45 Best Science Internships for High School Students
- Stephen Turban
- 4 hours ago
- 28 min read
As a high school student, pursuing science internships is a great way to gain early exposure to real-world research, professional skills, and career pathways in STEM fields.
What does a science internship look like for a high school student? What will I do as an intern?
These experiences often include hands-on lab work, participation in ongoing research projects, and the chance to build valuable connections, making them a strong addition to your college applications or future resume. In this blog, we’ve narrowed down 45 of the best science internships for high school students, based on the prestige of the hosting organization, the rigor of professional experience offered, and the opportunities to network with experts in the field. From highly competitive lab placements to specialized programs in marine biology, artificial intelligence, or biomedical research, we’ve included a wide range of internships to suit different scientific interests. And if you're looking for more prestigious internships, check out this set of blogs.
45 Best Science Internships for High School Students
Location: Remote! You can work from anywhere in the world.
Cost: Varies based on program
Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year, including Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.
Application deadline: Deadlines vary depending on the cohort. Spring (January), Summer (May), Fall (September), and Winter (November).
Eligibility: Students who can work for 10-20 hours/week for 8-12 weeks. Open to high school students, undergraduates, and gap year students!
Ladder Internships gives you the opportunity to work remotely with a start-up on a project aligned with your specific interests, whether that’s tech, artificial intelligence, marketing, or another innovative domain. You can explore all the options here on their application form. You’ll be matched with a company supervisor as well as a personal coach from Ladder who will guide you throughout the eight-week internship. While the program is virtual, your role is far from passive; you’ll be expected to contribute meaningfully to real-world work. By the end, you'll present your project, gaining practical experience in communication, project execution, and collaboration. The internship program supports independent work but also ensures regular feedback and mentorship.
Location: Scripps Research Translational Institute, La Jolla, CA
Cost: None, housing not provided
Dates: June 2–August 8 | June 16–August 22
Application deadline: March 31
Eligibility: Highly motivated students in high school, college or professional training (medical/law/graduate/business school) may apply; The primary criterion for admission is a strong interest in genomics or Health translational research (Please note that high school students must be at least 16 years of age before the start of their internship)
If you're looking to dive into biomedical science, computational research, or public health, the Scripps Student Research Internship offers a 10-week immersive experience at the Translational Institute. You’ll work closely with a primary mentor on a dedicated project, engage with current research literature, attend weekly scientific seminars, and present your findings both verbally and through a research poster. Projects typically explore the intersection of health data, genomics, mobile technology, and personalized healthcare. This internship is designed to help you understand how translational research and data analysis contribute to real-world health outcomes. It's a strong option if you're considering a future in medical research or applied biosciences.
Location: Varies based on lab locations.
Cost: Free; stipend: $4,000 (new participants) | $4,500 (returning participants)
Dates: June–August (8 weeks), with the potential of increasing by 2 weeks
Application deadline: Applications open in August and close on November 1 every year
Eligibility: Open to high school students in grades 10-12 who are 16 years old by the start of the program and are U.S. citizens; check all criteria here
High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors with a strong STEM background can choose SEAP, which lets you spend eight weeks at a Department of Navy lab contributing to scientific research. You'll be paired with science and engineering mentors who will guide your involvement in active projects in areas like cybersecurity, engineering, and applied sciences. Around 300 students are selected each year to intern at one of 38 Navy research facilities across the country. You’ll be expected to participate full-time, with the possibility to extend your stay by two additional weeks. First-time interns receive a stipend of $4,000, with an increase for returning students.
Location: Salk Institute, La Jolla, CA
Cost: Free; $17/hour stipend
Dates: June 15–August 7
Application deadline: March 1
Eligibility: Open to students 16 years and older who reside and attend school in San Diego County with a minimum 2.75 GPA; see all criteria on the website
Through the Salk Institute’s eight-week summer program, you'll join a working lab and contribute to scientific research in fields like molecular biology, neuroscience, or genetics. Under the guidance of a scientist mentor, you’ll help develop a research project and take part in seminars, workshops, and site visits that deepen your understanding of laboratory science. The program also includes a final symposium where you'll present your work through a talk or scientific poster. Designed to support early interest in research careers, the science internship for high school students covers both lab techniques and the broader professional practices of science. It's a full-time, paid program, and a great option if you're serious about exploring bioscience in a research setting.
