Aspiring young scientists often seek to learn and garner valuable scientific expertise not available in their high school curriculum. Fortunately, summer programs provide an avenue for students to advance their scientific education and research skills.
There’s no need for you to spend your summer hunting for the best science-led summer programs. Known for its rigorous standards, Pioneer Academics has conducted all the necessary work. Applying the same level of expectations, we have chosen some of the best summer opportunities to save you time and energy.
Advice from a Former Admissions Officer
Brett Fuller
Academic Development Manager | Pioneer Academics
Former Associate Dean of Undergraduate Admissions, Wake Forest University
Former Senior Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions
Important note: The “best” program is always going to be the program that best fits your needs, goals, and interests. Check out my thoughts on things to consider when selecting a summer program here: College Application: Tips on Selecting a Summer Program Meeting Admission Officers’ Standards.
As you know, Pioneer has proven that undergraduate caliber research does not need to be done in a lab. Students can pursue rigorous research in any field without setting foot in a lab or on a college campus. But, if one of your primary objectives for seeking research is to gain a sense of the inner workings of a lab, there are a number of programs that can offer that experience.
As always, be sure to consider the program as a whole when weighing opportunities. What other goals do you have? Are you hoping to work with a faculty member, graduate student, or group of peers? Are you comfortable in large group settings or would you prefer to work one-on-one or in small groups? Are you interested in working on a research topic of your own choosing or are you comfortable with continuing research that has already begun? There are no right answers, but these are questions worth asking yourself.
💡Bonus tips for choosing the right academic programs:
Pioneer Academics
Pioneer Academics, the world’s only fully accredited online research program for high school students, delivers a distinctive opportunity for high-achieving students worldwide. This accreditation ensures each participant’s research experience is recognized on par with that of undergraduate students from top universities, and even offers college credit.
The program offers a full spectrum of research areas, such as computer science and the physical sciences. Under the guidance of seasoned mentors, students foster their curiosity and ambition, leading to an independent research project.
With Pioneer’s rigorous academic system and stringent educational standards, students can broaden their intellectual boundaries and push their ambition. The pinnacle of the program is the selection of top performers, representing the top 3% for publication in The Pioneer Research Journal.
Human Oncology & Pathogenesis Program – Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center’s Human Oncology & Pathogenesis Program (HOPP) is one of the highly anticipated summer programs this year where high school students can gain hands-on experience in laboratory techniques and conduct independent research. The eight-week program, running from June 28 to August 23, 2023, provides mentorship and training sessions in translational research. At the end of the summer, students present their research at a poster session. The program seeks goal-oriented students with a passion for science, particularly encouraging applications from those from underprivileged backgrounds. A stipend is given upon completion of the program.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Program Dates | June 28th – August 23th, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | February 10th, 2023 |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Program Dates | June 28th – August 23th, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | February 10th, 2023 |
SPARK Summer Internship Program – SPARK Sip
Dedicated to the intellectual and emotional preparation of high school students in the Greater Seattle area, the SPARK Summer Internship Program is a gateway to intense and hands-on learning experiences. This summer program connects dedicated students with industry experts, educators, and community leaders from a broad range of organizations. The primary mission is to provide practical exposure to a professional environment, enabling these high school students to interact with well-established professors and leaders in various industries. The vision: to be a bridge that links students to the opportunities that lie ahead.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Program Dates | June - August 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | April 2023 (Depends on Program) |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Program Dates | June - August 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | April 2023 (Depends on Program) |
Laboratory Learning Program – Princeton University
The Laboratory Learning Program, facilitated by Princeton University, offers students a unique opportunity to partake in a free, full-time summer research experience in a science or engineering program of their choice. Unlike a summer camp, this program immerses students in ongoing research programs, closely overseen by Princeton faculty and research staff. Each research opportunity boasts its unique schedule over a typical span of 5-6 weeks during summer office hours. Participants, who must be 16 years or older and enrolled in a high school, are required to submit a two-page research summary at the program’s conclusion.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Program Dates | Summer 2023 (dependent on program) |
| Application Deadline(s) | March 15th, 2023 |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Program Dates | Summer 2023 (dependent on program) |
| Application Deadline(s) | March 15th, 2023 |
Careers in Science (CiS) Intern Program – California Academy of Sciences
The Careers in Science (CiS) Intern Program is a remarkable opportunity presented by the California Academy of Sciences. Specifically designed for high school students from communities traditionally underrepresented in STEM fields, including young women and students of color, the program extends beyond the summer and into a multi-year, year-round commitment. Sophomores and high school juniors who demonstrate an enthusiasm for science can delve into applied research, teaching, and learning activities. CiS interns will be truly immersed in the life sciences and are expected to conduct research and fieldwork, facilitate interactive learning experiences, and participate in science project groups. The program, recognized by the 2022 Presidential Award for Excellence in Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentorship, is a testament to the Academy’s commitment to fostering young, motivated students’ scientific curiosity and potential.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Program Dates | Multi-year, year-round participation |
| Application Deadline(s) | April 3rd, 2023 |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Program Dates | Multi-year, year-round participation |
| Application Deadline(s) | April 3rd, 2023 |
The Science Research Mentoring Program (SRMP) – American Museum of Natural History
The American Museum of Natural History’s Science Research Mentoring Program (SRMP) provides a unique opportunity for students in New York high schools. Spanning from August to June, SRMP immerses students into the world of scientific research, working on innovative projects under the guidance of museum scientists. Students learn diverse skills like DNA analysis, data processing, and computer programming. The 2023-2024 academic year brings an exciting addition: a special focus on Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence in research. The one-year study experience also includes a three-week summer science program that includes immersive fieldwork. SRMP is a remarkable platform for high school juniors and sophomores to gain hands-on experience, hone critical skills, and build a community of like-minded peers with similar academic goals.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Program Dates | August 2023 to June 2024 (One year—2 afternoons a week after school, minimum of 2 hours per session) |
