extracurricular activities that colleges think about when reviewing applicants’ activities. Selective, competitive, and prestigious activities are often found in the top tiers, Tier 1 and Tier 2. Tier 1 includes things such as being a highly recruited basketball player or an award-winning national science fair competitor. 

Tier 2 is similar, but is usually reserved for activities that are less exceptional than those in Tier 1. Tiers 3 and 4 are reserved for more common extracurricular achievements, such as holding school leadership positions or being a member of a debate team.

Research usually falls into Tier 2, and some particularly prestigious opportunities could even be Tier 1. That’s because it’s somewhat unusual for high school students to conduct research in professional and collegiate settings, so it’s more likely to impress colleges than other kinds of extracurricular activities.

Do you want to find out the impact research and other extracurricular activities might have on your chances of admission to top colleges and universities? Try using CollegeVine’s free chancing calculator ! 

Our tool evaluates your admissions profile, by accounting for factors like your grades,standardized test scores, and extracurriculars (including research!) to show you how you stack up against other applicants and how likely you are to get into hundreds of different colleges and universities. You’ll also receive tips on how to improve your profile and your odds—all for free.

Disclaimer: This post includes content sponsored by Lumiere Education.

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

The Complete Guide to Independent Research Projects for High School Students

Indigo Research Team

If you want to get into top universities, an independent research project will give your application the competitive edge it needs.

Writing and publishing independent research during high school lets you demonstrate to top colleges and universities that you can deeply inquire into a topic, think critically, and produce original analysis. In fact, MIT features "Research" and "Maker" portfolio sections in its application, highlighting the value it places on self-driven projects.

Moreover, successfully executing high-quality research shows potential employers that you can rise to challenges, manage your time, contribute new ideas, and work independently. 

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to take on independent study ideas and succeed. You’ll learn how to develop a compelling topic, conduct rigorous research, and ultimately publish your findings.

What is an Independent Research Project?

An independent research project is a self-directed investigation into an academic question or topic that interests you. Unlike projects assigned by teachers in class, independent research will allow you to explore your curiosity and passions.

These types of projects can vary widely between academic disciplines and scientific fields, but what connects them is a step-by-step approach to answering a research question. Specifically, you will have to collect and analyze data and draw conclusions from your analysis.

For a high school student, carrying out quality research may still require some mentorship from a teacher or other qualified scholar. But the project research ideas should come from you, the student. The end goal is producing original research and analysis around a topic you care about.

Some key features that define an independent study project include:

● Formulating your own research question

● Designing the methodology

● Conducting a literature review of existing research

● Gathering and analyzing data, and

● Communicating your findings.

The topic and scope may be smaller than a professional college academic project, but the process and skills learned have similar benefits.

Why Should High School Students Do Independent Research?

High school students who engage in independent study projects gain valuable skills and experiences that benefit and serve them well in their college and career pursuits. Here's a breakdown of what you will typically acquire:

Develop Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills

Research and critical thinking are among the top 10 soft skills in demand in 2024 . They help you solve new challenges quickly and come up with alternative solutions

An independent project will give you firsthand experience with essential research skills like forming hypotheses, designing studies, collecting and analyzing data, and interpreting results. These skills will serve you well in college and when employed in any industry.

Stand Out for College Applications

With many applicants having similar GPAs and test scores, an Independent research study offer a chance to stand out from the crowd. Completing a research study in high school signals colleges that you are self-motivated and capable of high-level work. Showcasing your research process, findings, and contributions in your application essays or interviews can boost your application's strengths in top-level colleges and universities.

Earn Scholarship Opportunities

Completing an independent research project makes you a more preferred candidate for merit-based scholarships, especially in STEM fields. Many scholarships reward students who show initiative by pursuing projects outside of class requirements. Your research project ideas will demonstrate your skills and motivation to impress scholarship committees. For example, the Siemens Competition in Math, Science & Technology rewards students with original independent research projects in STEM fields. Others include the Garcia Summer Program and the BioGENEius challenge for life sciences.

Gain Subject Area Knowledge

Independent projects allow you to immerse yourself in a topic you genuinely care about beyond what is covered in the classroom. It's a chance to become an expert in something you're passionate about . You will build deep knowledge in the topic area you choose to research, which can complement what you're learning in related classes. This expertise can even help inform your career interests and goals.

Develop Time Management Skills

Time Management is the skill that lets you effectively plan and prioritize tasks and avoid procrastination. With no teacher guiding you step-by-step, independent study projects require strong time management, self-discipline, and personal responsibility – skills critical in college and adulthood.

Types of Independent Research Projects for High School Students

Understanding the different types and categories can spark inspiration if you need help finding an idea for an independent study. Topics for independent research generally fall into a few main buckets:

Science Experiments

For students interested in STEM fields, designing and carrying out science experiments is a great option. Test a hypothesis, collect data, and draw conclusions. Experiments in physics, chemistry, biology, engineering, and psychology are common choices. Science experiment is best for self-motivated students with access to lab equipment.

Social Science Surveys and Studies  

Use research methods from sociology, political science, anthropology, economics, and psychology to craft a survey study or field observation around a high school research project idea that interests you. Collect data from peers, your community, and online sources, and compile findings. Strong fit for students interested in social studies.

Literary Analysis Paper

This research category involves analyzing existing research papers, books, and articles on a specific topic. Imagine exploring the history of robots, examining the impact of social media on mental health, or comparing different interpretations of a classic novel. If you are an English enthusiast, this is an easy chance to showcase your analytical writing skills.

Programming or Engineering Project

For aspiring programmers or engineers, you can take on practical student projects that develop software programs, apps, websites, robots, electronic gadgets, or other hands-on engineering projects. This type of project will easily highlight your technical skills and interest in computer science or engineering fields in your college applications

Historical Research

History research projects will allow you to travel back and uncover the past to inform the future. This research involves analyzing historical documents, artifacts, and records to shed light on a specific event or period. For example, you can conduct independent research on the impact of a local historical figure or the evolution of fashion throughout the decades. Check to explore even more history project ideas for high school students .

Artistic and Creative Works

If you are artistic and love creating art,  you can explore ideas for independent study to produce an original film, musical composition, sculpture, painting series, fashion line, or other creative work. Alongside the tangible output, document your creative process and inspirations.

Bonus Tip: Feel free to mix different ideas for your project. For example, you could conduct a literature review on a specific historical event and follow it up with field research that interviewed people who experienced the event firsthand.

How To Conduct an Independent Research Project

Now that you have ideas for project topics that match your interests and strengths, here are the critical steps you must follow to move from mere concept to completed study.

1. Get Expert Guidance and Mentorship

As a high school student just starting out in research, it is advised to collaborate with more experienced mentors who will help you learn the ropes of research projects easily. Mentors are usually professors, post-doctoral researchers, or graduate students with significant experience in conducting independent project research and can guide you through the process. 

Specifically, your mentor will advise you on formulating research questions, designing methodologies, analyzing data, and communicating findings effectively. To quickly find mentors in your research project area of interest, enroll in an online academic research mentorship program that targets high school students. You’d be exposed to one-on-one sessions with professors and graduate students that will help you develop your research and publish your findings.

The right mentor can also help transform your independent project ideas into a study suitable for publication in relevant research journals. With their experience, mentors will guide you to follow the proper research methods and best practices. This ensures your work meets the standards required, avoiding rejection from journals. 

2. Develop a Compelling Research Question

Once you are familiar with the type of independent research best suited to your strengths and interests, as explained in the previous section, the next step is to develop a question you want to answer in that field. This is called a research question and will serve as the foundation for your entire project.

The research question will drive your entire project, so it needs to be complex enough to merit investigation but clear enough to study. Here are some ts for crafting your research question:

●  Align your research question(s) with topics you are passionate about and have some background knowledge. You will spend a significant amount of time on this question.

●  Consult with your mentor teacher or professor to get feedback and guidance on developing a feasible, meaningful question

●  Avoid overly broad questions better suited for doctoral dissertations. Narrow your focus to something manageable, but that still intrigues you.

●  Pose your research question as an actual question, like "How does social media usage affect teen mental health?" The question should lay out the key variables you'll be investigating.

●  Ensure your question and desired approach are ethically sound. You may need permission to study human subjects.

●  Conduct preliminary research to ensure your question hasn't already been answered. You want to contribute something new to your field.

With a compelling research question as your compass, you're ready to start your independent study project. Remember to stay flexible; you may need to refine the question further as your research develops.

3. Set a Timeline and Write a Proposal

After defining your research question, the next step is to map out a timeline for completing your research project. This will keep you organized and help you develop strong time management skills.

Start by creating a schedule that outlines all major milestones from start to finish. In your schedule, allow plenty of time for research, experimentation, data analysis, and compiling your report. Always remember to build in some cushion for unexpected delays.

Moreover, you can use tools like Gantt charts to design a timeline for an independent research project . Gantt charts help you visualize your research project timeline at a glance. See the video below for a tutorial on designing a Gantt chart to plan your project schedule:

[YouTube Video on How to Make a Gantt Chart: https://youtu.be/un8j6QqpYa0?si=C2_I0C_ZBXS73kZy ]

Research Proposal

To have a clear direction of the step-by-step process for your independent study, write a 1-2 page research proposal to outline your question, goals, methodology, timeline, resources, and desired outcomes. Get feedback from your mentor to improve the proposal before starting your research. 

Sticking to your timeline requires self-discipline. But strive to meet your goals and deadlines; it will build invaluable real-world skills in time and project management. With a plan in place, it's time to move forward with your research.

4. Do Your Research

This is the active phase where a student is conducting a research project. The specific method you will follow varies enormously based on your project type and field. You should have your methodology outlined in your approved research proposal already. However, most independent research has a similar basic process:

• Review existing studies : Perform a literature review to understand current knowledge on your topic and inform your own hypothesis/framework. Read relevant studies, articles, and papers.
• Create methodology materials : Design your independent research methodology for gathering data. This may involve experiments, surveys, interviews, field observations, or analysis of existing artifacts like texts or datasets.
• Permissions and Equipment :  Secure any necessary equipment and permissions. For example, if doing interviews, you'll need a recording device and consent from participants.
• Collect your data : For science projects, perform experiments and record results. For surveys, recruit respondents and compile responses. Gather enough data to draw valid conclusions.
• Analyze the data using appropriate techniques : Quantitative data may involve statistical analysis, while qualitative data requires coding for themes. Consult your mentor for direction.
• Interpret the findings : Take care not to overstate conclusions. Look for patterns and relationships that shed light on your research question. Always maintain rigorous objectivity.