Location: San Diego Natural History Museum, San Diego, CA
Cost: Free
Dates: Internships are offered all year round
Application deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: High school students 16 years and older; you must be enrolled through your school and receive credit
High school interns at the San Diego Natural History Museum get to explore scientific collections and research across departments like Entomology, Botany, and Paleontology. This unpaid internship is open to students aged 16 and older who are participating through a school-affiliated program that grants academic credit. Depending on your interests and school requirements, you might spend your time in one department or rotate through several to gain broader exposure. You’ll learn how scientific data is cataloged and maintained, and how museums contribute to public education and conservation efforts. It's a behind-the-scenes look at careers in the natural sciences, valuable for those interested in ecology or biology.
Location: Available across all 50 U.S. states, Puerto Rico, Canada, Mexico, and the Pacific Islands. Participants are assigned a location that is within a 45-minute commute of their home.
Stipend: $3,000 stipend
Dates: June – August (flexible)
Application deadline: January 19
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors and rising college freshmen who are at least 16 years old by the internship start date
The Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program is a paid, eight-week internship designed for high school students curious about environmental science, specifically aquatic ecosystems. As a selected Hutton Scholar, you’ll be paired with a professional mentor and take part in conservation projects, which might include restoring habitats, monitoring water quality, or studying fish populations in freshwater or marine settings. This program also places a strong emphasis on promoting diversity in the fisheries field. In addition to field and lab experiences, you’ll be expected to track your progress with midterm and final reports, along with a detailed log of your hours. The mentorship you receive gives you a first-hand look into what careers in biological and environmental sciences are really like.
Stipend: paid internship
Dates: Summer sessions; exact dates vary by location
Application deadline: Starts December 4; rolling enrolment
Eligibility: High school students who are U.S. citizens or Permanent Residents can apply. For location-specific criteria, click here
Through the AEOP High School Internship Program, you’ll work full-time in a research setting alongside professionals at U.S. Army laboratories or affiliated university research centers. Internships are project-based and could involve lab experiments, coding, technical writing, or data-driven research related to topics like cybersecurity, engineering, or health sciences. You’ll be mentored throughout the experience and participate in workshops focused on career readiness and STEM development. Each placement is carefully matched to your academic interests and skills, and you’ll have the chance to showcase your work through reports or online presentations.
Location: NASA centers or virtual/hybrid
Cost: None; paid opportunity
Program dates:
Spring: 16 weeks (mid-January – early May)
Summer: 10 weeks (late May – August)
Fall: 16 weeks (late August – mid-December)
Application deadline:
Fall: May 22
Spring: September 12
Summer: February 27
Eligibility: full-time students (high school through graduate-level) or part-time college students enrolled in at least 6 semester hours; at least 16 years of age with a cumulative 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale who are U.S. citizens
NASA’s OSTEM internship programs allow high school students to contribute to real projects in space science, robotics, environmental research, and other technical areas. Depending on your placement, your work could involve analyzing mission data, assisting with material science experiments, or helping develop software tools for NASA systems.. As an intern, you'll work under expert mentors and gain a better understanding of NASA’s goals and research areas. This prestigious science internship for high school students runs during fall, spring, and summer terms and is open to students who meet specific academic qualifications in STEM.
Location: Various locations across the U.S.
Stipend: Varies based on education level and credits earned, you can find exact amounts here
Dates:
Fall: 16 weeks (late August/early September – mid-December)
Spring: 16 weeks (mid-January – early May)
Summer: 10 weeks (late May/early June – August)
Application deadline: October 10 – January 10 (summer cohort)
Eligibility: U.S. citizens at least 16 years of age with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0; you can check all criteria here
The AFRL Scholars Program is a competitive, paid science internship for students where you’ll work directly with scientists and engineers at U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory sites. As a high school intern, you may be assigned to research areas such as aerospace engineering, quantum systems, or machine learning applications. Projects often require involvement in experiment design, coding, or data analysis, and you’ll contribute to solving complex problems like satellite fault detection or spacecraft autonomy. Working in this environment gives you firsthand exposure to federal research operations and real-world scientific challenges.
Location: NIST laboratory at Gaithersburg, Maryland, or Boulder, Colorado
Cost/Stipend: Currently unpaid
Dates: 8 weeks starting the second or third week of June
Application Deadline: November 1–February 6
Eligibility: High school juniors or seniors with a minimum GPA of 3.0 who are U.S. citizens
Through NIST’s Summer High School Intern Program (SHIP), you’ll spend eight weeks working full-time in a professional research setting at one of the agency’s federal labs. Interns are matched with mentors from NIST’s scientific staff and contribute to ongoing research in fields like artificial intelligence, computing, and materials science. The experience involves both practical lab work and formal training sessions, along with seminars and a final poster presentation to summarize your findings. You’ll also get a close look at how federal labs operate and how professional scientists approach technical challenges.