| Application Deadline(s) | March 5, 2023 |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Program Dates | August 2023 to June 2024 (One year—2 afternoons a week after school, minimum of 2 hours per session) |
| Application Deadline(s) | March 5, 2023 |
UChicago Data Science Institute Summer Lab Program– University of Chicago
The UChicago Data Science Institute Summer Lab Program is an immersive program spanning ten weeks long that is dedicated to widening participation in data science. This initiative from the University of Chicago caters to both high school and undergraduate students (college or university). The summer lab pairs participants with data science mentors from diverse academic fields. They will work as part of a team on a central research project under the Social Impact Track. Project topics include environmental science, human rights, machine learning, food and agriculture, and more. An astrophysics program is also listed among the topics that students can work on. The program is spent working on honing research skills and creating a project based on applied data science. The culmination is an end-of-summer symposium where participants present their findings via a video presentation.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Program Dates | June 12th – August 18th, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | February 12th, 2023 |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Program Dates | June 12th – August 18th, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | February 12th, 2023 |
Summer Research Internship – Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience
The Summer Research Internship at the Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience is composed of intense summer science programs for high school students entering their junior or senior years. Students spend six weeks in an internship that offers hands-on research in neuroscience, scientific programming, and mechanical engineering. Eligibility is restricted to students legally authorized to work in the U.S. and enrolled in Palm Beach or Martin County schools. The program emphasizes the importance of independent study and investigation projects, with each high school student preparing a scientific abstract and delivering a presentation at the conclusion of their internship.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Program Dates | June 12 – July 21, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | N/A |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Program Dates | June 12 – July 21, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | N/A |
QuarkNet Summer Research Program – Fermilab
One of the most-awaited summer programs for students with a deep-rooted passion for science and mathematics, the QuarkNet Summer Research Program provides an exceptional gateway to hands-on research experience. This unique summer program that includes lab time invites students to collaborate with Fermilab scientists for a period of seven weeks, engaging in projects aligned with the lab’s research program. Students choose their areas of study, although the specifics of the investigative study programs vary annually depending on the lab’s ongoing work. The program, co-sponsored by the College of DuPage, is open to pre-college students currently enrolled in Illinois and holding U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Program Dates | June 20th – August 4th, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | January 31st, 2023 |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Program Dates | June 20th – August 4th, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | January 31st, 2023 |
Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program – Stanford University
The Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR) is one of the most-awaited medically-oriented pre-college summer programs. It is an eight-week program and a hands-on introduction to biomedical research. High school juniors and seniors conduct study projects under the guidance of Stanford faculty members, researchers, college students, and postdoctoral fellows. The program aims to foster interest in the biological sciences and medicine, familiarize students with the workings of formal scientific research, and promote diversity in the scientific community.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Program Dates | June 12th- August 3rd, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | February 25th, 2023 |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Program Dates | June 12th- August 3rd, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | February 25th, 2023 |
Eugene and Ruth Roberts Summer Student Academy – City of Hope
The Eugene and Ruth Roberts Summer Student Academy at City of Hope offers high school and university students a hands-on research experience in biomedical research. Students design and execute their own research projects, mentored by City of Hope faculty members and working alongside lab personnel. The summer program emphasizes the development of oral and written communication skills, as participants present their findings in a weekly seminar series and produce a written report at the end of the project. In addition to lab meetings, students attend program meetings and seminars on various scientific topics and career-focused discussions, providing insight into the world of scientists and doctors. Some students give oral presentations on their projects, covering objectives, methods, results, and future directions.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Program Dates | June 5th - August 11th, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | March 16th, 2023 |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | Free |
| Program Dates | June 5th - August 11th, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | March 16th, 2023 |
Stones and Bones Paleontology Program
The Stones and Bones Field School is an immersive summer program offered by the University of Chicago. Aimed at high school students interested in archaeology and anthropology, the program provides hands-on experience in the excavation and analysis of archaeological sites. Participants work alongside experienced faculty and researchers, gaining practical skills in field techniques, artifact identification, and data interpretation. The program offers a unique opportunity to explore ancient civilizations, unravel historical mysteries, and understand human culture through material remains. Through lectures, field trips, and laboratory work, students engage in a comprehensive learning experience. The Stones and Bones Field School enables young scholars to develop a deep appreciation for the past while fostering critical thinking, teamwork, and research skills essential for the field of archaeology.| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | $11,400 (includes tuition for two courses, room & board, Student Life Fee, and transportation between Chicago and Wyoming) |
| Program Dates | June 12th - July 7th, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Rolling basis till slots are filled |
| Format | In-person |
|---|---|
| Cost | $11,400 (includes tuition for two courses, room & board, Student Life Fee, and transportation between Chicago and Wyoming) |
| Program Dates | June 12th - July 7th, 2023 |
| Application Deadline(s) | Rolling basis till slots are filled |
💡Bonus tips in choosing the right academic programs:
Doing research is commonplace.