While a student's project methodology and its execution are unique, ensure you follow the standard practices in your field of interest to ensure high-quality acceptable results. You can always refer to the plan in your research proposal as you diligently carry out the steps required to execute your study. Ensure you have detailed records that document all your processes.  

5. Write Your Final Paper and Presentation

Once you've completed your research, it's time to summarize and share your findings with the world by writing the final paper and designing its presentation. This involves synthesizing your work into clear, compelling reporting.

Drafting the paper will likely involve extensive writing and editing. Be prepared to go through multiple revisions to get the paper polished. Follow the standard format used in academic papers in your field;  your mentor can provide you with examples of independent study related to yours. The final product should include: 

• Abstract : A short summary of your project and conclusions.
• Introduction : Background on your topic, goals, and research questions.
• Literature Review : Summary of relevant existing research in your field.
• Methods : Detailed explanation of the methodology and process of your study.
• Results : Presentation of the data and main findings from your research. Using visual representations like charts was helpful.
• Discussion : Objective interpretation and analysis of the results and their significance.
• Conclusion : Summary of your research contributions, limitations, and suggestions for future work.
• References/Bibliography : Full citations for all sources referenced.

Adhere to clear academic writing principles to keep your writing objective and straightforward. Generally, stick to a 10-15 page length limit appropriate for student work. However, you may need to write more depending on your project type.

6. Research Presentation

After writing your research project report, you should prepare a presentation to share your research orally. Moreover, a research presentation is a tangible opportunity to practice public speaking and visual communication skills. Your presentation will include slides, handouts, demonstrations, or other aids to engage your audience and highlight key points in your independent study project.

Once you have written your final paper, you will likely want to publish it in relevant journals and publications. For detailed tips see our guide on how to publish your student research paper . Some options you have to formally publish your high school-level independent research include:

• Submitting your paper to academic journals and competitions
• Presenting at symposiums and science fairs
• Sharing on online research databases
• Adding your work to college applications

Publishing your independent project allows you to share your findings with broader scholarly and student audiences. It also helps amplify the impact of all your hard work.

Independent Research Project Examples

To spark creative ideas for independent research projects, it can be helpful to read through and examine examples of successful projects completed by other high school students in recent years. Here are some inspiring examples:

●  Using machine learning to diagnose cancer based on blood markers (bioinformatics)

●  Applying feature engineering and natural language processing to analyze Twitter data (data science)

●  Investigating connections between stress levels and HIV/AIDS progression (health science)

●  The Relationship between Color and Human Experience

These published i ndependent research project examples demonstrate the impressive research high schoolers take on using the Indigo research service with mentors from different fields. Let these case studies motivate your creative investigation and analysis of the best ideas for your project.

Need Mentorship for Your Independent Research Project?

As outlined in this guide, conducting a rigorous independent research study can be challenging without proper guidance from experts, especially for high school students. This is why partnering with an experienced research mentor is so crucial if your goal is to produce publishable research work.

With Indigo's structured research programs and ongoing expert feedback, you can elevate your high school independent study to a professional level. To get matched with the perfect research mentor aligned with your academic interests and passions, apply to Indigo Research now.

Indigo Research connects high school students with PhD-level researchers and professors who provide one-on-one mentorship through the entire research process - from refining your initial topic idea all the way through analyzing data, writing up results, and finalizing your findings.

The Hechinger Report

Covering Innovation & Inequality in Education

OPINION: Tackling research projects can help students get into top colleges and universities

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Overlooked in the trove of sensitive data released by Harvard during the affirmative action lawsuit is the outsize role that performing research can play in helping students get into elite colleges and universities.

Officials from the University of Pennsylvania and California Institute of Technology recently revealed that between a third and a half of all admitted students showcased their research projects in their applications. MIT even features “ Research” and “Maker” portfolios sections in its application.

For years, research projects have offered an important way for applicants to demonstrate qualities like grit, creativity and originality. In the wake of the Supreme Court’s decision striking down affirmative action in college admissions, research will play an even more prominent role in deciding who can attend top colleges.

Related: Supreme Court makes its historic ruling in affirmative action cases

Research projects can be both a differentiator and an equalizer in the college admissions process. Examining applicants’ research projects gives admissions officers another tool to help them select diverse incoming classes while building an accomplished student body.

Participating in research helps students from a variety of academic backgrounds showcase their intellectual potential in ways that standardized tests do not. It also allows them to demonstrate their interest in and ability to apply themselves to important problems — such as the impact of invasive iguanas in South Florida and the disproportionate representation of minority students among those labelled as having learning disabilities in a Houston school district.

In order for research to work as an equalizer, however, we need to ensure equitable access to quality research opportunities. To create a more level playing field, special care needs to be taken to ensure that the most under-resourced communities can reap the benefits that come from exposure to research.

While doing my own research at MIT and Harvard, I saw firsthand how professors are able to place their children into the labs of fellow researchers. Similarly, wealthy families that provide philanthropic funding to professors are able to get their children opportunities in the labs of their beneficiaries.

Students without family connections resort to sending cold emails to hundreds of professors and graduate students — a process that has a notoriously low success rate. While I was getting my Ph.D. at MIT, I received many more such emails than I could respond to.

Recognizing the benefits of and need for cultivating research skills pre-college, the College Board introduced the AP Research program in 2014. In the years since, the number of participating students has risen from 5,000 to 50,000 , and over 3,000 schools now offer this course.

Still, these figures represent less than 1.5 percent of all eligible high schoolers and less than 15 percent of all U.S. schools.

Scaling up research programs is resource-intensive, because students require individual attention from experts over an extended period of time. Few high schools have staff trained to supervise research projects. Even fewer can help more than two or three dozen students.

To meet the growing demand, a range of programs has emerged.

Every year a few hundred students are selected nationwide to participate in the most competitive and prestigious university-sponsored research programs. MIT’s Research Science Institute offers opportunities to “100 of the world’s most accomplished high school students.” The Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program expects around 50 students to participate this year, while Rockefeller University’s Summer Science Research Program expects to host 16 students.

While participation in these programs is free, students typically need to find their own housing, and financial aid for travel and living is limited.

Besides this handful of highly competitive free programs, there are over 100 research programs sponsored by universities that charge steep tuition, especially for nonlocal high school students. Boston University ’s Research in Science and Engineering Program charges $5,645 for commuters and $8,633 with room and board. Tufts University ’s Summer Research Experience costs $8,000 for commuters and $11,250 for the residential program. The University of California’s famous STEM-focused COSMOS program, hosted on four UC campuses, costs $4,770 and is available for California students only.

Research projects can be both a differentiator and an equalizer in the college admissions process.

In addition, in recent years, private educational organizations have begun to offer online research programs. A collection of companies, including Polygence (which I co-founded), Horizon Academic and Pioneer Academics , work with thousands of students each year. These cost-effective tech-enabled programs allow students to participate regardless of location by connecting them online with researchers at universities across the U.S.

Mentorship from these online programs typically starts at $2,700 for one-on-one instruction and $500 per person for group programs; the costs cover the expense of compensating research mentors for their time. These programs offer scholarship assistance to students in need, but financial aid generally remains limited.

Clearly, more needs to be done to level the playing field.

One promising opportunity lies at the federal level, where the National Science Foundation currently spends $838 million on undergraduate and graduate research and education. Repurposing a fraction of those funds for high school students could radically expand research opportunities for hundreds of thousands of high school students across the country.

Encouragingly, the NSF recently announced plans to award grants “to provide high school students with a meaningful research experience” in math and the physical sciences and in the social, behavioral and economic sciences . While the overall federal budget for this plan is not publicly known, the decision to support high school researchers is a step in the right direction and marks the emergence of research skills as a new frontier in pre-collegiate education.

Excellence in research is the intellectual foundation of universities, which have historically been the centers of world-changing breakthroughs, from detecting gravitational waves in collapsing black holes to inventing the mRNA technology that powers Covid vaccines.

Research skills and experience will remain invaluable for institutions and individuals alike, and in the aftermath of the Supreme Court’s decision, it will be ever-more important for students of all backgrounds to get opportunities to demonstrate their intellectual passion and potential.

Janos Perczel holds a Ph.D. in theoretical quantum physics from MIT and is the co-founder of the high school research program Polygence.

This story about research projects for high schoolers was produced by The Hechinger Report , a nonprofit, independent news organization focused on inequality and innovation in education. Sign up for Hechinger’s newsletter .

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How to Get Involved with Research in High School

Madeleine Karydes

Lead admissions expert, table of contents, research in high school.

• Where to start…

Success? We thought so.

Stay up-to-date on the latest research and college admissions trends with our blog team.

Would you like to do hands-on research while in high school? Before we start, we would like to emphasize something. This information is not just for students interested in science! Research is simply the process of discovering new trends, ideas, or phenomenon. This type of discovery can be made in any field, from engineering to history to art to political science.

This may be good news for many of our readers! However, the question still remains: how do you get involved with research, especially as a high schooler?

Where to start…

There are two main ways through which high schoolers can seek out research positions. First, you can apply to a designated research program. Second, you can reach out to researchers and/or faculty of academic institutions on your own.

Research Programs:

Many universities, government think tanks, and other laboratories or academic institutions have established summer research and volunteer programs for high school students. These programs often require applications that are due by January or February, for programs that start in June of that year. The applications often involve essays and recommendation letters, in which the program administrators will use to match you to a particular research faculty upon acceptance.

Examples of some research programs include RSI hosted by MIT for students interested in mathematics, science, and computer science, SIMR hosted by Stanford for students interested in the biomedical sciences, and a program hosted by the Baker Institute at Rice University for students interested in political science.

Venturing Out on Your Own:

Unlike in the established programs described above, you have more flexibility and freedom to choose which faculty you work with when finding research opportunities on your own. Here is a game plan you can follow:

• Define areas of research that you find interesting. We recommend that you keep your interests relatively broad (e.g. Renaissance literature or synthetic biology)
• Identify institutions that supports research in the fields you defined above. You can reach out to universities, hospitals, government think tanks/institutions, and even companies, to name a few.
• Create a generic cover letter addressed to the head of a laboratory or research group, including template sentences that allow you to fill in specifics about the specific research that a particular group does (e.g. “Your research on ______ intrigues me because ______, and I would love to contribute to ______ project”).
• Update your CV/Resume, making sure that it states your credentials and any relevant coursework or previous experiences.