Location: Magee-Womens Research Institute, Pittsburgh
Stipend: $1800 (if household qualifies for the National School Breakfast and Lunch Program for Pennsylvania)
Dates: 6 weeks starting June 15-July 24
Application deadline: February 9
Eligibility: High school students currently in their sophomore or junior year | Over 16 years old by the program start date | Permanent/primary residence in the local southwest Pennsylvania region
At Magee-Womens Research Institute in Pittsburgh, high school students can join a six-week summer internship focused on research in women’s and infant health, reproductive biology, and related medical topics. You’ll be assigned to a lab–ranging from basic science to clinical research–where you'll help carry out experiments, analyze data, and prepare a formal presentation of your findings. Weekly career talks expose you to a range of paths in biomedical science, while your daily lab work introduces you to scientific tools and techniques. Past projects have investigated cancer, gene function, and reproductive systems, giving participants a deeper understanding of real-world biomedical research.
Location: Menlo Park, California
Cost/Stipend: No cost; participants receive a competitive stipend
Dates: June 16–July 25
Application Deadline: February 14
Eligibility: High school sophomores with a minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA who are year-round residents of East Palo Alto, Belle Haven, or Redwood City
Meta Summer Academy is a six-week internship program based at Meta’s Menlo Park campus that allows high school students to explore the tech industry from the inside. You’ll work 30 paid hours per week on guided projects while receiving mentorship from professionals in areas like data science, software engineering, and information technology. The science internship for high school students also features workshops on professional development, career panels, and networking opportunities that help you explore future options in the tech world. You’ll also connect with peers and mentors who can offer ongoing support beyond the program. During your time here, you’ll gain exposure to a wide range of roles and skills used in a leading technology company.
Location: Redmond, Washington, and Atlanta, Georgia
Cost: No cost; students will receive a stipend (amount is not specified)
Dates: Atlanta: July 6 - July 31 | Redmond: July 13 - August 7
Application deadline: Applications open in February and are reviewed on a rolling basis
Eligibility: Open to rising first-year students of a bachelor’s degree program (graduating high school seniors) who live around Redmond, WA, or Atlanta, GA, and have completed pre-calculus or an equivalent course by the start of the program.
The Microsoft Discovery Program is a four-week paid internship for high school students interested in exploring careers in the tech world. You'll work in small groups to complete projects while learning about different roles in the industry, such as software engineering, product development, and user experience design. The program includes mentorship from Microsoft professionals, hands-on activities, and exposure to real workplace environments through talks and collaborative sessions. Over the course of the internship, you’ll begin to understand how your personal interests and strengths could align with various roles in technology. It’s designed to help you build both technical and soft skills while gaining early insight into working at a major tech company.
Location: Moores Cancer Center, UC San Diego
Stipend: Paid
Dates: June 16–August 8
Application deadline: TBA
Eligibility: Open to students in grades 10 and 11 who reside in San Diego and attend Lincoln, Hoover, Crawford, Morse, Madison, Garfield, Mark Twain, or Preuss High Schools.
At UC San Diego’s Moores Cancer Center, the OPTIMUS Outreach Program offers an eight-week summer experience focused on introducing high school students to both cancer research and clinical medicine. Participants rotate between working in research labs and observing in medical settings, learning about the biology of cancer and how research connects to patient care. The program includes lectures and workshops led by medical students and researchers, covering topics such as public health, experimental techniques, and healthcare equity. You’ll also engage in discussions that explore how scientific discoveries make their way into treatment options. A stipend is awarded at the conclusion of the program.
Location: Various locations across the U.S.
Stipend: Students receive a stipend that varies with experience and internship placement
Dates: Varies by internship, both full-time summer and part-time year-round internships are offered
Application deadline: Varies by internship
Eligibility: Open to U.S. citizens who are at least 16 years of age; specific eligibility criteria vary by position
Sandia National Laboratories provides paid internship options to high school students interested in STEM, including full-time summer positions, part-time roles during the school year, or cooperative programs tied to school curricula. You’ll be placed in a professional research environment and work alongside experienced scientists and engineers on active projects involving coding, data analysis, or experimental design. These internships are designed to give you meaningful tasks and defined goals, much like a junior research role. Each placement is tailored to fit your availability, and the work you do will contribute directly to ongoing scientific or engineering efforts. The science internship for high school students also introduces you to advanced tools and processes used in government and national security research labs.
Location: Stanford University, Stanford, CA
Stipend: Paid opportunity
Dates: June 8 - July 30
Application deadline: February 21
Eligibility: High school juniors or seniors as of the fall, graduating in this or next year, and at least 16 years old by the start of the program. Applicants must reside in and attend high school in the U.S. and be U.S. citizens/permanent residents with a green card
Stanford’s Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR) is an eight-week internship that places high school students in university research labs to explore topics like cancer biology, genetics, stem cells, or bioengineering. You’ll be paired with a faculty mentor and work on a focused research project that gives you direct exposure to academic science. If you prefer a more academic approach outside the lab, an optional bioengineering bootcamp is also available. Throughout the program, you'll participate in discussions on medical research and career paths while gaining hands-on experience in lab techniques and scientific problem-solving.
Location: Texas Tech University, Lubbock, Texas
Cost/Stipend: $750 stipend
Dates: June 22–August 7
Application Deadline: February 24
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors who are at least 17 by the start date
The Anson L. Clark Scholars Program at Texas Tech University is a highly selective, seven-week summer research opportunity for academically advanced high school students. Each year, about 12 students are chosen to collaborate one-on-one with a faculty mentor on an independent research project. Areas of study span across STEM fields and even the humanities, with options including information technology, engineering, and computer science. In addition to research, you’ll attend weekly seminars, engage in interdisciplinary discussions, and go on educational field trips. The program culminates in a formal research report, and participants receive a stipend upon completion.
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free
Dates: June 23rd - August 8
Application deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: Open to all high school students ( preference is given to students underrepresented in neuroscience or without prior research experience)
The sci-MI Neuroscience Mentorship Program is a free, fully virtual summer experience focused on independent research in neuroscience. Over five weeks, you'll design and carry out your own research project using online scientific resources, tools, and public databases. The program includes weekly journal discussions, interactive lectures on core neuroscience concepts, and live mentorship sessions that help you stay on track with your work. By the end of the program, you’ll give a 10–15 minute presentation and submit a written research summary, which can be included in college applications or submitted to student-led science journals. It’s an accessible way to explore neuroscience research early on.
Location: NYU Tandon School of Engineering, Brooklyn, New York
Cost/Stipend: $1,000 stipend
Dates: June 2–August 8
Application Deadline: February 21
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors who are New York residents
NYU Tandon’s ARISE program is a no-cost, 10-week summer experience that places high school students in research labs across fields like engineering, life sciences, and computer science. The program begins with a month of foundational training, covering research methods, lab safety, and academic writing. In the following six weeks, you’ll work under the guidance of NYU researchers and contribute to active lab projects while accumulating approximately 120 hours of experience. You'll present your findings at an internal colloquium and again at the American Museum of Natural History. ARISE also includes support for college readiness, mentorship, and professional networking, along with a stipend for participating students.
Location: University of Chicago, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, University of Illinois at Chicago, Northwestern University, Rush University
Cost/Stipend: Taxable stipend of $3,000
Dates: Second week of June through the first week of August
Application Deadline: January 19
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors who will be at least 16 years old at the start of the program
ResearcHStart is a full-time summer internship hosted by UChicago Medicine for high school students in the Chicago and Urbana-Champaign areas who are interested in cancer research. You’ll join a lab focused on biomedical science for several weeks and explore topics like cancer immunology, pharmacology, and public health disparities. The program blends hands-on research with lectures, mentorship, and workshops that support both scientific learning and career development. You'll also take part in a faculty-led seminar series and present your final research at a symposium attended by peers and professionals. Participants receive a $3,000 stipend, and the program is especially geared toward students considering future study in biomedical fields.
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: No cost
Dates: Varies
Application Deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: Open to high school students with at least one honors science or honors English class and a GPA above 3.25
The EnergyMag Internship is a flexible, remote opportunity that allows you to explore current topics in the energy storage and renewable energy sectors. As a high school intern, you’ll conduct independent research under a mentor’s guidance and may connect with professionals in the field to deepen your understanding of technologies like advanced batteries or grid systems. You’ll work on a focused topic, gather and evaluate information, and write a publishable report that clearly communicates your findings. This internship can be completed part-time, and your schedule is largely self-directed. Students who finish a final project receive a Letter of Accomplishment, and selected reports may even be featured on the EnergyMag platform.
Location: J. Craig Venter Institute, Rockville, MD
Stipend: $17.50/hour
Dates: May - August; 10-15 week opportunities are offered throughout the year
Application deadline: Rolling
Eligibility: High school students aged 16 and above; eligible to work in the United States; check all criteria on the website
As a summer intern at the J. Craig Venter Institute, you’ll work alongside researchers in areas such as genomics, microbiology, and bioinformatics. This program matches you with a mentor who will guide your day-to-day work and introduce you to real-world lab environments and research practices. You’ll take part in a variety of enrichment activities including seminars, journal clubs, and professional development workshops aimed at strengthening both technical and communication skills. Interns contribute to active research projects and gain experience using lab tools and methods common in advanced scientific work. The science internship for high school students concludes with a poster presentation judged by scientists, giving you the chance to showcase your findings and gain feedback.