Now comes the part you’ve been working towards…

• Emphasizing that you will work on a voluntary basis (or in other words, for free/without pay) can often help you!
• Email as many researchers as you can, because the yield rate for high school students is often low (again, researchers are very busy)
• If you don’t hear back in two weeks, you can send a follow-up email by replying to your original email. If they still do not respond, move on and email other labs.

If you receive offers from multiple labs or research groups, you can consider the following factors to help you make a final decision:

• Interesting Project? Talk to the researcher about the project you will be working on, and make sure that it is one that is exciting to you and that you can give your full commitment to. The researcher took a chance on you by offering you the position, so you want to give your 100%!
• Interpersonal Dynamic? Go meet members of the lab and research group, and make sure that you feel comfortable with them. Remember, you will be needing their help and the more questions you ask, the better your work will be. If you don’t feel comfortable with the lab, it will not be a good learning experience for you and your work can suffer.
• Funding and Publication Record? Research grants and publication records are often public information that can be found in online databases. Check to see if the lab or research group publishes in high-quality journals, as this reflects the quality of the work that they do. Similarly, make sure that the lab is sufficiently funded, as this can impact the overall work environment and the amount of resources you will have at your disposal.

We help high school students find research opportunities and apply to summer programs. If you are interested in our college counseling program, click below.

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Articles & Advice > Majors and Academics > Blog

Easy Ways to Find Research Experience in High School

Research experience in high school is one sure-fire way to impress colleges. Here are the different research avenues high school students can take advantage of.

by Lindsey Conger College Counselor and Tutor, Moon Prep

Last Updated: Mar 16, 2023

Originally Posted: Jun 1, 2021

With applicant pools at Harvard, Columbia, and Dartmouth increasing by more than 30% for the Class of 2025, it’s clear that colleges have become increasingly more competitive. That’s why having a strong résumé that stands out is crucial for students who are applying to highly selective colleges or direct medical (BS/MD) programs. One way to do so is by gaining hands-on research experience—but where can you find these opportunities that are usually reserved for older students? Here are three possible pathways for high schoolers to gain the valuable experience they need to impress colleges.  

High school research pathways

Students should first look at what their high school offers; some schools have a research class like the Advanced Placement (AP) Capstone program, which consists of two courses: AP Seminar and AP Research. Students in the program are mentored on completing research, writing a thesis paper, and making a presentation. If this AP course isn’t available at your high school, you can also participate in science fairs or ask a high school teacher to guide you through an independent research project.

Research with a college professor

Students might want to work with an experienced mentor like a college professor who can lead you through the research process, connect you with resources, and help analyze data. To find a college professor willing to assist, try reaching out to local faculty members who have similar research interests—preferably those who work at a college you’d be interested in attending. In the email, you should include your résumé to help the professor get to know you and your interests better. Not all professors have the time and capability to have a high school student come into their lab to learn, so be prepared to email multiple faculty members and follow up to secure a position. Being flexible and willing to do whatever it takes can also help high schoolers gain hands-on research experience. 

Related: A Step-by-Step Guide for an Effective Research Paper

Attend a research program

For students who prefer more structure, attending a STEM research camp can be a great way to get hands-on experience. Even better, you can earn college credit through some programs. One example is Rising Researchers , a virtual research program that lets students get hands-on experiences while earning two college credits. Students are mailed a microscope and lab kit so you can complete your own research at home. During the four-week course, you’ll learn how to conduct research on microbiology from a leading scientist at the University of Massachusetts Amherst .

Take research to the next level with a passion project

After completing your research, you should always consider how you can take your accomplishments to the next level. For example, if you’ve written a research paper, try getting it published in a high school research journal. Or you could choose to publish a book or guide on Kindle about your research. Another option is to run an informational campaign on social media or start a podcast to spread awareness about your research. 

Related:  How to Strengthen Your College Application During COVID-19

By completing research while you’re still in high school, you can distinguish yourself from other applicants and secure a spot at the most competitive universities. Don’t let yourself fall behind in the increasingly competitive admission world when there are plenty of opportunities out there to help you stand out to colleges.

Did you know you could get scholarships for your research experience to help pay for college? Start looking for them now with our Scholarship Search tool !

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About Lindsey Conger

Lindsey Conger is a college counselor and tutor at Moon Prep .

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High School to College Transition

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Discuss critical questions for information literacy, find lesson plans & activities, read articles about the high school to college transition, associations and standards, information literacy news.

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Discover tips and activities that address the research struggles of first-year college students. 

Choosing a topic, creating an argument:, students struggle to choose their own research topic and browse for ideas. they take a stance before researching and get frustrated when sources don't fit their argument. they often choose a different topic or rely on less credible sources..

• Provide opportunities for students to choose their own research topics.
• Introduce students to the "Browse Issues" feature in the Opposing Viewpoints database and websites like ProCon.org  or The New York Times  Prompts for Argumentative Writing .
• Guide students through the exploration phase of research. Not knowing is okay.
• Differentiate between writing a report (specific answers) and a research paper (asking questions, synthesizing information, considering multiple perspectives).  
• Hands-On Activities: Creating 21st Century Superheroes  or Take a Stand

Awareness of information sources.

Students are reluctant to go beyond google and are overwhelmed by information choices and quantities..

• ​ Help students understand that not everything can be found on Google. Provide examples.
• Create opportunities for research using databases and books. 
• Explain the difference between popular and scholarly information . 
• Practice using advanced Google search techniques and Google Scholar to narrow web results.  
• Hands-on activities:  The Google Bucket  or Database Teach-In  or  Scholarly versus Popular

Turning a topic into a search. ​​

Students find it difficult to find the right words when searching for information online. they don't understand that searching a database is not like searching google. ​.

• Take time to brainstorm search terms, synonyms, and different ways of describing or saying the same thing.
• Practice searching for articles using databases. Explore search features and limiters.  
• Search a topic multiple times using different words on the Web and using multiple databases. Discover which words and which sources retrieve the best results. Use successful search results to find more more search terms (what words does the article use to describe the topic?).
• Hands-on activities:  Synonym Scattergories  or  Furry Crab  or  Database Searching Research Activity

Understanding research as a process.

Students aren't aware of the need to search again and again, refining their searches as they discover new questions and synthesize new information ..

• Demonstrate the phases of the research process. Emphasize that research takes time and energy.
• Use concept mapping to show how research can take you in different directions.
• Hands-on activities: Summarizing Controversial Perspectives

Ability to evaluate and understand information. 

Students are over-confident in their ability to evaluate information and determine whether or not a source is credible. .

• Use the Critical Thinking Questions about Information Literacy in this guide as a source for discussion and exploration. 
• Discuss key concepts and critical thinking questions related to news literacy and data literacy . 
• Hands-on activities: Evaluating  the Interwebz with Think/Square/Share  or Evaluating the Interwebz with Designated Skeptics  or  Scholarly versus Popula r or B lue Feed, Red Feed

Knowing where to go for help.

Students believe that they are expected to "know" already, or that they have to figure everything out on their own..

• ​ Provide students with information on where they can go to get research help at school, by visiting WCC's Bailey Library, or from their local public library. Let them know that librarians will help them at any stage of the research process. 

Head, A.J. (2013, December). Learning the Ropes: How freshmen conduct course research once they enter college.  Project Information Literacy, Passage Studies Research Report .

Donham, J. (2014, January). College Ready - What can we learn from first-year college assignments? An examination of assignments in Iowa Colleges and Universities.  School Library Research, 17.  

• Research Struggles of First-Year Students

Help students think critically about research.

(Click on a topic to view questions)

Authority is Constructed & Contextual

• ​ Why and when should you trust an information source?
• Who created this information? What is their level of credibility?
• Is the author an expert? Does the author need to be an expert in this context?
• Is the information biased? Is it opinion or fact?
• When searching for information online, how do you decide whether the information you find is good or bad?

Information Creation as a Process

• Where is the first place you go when you have a research question? What kinds of problems do you run into? Why?
• Is everything available on the Web for free (books, articles, information)? Why not? What's missing?
• ​ How do you figure out what kind of information you are looking for? 
• How many different sources of information can you think of? How do you know when an information source is the best choice for your information need?
• How can information be packaged and distributed?
• Is some information created for specific populations? How does that change its packaging and distribution? (Consider social media, blogs, newspapers, magazines, books, academic journals)
• Do you have a bias for or against certain types of information? 

Information has Value

• ​ How do you cite information sources? Why is it important to cite sources? Why do citations follow a particular format? Does it matter?
• How do you avoid plagiarism? Do you have any questions about plagiarism? What is the difference between plagiarism and paraphrasing, summarizing, or citing?
• In what ways can information be bound by a license or copyright? When are you allowed to reuse information?
• How do you properly use graphics or videos you find on the web? How do you know if graphics or videos are licensed for reuse?
• What is public domain? What is the creative commons? 

Research as Inquiry

• How do you broaden or narrow a research topic?
• Have you ever struggled to find information on a topic and decided that there is nothing on your topic and you have to find a new topic? What other strategies could you use? 
• If a topic you are researching is part of a debate, how do you research multiple viewpoints?
• What can you do if you hit a dead end when researching a topic?

Scholarship as a Conversation

• ​ Is there more than one perspective on a given topic?
• Who is contributing to the conversation? Are some voices louder than others? Why? 
• Does information on a given topic change over time? Why might it be important to seek out the most up-to-date information on a given topic?
• How do you or could you contribute to the conversation on a given topic?

Searching as Strategic Exploration

• Describe an experience in which you were not able to find the information you needed? How did you feel? How much time did you spend looking for that information? What could you do differently?
• Have you ever experienced the feeling of information overload? When and why? What steps could you take to avoid information overload when researching a question or topic?
• How do you turn a research question into a successful search for information?
• When do you feel most confident and successful in finding the information you need?
• How would you describe your research process? Describe the steps you take when your research is most successful.  ​

Look at the  Research Toolkit Tab  for even more ideas you can take into your classroom. 

• Critical Thinking Questions about Information Literacy

Find activities that can be adapted for your high school lesson plans.