Location: Wistar Institute, University City District, Philadelphia
Stipend: $1,500
Dates: July 7–31
Application deadline: March 20
Eligibility: At least 16 years old by the start of the program | Have completed at least one high school science course | (Priority is given to students enrolled in the School District of Philadelphia)
The Wistar Institute’s High School Fellowship in Biomedical Research is a four-week program in Philadelphia designed to introduce you to the basics of lab research in cancer biology and infectious diseases. You’ll work in a formal training lab, learning essential techniques and how to interpret scientific literature and analyze data. The program also features career talks by professionals in the biomedical field and offers guidance for students new to research. By the end of the fellowship, you’ll present your work and gain valuable experience in communicating science clearly. This opportunity offers a realistic introduction to how lab-based research is conducted in a professional setting, especially for those beginning their journey in science.
Location: NIH Campus, Bethesda, Maryland
Cost/Stipend: Paid
Dates: 8–12 weeks starting in June; flexible dates
Application Deadline: November 18–February 19
Eligibility: Enrolled in high school at least half-time as a senior or accepted into an accredited program for the upcoming fall; must be at least 18 years old by June 1; U.S. citizens or permanent residents; cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher on a 4.0 scale; completed coursework in computer science, data science, informatics, mathematics, or related fields
Through the DSI Scholars Program at the National Library of Medicine, you’ll spend 8 to 12 weeks in a full-time, paid internship focused on applying data science to biomedical research. You'll collaborate with a mentor on a research project that involves using computational methods to analyze real datasets and draw meaningful insights. The program includes opportunities to attend scientific seminars and professional development workshops, helping you build both technical and workplace skills. You’ll also prepare a research poster and present your work through an NIH-wide showcase. Stipends are provided in line with NIH standards, and schedules are adjusted to suit individual availability.
Location: Various locations across Illinois
Cost/Stipend: $1,200 stipend; additional stipends up to $2,000 available for qualifying students based on financial need and placement site
Dates: Two-year program with monthly sessions; fall session begins November 15
Application Deadline: September 29
Eligibility: First-year applicants must be at least 15 years old, entering sophomore or junior year of high school, and have a GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
The NM GCM Grosvenor Discovery Program is a year-long experience that introduces high school students to the healthcare field through monthly workshops and summer immersion. It’s designed for students who may not otherwise have access to clinical exposure, with sessions covering topics like medical diagnostics, electronic medical records, and hospital administration. Throughout the year, you’ll receive mentorship from healthcare professionals and participate in leadership training and community service initiatives. The summer portion includes job shadowing and hands-on activities that deepen your understanding of real-world medical environments.
Location: San Francisco and Oakland
Stipend: $3000 for high school students, $4300 for undergraduate students, as determined by the particular agency
Dates: June 2 – August 1
Application deadline: February 14
Eligibility: Open to high school juniors or seniors, age 16+ by June 1, with at least one year of completed math and biology; check all criteria here
Over the course of nine weeks, this UCSF-based internship immerses you in a biomedical research setting where you’ll work under the mentorship of scientists or healthcare professionals. Weekly seminars, journal clubs, and peer-centered social activities complement your lab work. Each intern is assigned to a unique lab or clinical project and expected to submit a personal statement, research abstract, and detailed proposal. The program culminates in a formal Research Symposium, where you'll present your findings and reflect on your summer experience.
Location: UC San Francisco campus
Stipend: $4,500
Dates: June 8 – July 31
Application deadline: February 28
Eligibility: Open to current juniors attending an SFUSD school or an SF charter school
The UCSF High School Intern Program is an intensive option tailored specifically for rising seniors from San Francisco Unified School District (SFUSD) and San Francisco charter schools. Interns are matched with UCSF scientists and placed in active research labs in areas such as neuroscience, infectious disease, or cancer biology, where they carry out an independent research project with guidance from their mentors. In addition to developing scientific and technical skills, students engage in science communication training, resume writing workshops, and receive personalised college advising. The program also hosts family-centered events focused on campus navigation and financial aid. Interns are paid for their participation and can choose between part-time (25 hours/week) or full-time (35 hours/week) schedules.
Location: Adler Planetarium, Chicago, IL
Cost/Stipend: $350
Dates: June 30–August 8
Application Deadline: March 1
Eligibility: High school students in grades 10–12
Spending your summer at the Adler Planetarium means stepping into the inner workings of a science museum that focuses on space and astronomy. As a full-time intern, you could find yourself helping with visitor experiences, contributing to educational exhibits, or even supporting hands-on science projects like high-altitude balloon launches. You'll collaborate closely with museum professionals and fellow interns, which helps build communication, leadership, and teamwork skills. The internship also includes career development opportunities and networking sessions that give you insight into STEAM professions.