• ACRL Information Literacy Sandbox Research activities created by academic librarians.
• CORA: Community of Online Research Assignments Sort activities and lesson plans by topic, discipline, or grade.
• Data Literacy for High School Librarians University of Michigan project offering webinars and lessons.
• The Google Bucket Critical thinking activity from the University of Tennessee - Chattanooga.
• Hands-On Learning for the iGen Student Fun, interactive activities from Ferris State - Kahoot, Family Feud, Scattergories, and more.
• RAILS - Rubric Assessment of Information Literacy Skills Rubrics for incorporating information literacy skills into student research assignments.
• S.O.S. for Information Literacy Award-winning "peer-reviewed lesson plans, handouts, presentations, videos and other resources to enhance the teaching of information literacy (K-16)."
• Research Activity: Using Databases Walk students through the pre-research process and use Michigan eLibrary databases to find articles.
• College Ready—What Can We Learn from First-Year College Assignments?
• The First Year: College Readiness
• How Teens do Research in the Digital World
• Learning the Ropes: How Freshmen Conduct Course Research Once They Enter College
• More Professors Say Undergraduates Need to Hone Research Abilities, Survey Finds
• Survey: Most Profs Find HS Grads Unready for College or Work
• Three short months: the college transition - Should school librarians prepare students for the college transition?
• A Transition Checklist for High School Seniors
• American Association of School Librarians
• Association of College and Research Libraries
• MAME - Michigan Association for Media in Education
• Michigan Academic Standards
• Partnership for 21st Century Skills
• School Library Journal's Information Literacy Blogs Lesson ideas, news, and helpful online resources.
• KnowledgeQuest The Journal of the American Association of School Librarians. Information literacy, STEAM, intellectual freedom, and more.

Borrow books from the Bailey Library or use MeLCat  to have them delivered to your local public library.

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• Last Updated: Dec 11, 2020 4:30 PM
• URL: https://libguides.wccnet.edu/high-school-transition

Engage students as they explore and evaluate colleges.

With appily, the go-to resource for all things college, you can help guide your students through the college search and selection process., get our free college research project by clicking the button. then bookmark this page to return for some of our helpful student-focused content below. .

For an accompanying grading rubric aligned with Common Core learning standards to support this project, click to download here.

High School Resume: A Step-by-Step Guide

In this popular guide, we walk students through the process of creating a high school resume and share an example of one.

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The college planning and search process can be overwhelming, so we break it down step by step in this guide. Students can use the checklist to stay on track. 

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Call for High School Projects

Machine learning for social impact .

The Thirty-Eighth Annual Conference on Neural Information Processing Systems (NeurIPS 2024) is an interdisciplinary conference that brings together researchers in machine learning, neuroscience, statistics, optimization, computer vision, natural language processing, life sciences, natural sciences, social sciences, and other adjacent fields. 

This year, we invite high school students to submit research papers on the topic of machine learning for social impact.  A subset of finalists will be selected to present their projects virtually and will have their work spotlighted on the NeurIPS homepage.  In addition, the leading authors of up to five winning projects will be invited to attend an award ceremony at NeurIPS 2024 in Vancouver.  

Each submission must describe independent work wholly performed by the high school student authors.  We expect each submission to highlight either demonstrated positive social impact or the potential for positive social impact using machine learning. Application areas may include but are not limited to the following:

• Agriculture
• Climate change
• Homelessness
• Food security
• Mental health
• Water quality

Authors will be asked to confirm that their submissions accord with the NeurIPS code of conduct and the NeurIPS code of ethics .

Submission deadline: All submissions must be made by June 27th, 4pm EDT. The system will close after this time, and no further submissions will be possible.

We are using OpenReview to manage submissions. Papers should be submitted here . Submission will open June 1st.  Submissions under review will be visible only to their assigned program committee. We will not be soliciting comments from the general public during the reviewing process. Anyone who plans to submit a paper as an author or a co-author will need to create (or update) their OpenReview profile by the full paper submission deadline. 

Formatting instructions:   All submissions must be in PDF format. Submissions are limited to four content pages , including all figures and tables; additional pages containing only references are allowed. You must format your submission using the NeurIPS 2024 HighSchool style file using the “preprint” option for non-anonymous submission. The maximum file size for submissions is 50MB. Submissions that violate the NeurIPS style (e.g., by decreasing margins or font sizes) or page limits may be rejected without further review.  Papers may be rejected without consideration of their merits if they fail to meet the submission requirements, as described in this document. 

Mentorship and collaboration:  The submitted research can be a component of a larger research endeavor involving external collaborators, but the submission should describe only the authors’ contributions.  The authors can also have external mentors but must disclose the nature of the mentorship.  At the time of submission, the authors will be asked to describe the involvement of any mentors or external collaborators and to distinguish mentor and collaborator contributions from those of the authors.  In addition, the authors may (optionally) include an acknowledgements section acknowledging the contributions of others following the content sections of the submission. The acknowledgements section will not count toward the submission page limit.

Proof of high school attendance: Submitting authors will also be asked to upload a signed letter, on school letterhead, from each author’s high school confirming that the author was enrolled in high school during the 2023-2024 academic year.

Supplementary artifacts:   In their four content pages, authors may link  to supplementary artifacts including videos, working demonstrations, digital posters, websites, or source code.  For source code, this can be done by, for example, uploading the code to a free  https://github.com/  repository and then including a hyperlink to that repository in the submitted paper. Data files that are not too large can also be uploaded to a GitHub repository, and larger files can be uploaded to a free research data repository like  https://dataverse.harvard.edu/ . Please do not link to additional text. All such supplementary material should be wholly created by the authors and should directly support the submission content. 

Review process:   Each submission will be reviewed by anonymous referees. The authors, however, should not be anonymous. No written feedback will be provided to the authors.  

Use of Large Language Models (LLMs): We welcome authors to use any tool that is suitable for preparing high-quality papers and research. However, we ask authors to keep in mind two important criteria. First, we expect papers to fully describe their methodology.  Any tool that is important to that methodology, including the use of LLMs, should be described also. For example, authors should mention tools (including LLMs) that were used for data processing or filtering, visualization, facilitating or running experiments, or proving theorems. It may also be advisable to describe the use of LLMs in implementing the method (if this corresponds to an important, original, or non-standard component of the approach). Second, authors are responsible for the entire content of the paper, including all text and figures, so while authors are welcome to use any tool they wish for writing the paper, they must ensure that all text is correct and original.

Dual submissions:  Submissions that are substantially similar to papers that the authors have previously published or submitted in parallel to other peer-reviewed venues with proceedings or journals may not be submitted to NeurIPS. Papers previously presented at workshops or science fairs are permitted, so long as they did not appear in a conference proceedings (e.g., CVPRW proceedings), a journal, or a book.  However, submissions will not be published in formal proceedings, so work submitted to this call may be published elsewhere in the future. Plagiarism is prohibited by the NeurIPS Code of Conduct .

Paper checklist: In order to improve the rigor and transparency of research submitted to and published at NeurIPS, authors are required to complete a paper checklist . The paper checklist is intended to help authors reflect on a wide variety of issues relating to responsible machine learning research, including reproducibility, transparency, research ethics, and societal impact. The checklist does not count towards the page limit and will be entered in OpenReview.

Contact:   [email protected]

10 Criminology Research Ideas for High School Students

By Surya Ramanathan

Johns Hopkins University, B.S. in Applied Mathematics and Statistics, B.S. in Economics, and M.S. in Applied Economics

5 minute read

In the dynamic landscape of education, empowering high school students to explore their passions and delve into unique subjects is crucial. Criminology, the study of crime and its causes, offers an exciting avenue for young minds to engage in critical thinking and research. In this blog, we’ll explore why high schoolers should consider studying criminology and present ten original research topic ideas that can ignite their curiosity and passion for this fascinating field. 

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Polygence pairs you with an expert mentor in your area of passion. Together, you work to create a high quality research project that is uniquely your own.

Why Study Criminology in High School

Understanding criminology is more than just unraveling the complexities of crime: it’s about fostering critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deeper awareness of society. Here are a few reasons why high school students should consider studying criminology or taking a criminology internship:

Real-World Relevance: Criminology is deeply connected to the real-world issues that shape our communities. Studying it can provide valuable insights into social problems and potential solutions. 

Career Exploration: Exploring criminology at a young age can help students discover potential career paths in law enforcement, criminal justice, psychology, and more. 

Empowerment: By understanding the facts that contribute to crime, students can actively engage in discussions about creating safer and more just societies through criminal law. 

10 Criminology Project Ideas for High School Students

#1 the impact of social media on youth crime.

As you develop this research paper, you will have the opportunity to explore the intricate relationship between social media and youth crime by investigating how online interactions and content influence adolescent behavior. Examine patterns of cyberbullying, digital harassment, and the dissemination of criminal activities through social platforms. 

#2 The Psychology of Criminal Profiling

Delve into the intriguing world of criminal profiling by dissecting the psychological aspects that underpin this investigative technique. Examine the effectiveness and limitations of profiling methods, considering the impact of individual and cultural differences. Explore related research topics like the ethical implications of profiling and propose improvements or alternative approaches to enhance the accuracy and ethical integrity of criminal profiling practices.

#3 Effects of Video Games on Aggressive Behavior

Video games have long been the subject of scrutiny for their potential impacts on youths’ brains. This is a criminal justice topic where you can conduct a nuanced exploration of the correlation between violent video games and aggression. Dive into psychological theories, examining how exposure to virtual violence may influence real-world conduct and even lead to criminal behavior. Consider age, individual differences, and gaming habits to provide a comprehensive analysis. 

#4 The Role of Family Structure in Juvenile Delinquency

Investigate the intricate connections between family dynamics and juvenile delinquency. Your research project can analyze how factors such as parental involvement, family structure, and socioeconomic status impact the likelihood of juvenile involvement in criminal activities. Explore potential intervention strategies, focusing on strengthening familial bonds and providing support systems to reduce the risk of delinquent behavior among adolescents. 

#5 Cybersecurity and Digital Crimes

Embark on an exploration of the digital frontier by investigating the rise of cybercrimes and their multifaceted impact. Examine various forms of digital criminal activities, from hacking to online fraud, and assess their implications for individuals and businesses. Propose strategies for blistering cybersecurity awareness and preventive measures, emphasizing the importance of digital literacy and responsible online behavior in today’s interconnected world. 