Location: Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, Batavia
Cost/Stipend: $500 weekly
Dates: July 14–August 8
Application Deadline: March 15
Eligibility: High school seniors or rising graduates enrolled in an Illinois high school; must be U.S. citizens and provide proof of medical insurance
PRISM at Fermilab is a four-week summer experience crafted for high school seniors and recent grads who want to explore advanced STEM topics. Each week of the program dives into a new theme, ranging from quantum physics and artificial intelligence to experimental engineering and particle research. You’ll participate in hands-on sessions, tour high-tech labs, and learn directly from experts in their fields. By the end, you’ll produce a research abstract and present your findings, giving you a solid foundation in scientific communication. A built-in mentorship component of this science internship for high school students helps you better understand STEM careers and supports your academic goals.
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free; virtual interns are provided a $500 stipend
Dates: 5 weeks (June to August)
Application deadline: December 1–March 1
Eligibility: Open to U.S. high school juniors and seniors
JHIBS is a selective neuroscience-focused internship designed for high school juniors and seniors looking to explore medical research. Whether you join virtually from across the U.S. or attend in person in Baltimore, you’ll be part of a structured, multi-week program that blends lectures, skill-building sessions, and faculty-led mentorship. In the virtual format, the five-week program features online demonstrations, professional development, and mentor support, while the eight-week in-person version involves guided lab research at Johns Hopkins. The focus is on neurobiology, data handling, and research techniques, and all students wrap up by presenting their work. Completing the program also earns you a certificate, adding formal recognition to your experience.
Location: Virtual
Cost: Free
Dates: June 16–July 24
Application deadline: February 7 - March 3
Eligibility: Open to high school juniors and seniors (ages 16–18)
The UCLA Neuroscience High School Scholars Program centers on Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders while exploring the impact of health disparities in diagnosis and treatment outcomes. Designed for students from underrepresented backgrounds, this six-week summer experience includes neuroscience seminars, weekly journal clubs, and guided research projects. You'll engage in neurology grand rounds, interpret scientific literature, and work closely with UCLA faculty. The virtual science internship for high school students concludes with a capstone project that integrates your scientific insights with social and cultural perspectives on neurological disease.
Location: University of Chicago
Cost/Stipend: Paid
Dates: June 16–August 8
Application Deadline: January 12
Eligibility: Current high school seniors starting college in the fall and residing in Chicago; check all criteria on the website
At the Data Science Institute’s Summer Lab at the University of Chicago, you’ll be part of a paid, research-based program where data is the central focus. Open to high school and college students from the Chicago area, this eight-week program places you in active lab environments tackling real-world problems in areas like health science, environmental policy, and machine learning. With mentorship from faculty and grad students, you'll join research teams to work on defined questions while learning how to analyze data, write code, and communicate results effectively. In addition to project work, you’ll take part in lectures, cohort discussions, and career-oriented events that prepare you for future opportunities in computational and scientific fields.
Location: Exploratorium, San Francisco
Stipend: Paid opportunity
Dates: Available throughout the year and during the summer
Application deadline: Applications for year-round and summer programs are typically available in July and March, respectively, on the Current Openings page
Eligibility: Youths ages 15-21, check all criteria on the website
The High School Explainers Program at San Francisco’s Exploratorium is a paid opportunity where students become active facilitators of science learning. Participants undergo more than 60 hours of intensive training in science content, effective communication, and youth development before joining the museum floor. Once trained, you’ll work directly with visitors, lead interactive demonstrations, and assist with the museum’s day-to-day operations. Throughout the science internship for high school students, you can also participate in specialized tracks, including study groups, mentorship opportunities, or thematic internships tied to areas like exhibit design or early childhood education.
Location: Emory University’s Winship Cancer Institute, Atlanta, GA; or virtual
Stipend: $2,400 stipend; no stipend offered for the virtual-only option
Dates: June 9 – July 18
Application deadline: February 9
Eligibility: Rising and graduating high school seniors who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents and 16 or older when the program begins; international and non-resident students can apply for the virtual track
The Winship Cancer Institute at Emory University hosts a six-week, in-person Summer Scholars Research Program tailored for high school students who are interested in oncology and biomedical research. Interns are paired with experienced cancer researchers or clinicians and engage in original research projects in lab or clinical settings. The program features expert-led lectures on cancer biology, treatment, and public health, along with field trips to renowned institutions like the CDC and Georgia Tech. Interns also gain practical laboratory skills and hands-on experience conducting experiments while being closely mentored. The program concludes with a final symposium, where you’ll get to present your findings to a professional audience.
Location: MD Anderson Cancer Center
Cost/Stipend: $6,800 stipend
Dates: June 2–August 8
Application Deadline: January 20
Eligibility: Current Texas high school seniors who are at least 18 years old by the program start; check all criteria on the website
The Carl B. & Florence E. King Foundation High School Summer Program at MD Anderson Cancer Center provides a ten-week immersive experience in biomedical research and allied health careers. You’ll be placed in an active research lab and work full-time under the mentorship of MD Anderson faculty, gaining firsthand experience in the daily workings of a premier cancer research institution. Interns divide their time between conducting experiments, attending scientific seminars, and participating in enrichment activities like poster presentations and elevator pitch competitions. The experience concludes with a formal research presentation and closing celebration to recognize student contributions and achievements.
Location: Stanford University, Stanford, CA
Cost: Free
Dates: June 16 – August 7
Application deadline: February 28
Eligibility: Open to local students from Alameda, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, or Santa Cruz counties. Must be 16+ by start date and hold a minimum 3.0 unweighted GPA, with some prior knowledge of biology, chemistry, or computer programming, through coursework or extracurricular activities.
GRIPS is a summer program for high school students with a strong interest in genomics, bioinformatics, and computational biology. Interns work approximately 20 hours per week for 8 weeks in Stanford labs, where you’ll contribute to real-world projects exploring genetic variation, gene expression, or disease-linked mutations. Each student is assigned a dedicated mentor, with whom they meet regularly to discuss research progress and career goals. In addition to laboratory research, students attend weekly seminars, career panels, and community-building events that foster collaboration and exposure to scientific careers.
Location: California Academy of Sciences, San Francisco, California
Cost/Stipend: Paid
Dates: After school and weekends; multi-year, year-round program lasting 2–3 years until graduation
Application Deadline: April 1
Eligibility: Underrepresented 9th or 10th graders in an SFUSD school with a 2.5 GPA and a grade C or higher in math and science; must commit to 2–3 years of attendance and be able to obtain a valid U.S. work permit
The CiS Intern Program is a multi-year, paid internship hosted by the California Academy of Sciences. Beginning in the summer before sophomore or junior year, interns engage in environmental science research, assist in museum exhibitions, and develop communication and leadership skills. The program includes intensive summer training as well as continued participation during the academic year, with increasing responsibility and specialization over time. Students receive individualized support through college prep workshops, mentoring, and career exploration. Interns also take part in conference presentations, museum planning meetings, and public speaking events. By the end of the program, participants graduate with extensive STEM experience and a strong support network.
Location: New York City, Los Angeles, Miami (virtual + in-person sessions)
Stipend: $500
Dates: June – August (exact dates vary by location)
Application deadline:
Priority deadline: May 4
Final deadline: May 25
Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors attending a New York City (all boroughs), Los Angeles County, Miami-Dade/Broward County, or Atlanta high school; the program prioritizes students who attend schools that meet our Economic Needs Index and who demonstrate financial need, limited career development or tech education access, and/or are first-generation college students.
Through TECH360: Intro to AI, you can explore AI from both a technical and ethical standpoint. The program introduces key concepts like machine learning, data science, and the fundamentals behind predictive and generative AI models. You’ll also examine how AI affects industries and communities, paying close attention to issues like bias and ethical use. A central component of the experience is a group project where you’ll design an AI-based solution and present it to mock clients, strengthening your collaboration and public speaking skills. Standout teams get to present their work during Demo Day in front of a judging panel.
Location: NIH facilities (Research Triangle Park, Durham), NC
Cost/Stipend: Based on educational level and adjusted annually
Dates: 8 weeks in the summer
Application Deadline: February 19
Eligibility: Current high school juniors who will be 17 years old by June 1, are U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
At the NIH Summer Internship Program, you’ll work side-by-side with scientists on current biomedical, clinical, or behavioral research taking place across NIH campuses. You’ll be assigned to a lab under the supervision of a principal investigator, where you’ll contribute to real-world experiments and data analysis. This immersive opportunity also exposes you to areas such as neuroscience, bioinformatics, and epidemiology. Beyond lab work, the science internship for high school students includes sessions on research careers, mental wellness, and the chance to present your findings during a summer poster event.
Location: Department of Emergency Medicine, UNC-Chapel Hill, NC
Cost/Stipend: Paid
Dates: Flexible
Application Deadline: February 24
Eligibility: Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors in North Carolina high schools who are age 16+ by June 1 and have U.S. employment eligibility; minimum CGPA of 2.75 highly recommended
UNC’s ISHTaR internship is designed for high school students who want to experience public health and emergency medicine up close. As a participant, you’ll receive paid experience working with UNC’s Department of Emergency Medicine, where responsibilities range from reviewing medical literature to assisting with educational content and shadowing emergency clinicians. You’ll also get to ride along with EMS professionals and observe their work in real-time. The internship schedule is flexible, allowing you to commit about 20 hours per week during the school year or summer months. Group discussions and book-based seminars round out the experience, helping you critically engage with current health issues from a broader perspective.