#6 White-Collar Crime and Corporate Ethics

Uncover the ethical dimensions of white-collar crime within corporate environments by examining cases of financial misconduct, fraud, and corruption. Explore the role of corporate culture, governance structures, and individual decision-making in fostering or preventing white-collar crimes. Propose measures for enhancing corporate ethics, transparency, and accountability, contributing to discussions on creating a more ethical and responsible business landscape. 

#7 The Impact of Economic Inequality on Crime Rates

Explore the intricate relationship between economic inequality and crime rates. Analyze statistical data to understand how disparities in wealth distribution may contribute to criminal behavior. Examine the role of socioeconomic factors, education, and employment opportunities in shaping crime patterns. Your research can provide valuable insights into the systemic issues that perpetuate criminality, paving the way for informed discussions on socioeconomic reforms and policies that address the root causes of criminal activity. 

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#8 Criminal Justice System and Mental Health

Investigate the intersection of mental health issues and the criminal justice system. Examine how mental health conditions are addressed within the legal framework, from arrest to incarceration. Explore alternative approaches, such as mental health courts and diversion programs, aiming to provide individuals with mental health challenges appropriate support and treatment. Your research can contribute to the ongoing dialogue on fostering a more compassionate and effective criminal justice reform system for individuals with mental health needs.

#9 The History of Criminal Justice Reform

Trace the historical evolution of criminal justice reform, exploring pivotal moments, key legislation, and societal shifts that have shaped the criminal justice ethics landscape. Analyze the successes and challenges of past reform efforts, considering their impact on issues such as mass incarceration, sentencing practices, juvenile justice, hasty criminal investigations, and policing. 

#10 Public Perception of Organized Crime

Conduct surveys to understand how public perception of organized crime aligns with crime rates. Explore factors influencing public opinion, such as media coverage, community experiences, and demographic variables. Analyze the impact of perception on community engagement, policy preferences, and trust in law enforcement. 

Embarking on criminology or psychology research projects in high school can be a transformative experience, offering students the chance to engage with real-world issues and contribute to the collective understanding of crime and its complexities. If you’re interested in pursuing any of these projects or your ideas, work with us at Polygence to bring your criminal law research ideas to fruition!

If you’re interested in criminology law, check out our other articles on law career paths and projects !

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Research Projects

Strengthening community colleges grants program evaluation.

March 2024–February 2029

Researchers will conduct a mixed-methods evaluation of the implementation and effectiveness of the fourth round of the Strengthening Community Colleges Training Grants Program (SCC4), which seeks to build community colleges’ capacity to equitably support students in obtaining good jobs and meet employers’ needs for skilled workers by enhancing sector-based career pathways programs.

Ohio Strong Start in Science

February 2024–January 2028

The Ohio Strong Start in Science project (OhioSSS) will provide colleges and their science faculty support to review placement procedures, redesign curriculum, and institute academic supports in introductory chemistry, biology and human anatomy and physiology courses. 

Mobile-Enabled Learning Supports in Corequisite Courses in Louisiana

May 2024–April 2027

This project is examining the potential of mobile-enabled learning (or m-learning). The project will also highlight how individual colleges can develop promising innovations that can be rigorously tested in pilot studies before being scaled across additional institutions, leading to systemwide reform.

Developmental Education Reform Equity Incubator

March 2024–February 2027

This project addresses equity gaps in developmental education reforms and seeks interventions to generate larger and longer-lasting effects for underserved students.

An Evaluation of a Toolkit to Support Postsecondary Learning With Technology

January 2022–January 2027

The Regional Education Laboratory (REL) Northwest, led by WestEd, is creating a toolkit to facilitate the adoption of the recommendations in a practice guide on technology and postsecondary instruction from the Institute of Education Sciences at the Department of Education. In this project, CCRC will evaluate a professional learning component of the toolkit.

Understanding the Effects of a Cost-of-Living Grant Pilot on Community College Student Success

September 2022–August 2026

In this project, researchers will use a randomized controlled trial (RCT) to evaluate whether a cost-of-living grant for low-income community college students increases college retention and completion.

Postsecondary Teaching with Technology Collaborative

July 2021–June 2026

The Postsecondary Teaching with Technology Collaborative works with students, faculty, technology developers, and other researchers to improve our knowledge of how college and university instructors can effectively use technology to help students develop self-directed learning skills in online courses.

How Community College Students Choose Programs of Study

January 2023–December 2025

Using surveys and interviews with students, faculty, and staff, as well as administrative data, this project will explore students’ decision-making about programs of study and what perceptions they have about these programs over the course of their college careers.

Center for the Analysis of Postsecondary Readiness (CAPR)

July 2014–December 2025

CAPR carries out research on innovative approaches to remedial assessment, placement, and instruction in collaboration with social policy research organization MDRC.

Unlocking Opportunity: The Post-Graduation Success and Equity Network

June 2022–November 2025

In this project, CCRC and the Aspen Institute College Excellence Program will collaborate with 10 community colleges or districts to improve their students’ post-college outcomes.

Accelerating Recovery in Community Colleges Network

September 2022–August 2025

The Accelerating Recovery in Community Colleges Network (ARCC Network) is studying strategies that community colleges are using to combat enrollment drops, learning loss, and other negative effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Over the three years of the project, the network will work closely with community colleges and college systems to identify and evaluate programs and policies designed to bring students back to college and accelerate their academic progress.

Does Federal Work-Study Work for Students?

June 2019–August 2025

In this project, CCRC will investigate the effects of Federal Work-Study (FWS) at a large, urban, public postsecondary system using a randomized lottery among equally eligible FWS applicants.

Virginia Workforce Recovery: A Research Partnership to Strengthen G3

CCRC is partnering with the Virginia Community College System (VCCS) and the University of Pennsylvania to examine and improve Get A Skill, Get A Job, Get Ahead (G3), VCCS’s pandemic workforce recovery initiative.

Increasing the Returns to Dual Enrollment for States, Colleges, and Students: Research-Based Guidance and Data Tools for State System and Institutional Leaders

September 2023–August 2025

Working with Dr. Lauren Schudde and her team at the University of Texas at Austin, CCRC researchers are examining which types of dual enrollment deliver the strongest educational and economic returns, in which states dual enrollment is more effective, and opportunities for greater impact.

Policy Lab: Socioeconomic Mobility at the College-to-Work Transition

July 2019–June 2025

The CCRC–City University of New York (CUNY) policy lab is developing broader and more nuanced measures of post-college success; studying what factors predict successful transitions from college into the labor force; and evaluating the impact of specific interventions and experiences that may improve post-college transitions, particularly for disadvantaged groups.

Paving the Way to Equitable, Adequate, and Effective Community College Funding

August 2021–December 2024

This project will examine community college funding policy and institutional resources allocation in Texas, California, and Ohio.

Improving Policy and Practice for Adult Education English Learners

January 2023–December 2024

This project explores the backgrounds and goals of adult education ESL students and the barriers they face navigating long ESL course sequences and complicated performance requirements. It will also examine how City College Chicago campuses are reforming ESL, how federal and state policy related to ESL courses is helping or hindering student outcomes, and the perspectives of adult education ESL instructors.

Building a Sustainable Future: The Role of Community Colleges in Combating Climate Change and Preparing Students for the Green Economy

September 2023–December 2024

To build a sustainable future, community colleges are aligning training programs to the opportunities and demands of a green economy. However, research has yet to document the actions community colleges are taking nationally to prepare students for jobs in the green economy

Identifying Best Practices to Close Equity Gaps in Community Colleges

July 2023–December 2024

Working with Complete College America, CCRC researchers will identify colleges closing equity gaps between students of color and their peers. This project is intended to highlight opportunities to integrate student success reforms with culturally sustaining offerings.

Increasing Community College Participation in Applied Learning Activities

June 2023–September 2024

This study will identify what topics colleges most want to learn about and what they see as their most pressing challenges. The findings will be used to make recommendations regarding what applied research organizations, intermediaries, technical assistance providers, and funders can do to design and implement applied learning activities that will do a better job of attracting and addressing the needs of underserved colleges.

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Having instructors who are from all over the country and experience in teaching not only in high school but also college has been invaluable... Taking a CTY class isn't just about getting the grades; it’s about broadening our minds.

His teacher was amazed after he went to CTY last year. He got straight A’s. He’s going to be in a high honors class, and CTY has helped him prepare for that. He used to be like, ‘Mom I don’t want to do that.’ Now he’s like, ‘Mom, I think I’m ready.'

Maggie has now taken more than 15 CTY courses. She has grown exponentially, thinks well independently, uses and schedules her time wisely, and has gained boundless confidence as a result of her CTY courses.

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The Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth recently celebrated a happy milestone: The CTY Baltimore Emerging Scholars Program turned 10. Baltimore City Public School elementary students in the free, school-based enrichment program celebrated with their families on Johns Hopkins University's Homewood campus May 19 with a certificate ceremony, guest speakers, a photo booth, and cupcakes. Founded in 2014, Emerging Scholars brings innovative, hands-on coursework to 400 city schools students with high academic potential annually. Read the article on the JHU Hub .

Our dedication to supporting young scholars goes far beyond the classroom. Since CTY first began in 1979, we’ve been at the forefront of research in gifted education—equipping educators to better identify, serve, and challenge their most advanced students.

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100 Research Topic Ideas for High School Students

By Eric Eng

Searching for high school research topics? Finding the perfect subject can unlock a world of knowledge and opportunity. This initial step is crucial for students who aim to stand out in their academic pursuits.

Don’t worry if you’re unsure where to start. We’ll guide you through top subject domains and offer specific topics you can pursue. We’ll also give tips on tackling these topics, ensuring your research is both meaningful and impactful.

Mathematics

Mathematics is a universal language that underpins the logical and structural foundation of the world and various phenomena within it.

Mathematical research allows you to apply theoretical knowledge to solve real-world problems, from technology to natural sciences. This not only sharpens your analytical skills but also prepares you for a wide range of career paths that require rigorous problem-solving capabilities.

Here are five specific high school mathematics research topics and how you can approach them:

1. Investigate the applications of graph theory in analyzing social networks and online communities.

Graph theory offers insights into complex network structures. You can apply it to understand the dynamics and connectivity of social networks, which is valuable for data analysis and internet technology.

2. Study the mathematical principles behind cryptocurrency and blockchain technology.

Cryptocurrency relies on complex mathematics for security and functionality. Your research could delve into the cryptographic algorithms that underpin blockchain, contributing to a deeper understanding of digital currencies.

3. Analyze the patterns and trends in stock market data using mathematical modeling and algorithms.

The stock market is influenced by numerous variables. By employing mathematical models, you can predict market trends, aiding in finance and economic analysis.

4. Investigate the mathematical properties of chaos theory and its applications in various fields.

Chaos theory explains how small changes can lead to significant effects. Researching this can illuminate its applications in weather forecasting, engineering, and beyond, showcasing the unpredictability of complex systems.

5. Explore the mathematics of climate modeling and predicting extreme weather events.

Climate modeling is crucial for understanding future environmental changes. You can study how mathematical equations and simulations are used to predict weather patterns, contributing to efforts in climate research and policy-making.

Physics , a cornerstone of natural sciences, unlocks the mysteries of the universe, from the smallest particles to the vastness of space.

If you’re considering a major in physics or engineering, engaging in research within this domain can significantly enhance your understanding of fundamental principles and their applications in technology and innovation. This experience not only prepares you for advanced studies but also positions you to contribute to cutting-edge developments in science and industry.

Here are five specific high school physics research topics and how you can approach them:

6. Investigate the properties and applications of quantum computing in modern technology.

Quantum computing promises to revolutionize computing power. You can explore its theoretical foundations or practical applications, highlighting its potential to solve complex problems faster than traditional computers.

7. Study the behavior of materials under extreme conditions, such as high pressure and temperature.

Understanding materials under extreme conditions can lead to breakthroughs in manufacturing and space exploration. Your research could focus on how these conditions alter material properties and potential industrial applications.

8. Analyze the dynamics of gravitational waves and their detection methods.

The study of gravitational waves opens new windows into observing cosmic events. You can research how these waves are detected and what they tell us about the universe, contributing to the field of astrophysics.

9. Investigate the physics of renewable energy technologies like solar panels and wind turbines.

As the world moves towards renewable energy, understanding the physics behind these technologies is crucial. Your research can delve into how they work, their efficiency, and ways to improve them, supporting the transition to sustainable energy.

10. Explore the principles behind the emerging field of topological physics and its potential applications.

Topological physics, a frontier in theoretical physics, offers insights into matter states and conductivity. By studying its principles, you could uncover new materials or technologies, impacting electronics and quantum computing.

Chemistry is at the heart of understanding the physical world, from the molecular level to complex chemical reactions that affect our daily lives.

Diving into research on chemical reactions and their applications can pave the way for innovations in health, industry, and environmental conservation. Engaging in such research not only deepens your understanding of chemistry but also enhances your problem-solving and analytical skills, crucial for a successful career in science.

Here are five specific high school chemistry research topics and how you can approach them:

11. Develop eco-friendly alternatives to single-use plastics through chemical synthesis.

This topic addresses the urgent need for sustainable materials. You can explore the creation of biodegradable polymers, potentially making a significant environmental impact.

12. Study the chemical composition and health effects of vaping products

With the rising use of vaping, understanding its implications is vital. Your research could involve analyzing the chemicals in vape liquids and their effects on health.

13. Analyze the mechanisms of antibiotic resistance in bacteria and potential solutions.

Antibiotic resistance is a growing threat to public health. You can investigate how bacteria develop resistance and explore new strategies to combat it, such as novel antibiotics or treatment methods.

14. Investigate the synthesis and properties of novel materials for energy storage applications.

Advancements in energy storage are key to renewable energy success. Your work could focus on creating or improving materials used in batteries and supercapacitors, contributing to cleaner energy solutions.

15. Explore the chemistry behind the taste and aroma of fermented foods and beverages.

This topic combines chemistry with food science. You can study the fermentation process and how it affects flavor profiles, which is relevant for both culinary arts and food industry innovations.

Biology covers the essential study of life and the interactions within ecosystems, highlighting the importance of conservation, health, and sustainability.

Choosing a research topic in this domain is strategic if you’re planning to major in related fields in college, as it provides a solid foundation for future studies and research opportunities. It not only prepares you for advanced coursework but also equips you with a deep understanding of critical global issues, enhancing your ability to contribute to solutions in your future career.

Here are five specific high school biology research topics and how you can approach them:

16. Investigate the impact of microplastics on marine ecosystems and wildlife.

This topic is crucial due to increasing pollution levels. You can collect samples from water bodies to analyze microplastic concentration and study its effects on marine life.

17. Study the role of gut microbiota in human health and disease.

Relevant because of the microbiota’s significant influence on human wellness. Your research can involve reviewing existing literature on gut flora and its relationship with diseases.

18. Analyze the effects of climate change on species distribution and biodiversity.

With climate change altering habitats, this research is vital. You can use climate models to predict changes in species distributions and biodiversity.

19. Explore the potential of gene editing technologies like CRISPR for agricultural improvement.

Gene editing holds promise for solving food security issues. You can research CRISPR applications in crops to enhance yield, resilience, and nutritional value.

20. Investigate the ecological consequences of urbanization on local flora and fauna.

Urbanization poses threats to ecosystems. Your research can focus on how urban expansion impacts local wildlife and plant life, possibly through field observations or spatial analysis.

Earth Sciences

Earth sciences are critical for comprehending the planet’s physical processes and their implications for life and the environment.

Research in this field not only deepens your understanding of Earth’s dynamics but also equips you with the knowledge to address environmental challenges and contribute to sustainable resource management. This academic foundation is essential for careers in geoscience , energy, and disaster mitigation, where you can make significant contributions to understanding and protecting our planet.

Here are five specific high school earth science research topics and how you can approach them:

21. Investigate the relationship between climate change and glacial retreat in polar regions.

Glacial retreat has global impacts. You can study this phenomenon to understand how climate change affects polar ice, contributing to sea level rise and ecosystem changes.

22. Study the impacts of ocean acidification on marine ecosystems and coral reef degradation.

Ocean health is vital. By analyzing acidification effects, you can reveal its impact on marine life and coral reefs, informing conservation and mitigation strategies.

23. Analyze the effects of hydraulic fracturing (fracking) on seismic activity and groundwater contamination.

Fracking raises environmental concerns. Your research could examine its link to earthquakes and water pollution, contributing to debates on energy practices and environmental safety.

24. Explore the potential of geothermal energy as a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.

Geothermal energy is a clean resource. You can investigate its viability and impact as a renewable energy source, highlighting its role in the transition to sustainable energy.

25. Study the geological processes and hazards associated with volcanic eruptions in volcanic regions.

Volcanoes pose risks and opportunities. Researching volcanic activity and hazards can provide insights into disaster preparedness and the benefits of volcanic soils for agriculture.

Astronomy opens a window to the universe, allowing us to explore celestial phenomena and seek answers to fundamental questions about our place in the cosmos.

If you’re planning to major in astronomy or astrophysics, researching celestial bodies and cosmic events not only enhances your understanding of the universe’s workings but also prepares you for a career in scientific research, space exploration, and education. This field of study is crucial for developing critical thinking and analytical skills as you investigate the mysteries of the universe.

Here are five specific high school astronomy research topics and how you can approach them:

26. Investigate the potential habitability of exoplanets discovered by space telescopes like Kepler and TESS.

The search for habitable worlds is thrilling. You can analyze data from telescopes to study exoplanets’ atmospheres and conditions, contributing to our understanding of life’s potential in the universe.

27. Study the formation and evolution of black holes and their role in galactic dynamics.

Black holes are cosmic enigmas. By examining their formation and impact on galaxies, you can explore fundamental aspects of the universe’s structure and evolution.

28. Analyze the properties and composition of interstellar dust clouds and molecular clouds.

Star formation begins in these clouds. Researching their properties can provide insights into the birth of stars and planetary systems, shedding light on the cycle of cosmic matter.

29. Explore the physics of cosmic phenomena such as gamma-ray bursts and supernovae explosions.

These events are among the universe’s most energetic. Studying them enhances our knowledge of stellar life cycles and the universe’s chemical evolution.

30. Study the characteristics and behavior of asteroids and comets in our solar system.

Small bodies offer clues to the solar system’s history. Investigating asteroids and comets can reveal information about the early solar system and the potential threat they pose to Earth.

Environmental Science

Environmental science is pivotal in addressing the planet’s pressing issues, such as climate change, pollution, and biodiversity loss.

Researching environmental science topics offers invaluable insights into the complexities of ecosystems and human impacts on the environment. This knowledge is not only critical for your academic growth but also empowers you to contribute to sustainable solutions and conservation efforts in your future career.

Here are five specific high school environmental science research topics and how you can approach them:

31. Assess the effectiveness of reforestation efforts in mitigating climate change impacts.

Reforestation is key to carbon sequestration. You can evaluate existing reforestation projects to determine their success in reducing carbon dioxide levels, offering insights into future climate mitigation strategies.

32. Study the ecological benefits and risks of reintroducing apex predators into ecosystems.

Apex predators play crucial roles in maintaining ecological balance. Your research can explore the outcomes of predator reintroduction on biodiversity and ecosystem health, addressing both the benefits and potential challenges.

33. Analyze the impact of plastic pollution on freshwater sources and aquatic life.

Plastic pollution poses a significant threat to water quality and aquatic organisms. You can investigate the extent of pollution in specific freshwater environments and its effects on the ecosystem, contributing to awareness and solutions for plastic waste management.

34. Investigate the potential of sustainable agriculture practices to reduce environmental degradation.

Sustainable agriculture is essential for food security and environmental health. Your research could focus on comparing traditional and sustainable farming methods, highlighting the environmental and economic benefits of sustainable practices.

35. Explore the role of indigenous knowledge and practices in conservation and ecosystem management.

Indigenous communities hold valuable knowledge on sustainable living and conservation. By studying these practices, you can uncover traditional wisdom that contributes to contemporary conservation strategies, emphasizing the importance of integrating indigenous perspectives in environmental management.

Health Sciences

Health sciences play a pivotal role in improving public health, advancing medical knowledge , and developing innovative treatments.

Research in health sciences allows you to contribute to crucial advancements in healthcare and public health policy. This academic and practical foundation not only prepares you for a rewarding career in the medical and health sectors but also positions you to make a significant impact on individual and community health outcomes.