Location: George Mason University; Remote & hybrid options available
Cost: $25 application fee with need-based fee waivers available
Dates: June 18 – August 8
Application deadline: February 2
Eligibility: Students must be at least 15 years old for remote internships and at least 16 years old for in-person or hybrid wet-lab internships
Through George Mason University’s ASSIP, you’ll engage in eight weeks of full-time, faculty-mentored STEM research. This competitive program allows you to explore topics like nanotechnology, civil engineering, environmental science, robotics, and biomedical innovation through lab-based or computational projects. You’ll gain hands-on experience while improving your data analysis, scientific writing, and presentation skills. Some students even co-author research publications or present findings at professional conferences. Weekly seminars and networking forums complement your lab work, giving you deeper insight into what a career in science or engineering might look like.
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: $850 + $40 application fee (financial aid available)
Dates: June 16–27
Application Deadline: December 9–February 28
Eligibility: High school students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents and are 14 years or older by the start of the program
This virtual two-week internship from Stanford is ideal if you're interested in the role AI plays in transforming medicine. You’ll attend daily lectures and participate in collaborative assignments that introduce you to core AI techniques as they apply to healthcare challenges. The program covers team-based coding tasks and includes career talks with professionals in the field. A unique aspect is the mentorship component where students who show initiative may have the opportunity to continue working with Stanford mentors even after the internship ends. The fast-paced format also involves tackling real-world problems using AI tools, and those who complete the internship receive a certificate acknowledging their participation.
Location: Bar Harbor, ME
Cost/Stipend: $7,000 stipend
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Competitive
Dates: May 30–August 7
Application Deadline: January 26
Eligibility: High school students who have completed grade 12, are U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, and are at least 18 years old
This paid summer research program places high school students in a ten-week genetics and genomics research environment. You’ll work closely with a research mentor to design and carry out an independent project, gaining experience in experimental planning, data collection, and analysis. The program also features seminars and group discussions that connect individual research efforts to broader scientific and biomedical themes. Students interact regularly with peers pursuing different research questions, creating opportunities for collaboration and knowledge sharing. The experience culminates in a formal presentation, where you present your research findings to mentors, fellow students, and invited audiences.
Location: George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Washington, D.C.
Cost/Stipend: Paid
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: 16 students
Dates: To be announced
Application Deadline: January 30
Eligibility: Current high school sophomores or juniors with at least a 2.0 GPA who attend public schools in the DMV region and plan to pursue a career in medicine or healthcare
The D.C. Health and Academic Prep Program is a four-week summer initiative hosted by GWU’s School of Medicine and Health Sciences. The program introduces participants to a range of healthcare pathways through hands-on skill development and academic exploration. Students gain exposure to basic clinical techniques, learn about public health issues, and complete a health-focused project. Instruction and mentorship are provided by physicians, medical students, and public health professionals. The program also incorporates college preparation support, including academic planning and application guidance. Selected participants may have the opportunity to observe healthcare professionals at GW Hospital following program completion.
Location: Virtual
Cost/Stipend: $500 stipend
Acceptance Rate/Cohort Size: Not specified
Dates: 2 weeks in the summer
Application Deadline: Varies by institute
Eligibility: Rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors who are at least 16 years old when the program starts
The American Cancer Society High School Program is a two-week virtual summer experience centered on cancer science and career exploration. Students work alongside the eCLOSE Institute on guided research activities and case studies related to cancer biology and oncology challenges. The program introduces foundational research practices while highlighting the wide range of roles involved in cancer research and healthcare. You’ll engage in discussions with professionals and peers to better understand pathways in oncology-related fields. Opportunities for networking and career development extend beyond the summer session through year-round programming.
One other option—the Lumiere Research Scholar Program
If you’re interested in pursuing independent research, consider applying to one of the Lumiere Research Scholar Programs, selective online high school programs for students founded with researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4,000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here, check out students’ reviews of the program here and here.
Also check out the Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation, a non-profit research program for talented, low-income students. Last year, we had 150 students on full need-based financial aid!
Stephen is one of the founders of Lumiere and a graduate of Harvard College, where he earned an A.B. in Statistics. He founded Lumiere as a PhD student at Harvard Business School. Lumiere is a selective research program where students work 1-1 with a research mentor to develop an independent research paper.
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