Here are five specific high school health science research topics and how you can approach them:

36. Investigate the effectiveness of telemedicine in improving access to healthcare services in rural communities.

Telemedicine can bridge healthcare gaps. You can study its implementation in rural areas, evaluating its impact on accessibility and patient outcomes, which is crucial for health equity.

37. Study the impacts of climate change on vector-borne diseases and public health preparedness.

Climate change affects disease patterns. By analyzing how it influences the spread of vector-borne diseases, you can contribute to strategies for public health adaptation and preparedness.

38. Analyze the genetic basis of rare diseases and potential targeted therapies.

Rare diseases present unique research challenges. Investigating their genetic underpinnings can lead to breakthroughs in targeted treatments, offering hope to affected individuals.

39. Explore the psychological impacts of long-term isolation and quarantine measures during pandemics.

Pandemics have mental health repercussions. Your research could examine the effects of isolation on mental well-being, informing strategies to support psychological health during crises.

40. Study the role of cultural competence in healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.

Cultural competence is vital for effective healthcare. By exploring its impact on healthcare delivery and outcomes, you can highlight the importance of understanding and respecting cultural differences in medical settings.

Engineering

Engineering is a critical field that combines creativity with technical skills to solve complex problems and create innovative solutions that improve lives and shape the future.

Research and projects within engineering and design allows you to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges. This experience is invaluable, preparing you for a career that not only demands a high level of technical expertise but also a commitment to ethical considerations and sustainability.

Here are five specific high school engineering research topics and how you can approach them:

41. Develop sustainable solutions for water purification and wastewater treatment in urban environments.

Clean water is essential for life. You can explore innovative methods for purifying and recycling water in cities, contributing to sustainability and public health.

42. Study the design and optimization of renewable energy systems for off-grid communities.

Renewable energy can transform lives, especially in remote areas. Your research could focus on designing efficient systems that harness solar, wind, or hydro power, offering sustainable energy solutions.

43. Analyze the structural integrity and resilience of buildings and infrastructure in earthquake-prone regions.

Earthquake resilience saves lives and property. You can investigate construction materials and techniques that enhance the durability of structures against seismic activity, aiming to improve safety standards.

44. Investigate the applications of 3D printing technology in prosthetics and medical device manufacturing.

3D printing is revolutionizing medical treatments. By studying its use in creating customized prosthetics, you can contribute to advances in affordable and accessible healthcare solutions.

45. Explore the design principles and challenges of autonomous vehicles in urban transportation systems.

Autonomous vehicles promise to change how we travel. Your research can delve into the technical and ethical challenges of integrating self-driving cars into city infrastructure, paving the way for safer and more efficient transportation.

Computer Science and Programming

Computer science and programming stand at the forefront of technological innovation, shaping the future of industries, healthcare, and education.

If you’re planning to major in computer science or related fields, research within this domain equips you with advanced skills in problem-solving, coding, and ethical considerations in technology. This foundation is crucial not only for academic success but also for driving forward innovations that can address complex societal challenges.

Here are five specific high school computer science and programming research topics and how you can approach them:

46. Develop machine learning algorithms for early detection and diagnosis of diseases.

Early disease detection can save lives. You can work on creating or improving machine learning models that analyze medical data, aiming to identify diseases at their onset.

47. Study the ethical implications of facial recognition technology and privacy concerns.

As facial recognition technology spreads, so do privacy concerns. Your research could involve analyzing ethical dilemmas, privacy issues, and proposing guidelines for responsible use.

48. Analyze the effectiveness of cybersecurity measures in protecting against ransomware attacks.

Ransomware attacks are a growing threat to data security. You can examine current cybersecurity strategies and their success in thwarting these attacks, suggesting improvements or new solutions.

49. Investigate the use of blockchain technology for secure and transparent voting systems.

Blockchain could revolutionize voting, ensuring security and transparency. Your research can explore blockchain applications in electoral systems, assessing feasibility and integrity.

50. Explore the applications of artificial intelligence in personalized education and tutoring systems.

AI has the potential to tailor education to individual learning styles. You can investigate AI-driven educational tools, evaluating their effectiveness in enhancing learning outcomes and engagement.

Language Studies

Language is a fundamental aspect of human culture, shaping communication, thought, and social identity.

Researching language offers insights into cognitive processes, social interactions, and cultural diversity. This study prepares you for careers in education, translation, computational linguistics, and cultural preservation, equipping you with the analytical skills needed to understand and influence how language impacts individuals and societies.

Here are five specific high school linguistic research topics and how you can approach them:

51. Investigate the effects of bilingualism on cognitive development and executive functioning.

Bilingualism enriches the mind. You can study how managing two languages affects brain structure and function, providing evidence of cognitive benefits and enhanced problem-solving skills.

52. Study the evolution and spread of constructed languages like Esperanto and Klingon.

Constructed languages offer unique insights into linguistics. By examining their development and community, you can explore the potential of language to create global or niche connections.

53. Analyze the role of language in shaping cultural identity and heritage preservation.

Language is key to culture. Researching how it influences cultural identity can highlight the importance of preserving endangered languages for heritage and diversity.

54. Explore the linguistic diversity and endangerment of indigenous languages around the world.

Indigenous languages are at risk. Your study can document their diversity, assess threats to their survival, and discuss strategies for revitalization, emphasizing the value of linguistic diversity.

55. Study the syntax and semantics of computer programming languages and their applications.

Programming languages are the backbone of technology. Investigating their structure and use can bridge linguistics and computer science, revealing how language shapes software development and human-computer interaction.

Anthropology

Anthropology examines the breadth of human culture and social structures, offering invaluable perspectives on how societies evolve and interact.

If you’re planning to major in anthropology or related fields, research in this area enables you to delve deep into the diversity of human experiences, enhancing your understanding of cultural practices, social norms, and the impact of globalization. This prepares you for careers in cultural preservation, international development, and social research, where you can apply insights to promote understanding and respect among diverse communities.

Here are five specific high school anthropology research topics and how you can approach them:

56. Analyze the impacts of globalization on traditional cultural practices and identities.

Globalization reshapes cultures. You can explore how it influences traditional practices and identities, highlighting the tensions between globalization and cultural preservation.

57. Explore the social significance and symbolism of body modification practices across cultures.

Body modification is deeply cultural. By examining its meanings and roles in various societies, you can uncover insights into identity, status, and beauty standards.

58. Study the cultural dynamics and rituals associated with food consumption and preparation.

Food is central to culture. Investigating food rituals can reveal how societies express values, relationships, and social hierarchies through culinary practices.

59. Investigate the role of storytelling and oral traditions in preserving cultural heritage.

Stories carry culture. By studying oral traditions, you can understand their importance in maintaining cultural knowledge and identity across generations.

60. Analyze the impacts of tourism on indigenous communities and cultural commodification.

Tourism affects indigenous cultures. Researching its impacts can shed light on the challenges of cultural commodification and strategies for sustainable, respectful tourism practices.

Sociology provides a lens through which we can examine the complex interactions within societies and the structures that shape human behavior.

Pursuing sociological research offers profound insights into how social forces influence individual lives and community dynamics. This exploration not only enhances your understanding of social phenomena but also prepares you to contribute meaningfully to discussions on social policy, equity, and change.

Here are five specific high school sociology research topics and how you can approach them:

61. Investigate the impact of social media algorithms on echo chambers and polarization in online communities.

Social media shapes public discourse. You can study how algorithms create echo chambers, influencing polarization and social cohesion, to understand the digital landscape’s impact on society.

62. Study the dynamics of interracial relationships and social acceptance in diverse societies.

Interracial relationships offer insights into societal attitudes toward race. Your research could explore factors that influence acceptance and the experiences of couples, contributing to broader discussions on diversity and inclusion.

63. Analyze the influence of cultural norms on gender identity and expression among adolescents.

Gender identity is deeply influenced by societal norms. By examining how culture affects gender expression, you can shed light on the challenges and opportunities for supporting youth in their identity exploration.

64. Explore the effects of gentrification on urban communities and displacement of marginalized groups.

Gentrification transforms cities and affects residents. Your study can assess its impact on communities, focusing on displacement and changes in social fabric, offering insights into urban development and policy.

65. Study the role of social networks and support systems in mental health outcomes among college students.

Social connections are crucial for mental health. Investigating the relationship between social networks and mental well-being can provide valuable data on how to support students through challenges, emphasizing the importance of community and connection.

Psychology delves into the complexities of human behavior and mental processes, offering insights that are crucial for personal development, societal improvement, and addressing mental health issues.

Conducting research in psychology can provide a deeper understanding of the influences behind human actions and thought processes. This experience is invaluable, not only in preparing you for a career in psychology but also in equipping you with the empathy and analytical skills needed to make a positive impact on others’ lives.

Here are five specific high school psychology research topics and how you can approach them:

66. Study the effects of social media usage on mental health outcomes among adolescents.

Social media significantly impacts youth mental health. You can explore how different levels of usage correlate with mental health outcomes, providing insights into safe social media practices.

67. Investigate the psychological impacts of prolonged exposure to virtual environments and digital media.

Virtual spaces are becoming more common in our lives. Your research can examine the long-term effects of these environments on mental health and social behavior, contributing to digital wellness guidelines.

68. Analyze the relationship between personality traits and academic performance in high school students.

Personality can influence learning and success. By studying this relationship, you can identify which traits benefit academic performance, offering strategies for educators to support diverse learners.

69. Explore the psychology of decision-making in the context of environmental conservation behaviors.

Understanding what drives conservation actions is key to promoting sustainable practices. Your research could focus on the psychological factors that encourage or deter individuals from adopting eco-friendly behaviors.

70. Study the effects of mindfulness-based interventions on stress reduction and well-being in college students.

Mindfulness has been shown to improve mental health. Investigating its impact on college students can provide valuable data on its effectiveness in reducing stress and enhancing overall well-being.

History provides a window into the past, offering insights into the social, political, and cultural forces that have shaped our world.

Researching historical events and their impacts equips you with a deeper understanding of the complexities of human societies and the ability to analyze current events in a broader context. This knowledge is not only fundamental for academic success but also fosters a critical perspective on societal development and decision-making processes.

Here are five specific high school history research topics and how you can approach them:

71. Investigate the social and political impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on global economies and societies.

The pandemic has left a significant mark on the world. You can explore its multifaceted effects on societies and economies, providing insights into contemporary global challenges.

72. Study the history and legacy of civil rights movements in the United States and their relevance today.

Civil rights movements have profoundly influenced American society. Your research can delve into their history, achievements, and ongoing impact, highlighting the importance of social justice movements.

73. Analyze the causes and consequences of major historical conflicts, such as World War II.

Understanding conflicts sheds light on their lasting effects. You can examine the complex causes and far-reaching consequences of World War II, contributing to a deeper understanding of global history.

74. Explore the role of women in shaping historical events and narratives throughout history.

Women have played crucial but often underrecognized roles in history. Your study can highlight their contributions, challenging traditional narratives and promoting a more inclusive historical perspective.

75. Study the history of technological advancements and their effects on human societies and cultures.

Technology has driven societal change. By researching technological milestones, you can analyze how innovations have influenced human life and culture, offering perspectives on the relationship between technology and society.

Political Science

Political science is crucial for understanding the mechanisms of governance and the impact of policies on societies worldwide.

Engaging in research within political science equips you with the analytical skills needed to dissect complex political dynamics and their consequences. This preparation is vital for a future role in shaping public policy, advocacy, or governance, offering a path to make significant contributions to societal well-being and democratic processes.

Here are five specific high school political science research topics and how you can approach them:

76. Analyze the implications of populism and nationalism on democratic governance and institutions.

Populism and nationalism are reshaping politics globally. You can examine their effects on democratic norms and institutions, providing insight into current political trends and their impacts on governance.

77. Investigate the role of social media platforms in shaping political discourse and electoral outcomes.

Social media has become a pivotal arena for political engagement. Your research could focus on how these platforms influence public opinion and elections, highlighting the interplay between digital media and democracy.

78. Study the effectiveness of international treaties and agreements in addressing global environmental challenges.

International cooperation is essential for environmental sustainability. You can analyze the success of treaties in mitigating issues like climate change, offering perspectives on global governance and environmental policy.

79. Explore the impacts of immigration policies on migrant communities and national economies.

Immigration policies have far-reaching consequences. By examining their effects on both migrants and host countries, you can contribute to the dialogue on humane and economically beneficial immigration practices.

80. Analyze the influence of lobbying and special interest groups on public policy decision-making processes.

Lobbying plays a significant role in shaping policy. Investigating this influence can uncover the dynamics between interest groups and policymakers, shedding light on the complexities of policy formation and advocacy.

Economics plays a crucial role in shaping societal structures and influencing global policy decisions.

Research on economic systems and their impacts provides essential insights into how resources are allocated and the effects of these decisions on communities and countries. This foundational knowledge not only prepares you for a career in economics but also equips you with the analytical skills needed to address complex financial challenges and contribute to sustainable economic policies.

Here are five specific high school economics research topics and how you can approach them:

81. Investigate the economic impacts of global supply chain disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Supply chain disruptions have far-reaching economic effects. You can analyze the pandemic’s impact on global trade, production, and economic stability, offering insights into resilience and recovery strategies.

82. Study the effects of automation and artificial intelligence on labor markets and job displacement.

Automation is transforming the workforce. Your research could explore how AI and automation affect employment across different sectors, providing a basis for discussing adaptation and policy responses.

83. Analyze the economic consequences of income inequality and potential policy interventions.

Income inequality poses significant challenges to economic stability and social cohesion. You can examine its root causes and evaluate the effectiveness of various policy interventions in reducing disparities.

84. Explore the role of digital currencies like Bitcoin in the future of finance and monetary systems.

Digital currencies are reshaping financial landscapes. By studying Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies, you can assess their potential to influence traditional banking and monetary policies.

85. Study the economic viability of renewable energy investment and transition strategies.

The shift to renewable energy is essential for sustainable development. Your research can investigate the economic aspects of transitioning to renewable energy sources, including costs, benefits, and investment strategies.

Literature serves as a mirror to society, reflecting cultural norms, societal issues, and human emotions.

For students interested in majoring in literature or related fields, conducting literary analysis offers profound insights into how literature shapes and is shaped by societal contexts. This scholarly pursuit not only enhances your critical thinking and interpretive skills but also prepares you to contribute to cultural discussions and understandings in a nuanced manner.

Here are five specific high school literature research topics and how you can approach them:

86. Analyze the portrayal of mental illness and stigma in contemporary literature.

Literature often reflects societal attitudes towards mental health. You can analyze how contemporary works address mental illness and stigma, shedding light on cultural perceptions and fostering empathy.

87. Explore the themes of identity and belonging in immigrant literature.

Immigrant literature provides perspectives on identity and assimilation. By examining these themes, you can explore the complex experiences of immigrants, contributing to a broader understanding of multicultural societies.

88. Study the representation of environmental themes and activism in modern literature.

Environmental concerns are increasingly prominent in literature. Your research can investigate how modern authors incorporate ecological themes, potentially influencing readers’ views on environmental issues.

89. Investigate the use of magical realism as a narrative technique in contemporary fiction.

Magical realism blends the real with the fantastical, offering unique insights into human experiences. You can study its use in contemporary fiction to understand how it challenges conventional narrative boundaries and explores complex themes.

90. Analyze the influence of dystopian literature on popular culture and societal perceptions.

Dystopian literature has a significant impact on popular culture and societal fears. By analyzing dystopian works, you can discuss how they reflect contemporary anxieties and influence perceptions of future societal directions.

Art is a powerful medium that reflects and shapes societal values, challenges norms, and fosters cultural understanding.

Research on artistic expression offers unique insights into the role of art in social activism, technology, and mental health . This exploration not only enhances your appreciation and understanding of art’s impact but also prepares you to contribute to the art world in meaningful ways, whether through creation, critique, or curation.

Here are five specific high school art research topics and how you can approach them:

91. Analyze the portrayal of social justice issues in contemporary art and activism.

Art can drive social change. You can examine how artists address social justice themes, contributing to awareness and dialogue on pressing societal issues.

92. Explore the intersection of technology and art in immersive and interactive installations.

Technology expands art’s boundaries. By studying tech-infused art, you can explore new forms of engagement and expression, highlighting the evolving relationship between art and innovation.

93. Study the role of public art in urban revitalization and community engagement.

Public art transforms spaces and communities. Your research could focus on its impact on urban areas and how it fosters community identity and engagement.

94. Investigate the use of art therapy interventions in addressing trauma and mental health disorders.

Art therapy offers healing pathways. By exploring its effectiveness, you can contribute to understanding how creative expression aids in mental health treatment and recovery.

95. Analyze the representation of marginalized voices and identities in contemporary visual arts.

Art gives a voice to the voiceless. Investigating how marginalized perspectives are represented in art can shed light on issues of diversity, equity, and inclusion within the art world and society at large.

Philosophy engages with fundamental questions about existence, ethics, and knowledge, providing frameworks to navigate the complex moral landscapes of modern society.

Delving into contemporary ethical dilemmas equips you with critical thinking and analytical skills essential for dissecting arguments and making reasoned decisions. This scholarly pursuit is not only academically enriching but also highly relevant, preparing you to address ethical issues in technology, healthcare, environmental policy, and beyond.

Here are five specific high school philosophy research topics and how you can approach them:

96. Investigate the ethical implications of genetic engineering and designer babies.

Genetic engineering raises profound ethical questions. You can explore the moral considerations of designing babies, focusing on implications for society and individual rights.

97. Study the philosophical underpinnings of artificial intelligence and machine consciousness.

AI challenges our understanding of consciousness. By examining philosophical debates on AI and consciousness, you can contribute to discussions on the ethical treatment and rights of AI entities.

98. Analyze the moral complexities of euthanasia and end-of-life care decisions.

Euthanasia is a contentious issue. Investigating its ethical dimensions can provide insights into autonomy, compassion, and the value of life, informing healthcare policies and practices.

99. Explore the ethics of animal rights and welfare in the context of industrial agriculture.

The treatment of animals in agriculture prompts ethical scrutiny. Your research could assess animal rights and welfare issues, proposing ethical guidelines for food production systems.

100. Study the philosophical foundations of environmental ethics and sustainable development.

Environmental challenges require ethical solutions. By exploring the philosophical basis of environmental ethics, you can discuss principles guiding sustainable development and conservation efforts.

How can I choose the right high school research topic?

When selecting a research topic, consider your passions and how they intersect with current global challenges or academic questions. For instance, if you’re fascinated by environmental science and technology, you might explore the efficacy of renewable energy sources in reducing carbon emissions.

By aligning your interests with significant issues, you ensure that your research is both personally fulfilling and contributes valuable insights to your chosen field.

How can I develop effective high school research questions?

Developing effective research questions requires identifying a specific, manageable scope within your broader area of interest. For example, instead of tackling the vast topic of climate change, narrow your focus to the impact of renewable energy policies in a specific region over the last decade.

Start with broad reading on your subject, then pinpoint a gap or an area ripe for further exploration. Workshops or seminars on research methodologies, offered by many schools or local universities, can also provide practical tips and frameworks for refining your questions.

What resources are available for high school research projects?

Numerous resources can support your high school research projects, from online databases like JSTOR or Google Scholar to local libraries and university archives. For instance, a project on the ecological impact of local water pollution could benefit from both scientific journals and regional environmental studies.

Additionally, reaching out to experts or professors who specialize in your topic of interest can provide valuable insights and potentially mentorship.

How can I publish or present my high school research?

High school students have several avenues to publish or present their research, including local science fairs, school newsletters, or youth academic conferences. For example, the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) is a prestigious platform where students can showcase their work.

Additionally, some academic journals dedicated to high school research like The Concord Review accept submissions across various disciplines, offering a broader audience for your findings.

How do high school research projects enhance college applications?

A well-executed research project, such as an in-depth analysis of historical events’ impact on modern political systems, can significantly bolster your college application. It demonstrates your ability to undertake complex tasks, manage time effectively , and produce work that contributes to academic discussions.

Mentioning such projects in your application shows colleges your readiness for undergraduate research, setting you apart from other applicants.

Conducting high school research projects is a path to learning and discovery. By diving into various topics, you prepare for college and add to important conversations. Each challenge is a chance to learn more, and every question you explore helps build knowledge. Follow your curiosity, and who knows? It could lead to research that makes a real difference.

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6 facts about americans and tiktok.

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