50 Science Internships for High School Students (2026)

When looking for extracurricular activities to enhance your college applications, many students consider internships and apprenticeships. Internships are highly beneficial, especially if they are related to your potential field of study or your interests. By choosing an internship in your field of interest, you can determine if a major career path or interest is what you truly want to pursue before committing to studying or working in that area.

Are you looking to follow a future within the science field? You may be surprised to hear there are many high school science internships you can participate in before you graduate to help develop valuable skills and knowledge that will follow you into your future. However, keep in mind that these internships are not just any internships, they are exclusive opportunities that only a select few get to experience. Read on to learn more about the types of science internships available and see if you qualify to apply!

High school internships are highly rewarding for several reasons. Firstly, they provide hands-on experience, allowing students to develop practical skills not typically taught in the classroom, such as technical expertise specific to a field and essential soft skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Internships also offer a chance for career exploration, helping students make more informed decisions about their future education and career paths. Additionally, these opportunities facilitate networking with professionals, which can lead to future job prospects, mentorship, and valuable guidance.

Moreover, internships enhance college applications by demonstrating a student's initiative, dedication, and proactive approach to learning. They show that the student is serious about their future and willing to gain real-world experience. But the benefits don't stop there. This early work experience is an investment in your future, boosting your confidence as you learn to navigate professional settings, take on responsibilities, and see the tangible results of your efforts. It also strengthens your employment resume, providing concrete examples of skills and accomplishments that set you apart when applying for jobs, scholarships, and other opportunities. Internships allow you to apply academic knowledge to real-world scenarios, reinforcing your learning and highlighting the relevance of your education.

Video: Why are Internships So Important?

Check out these articles here:

• Internships: What and Why You Need to Know Before College
• How Empowerly's High School Internship Program Helped Me
• How High School Internships Enhance Your College Journey

Important note: While the deadlines for many of these programs may have already passed, keeping their applications in mind if you consider applying to a different cohort is essential. Since many of the applications are highly competitive, being mindful of the requirements to be considered for a spot as you progress through the school year will give you the best chance of being accepted when next year's application deadlines come around. Now, let’s get into the science internships available!

The NASA High School Internship Program allows students to gain valuable experience while participating in real-world projects with some of the world's top scientific minds. This is not just an internship, it's a chance to contribute to real scientific research that could change the world. Students can participate in several internships, both paid and unpaid, in various sectors of the STEM field, including aeronautics, biology, health, climate change, environmental studies, and more.

Eligibility: U.S. citizens with a minimum GPA of 3.0.

Duration: 10 weeks during summer.

MIT's Research Science Institute (RSI) is a prestigious summer program for high school students passionate about science and engineering. Held on the MIT campus, RSI offers a unique blend of advanced coursework, hands-on research, and mentorship from leading scientists and engineers. Throughout the program, students will attend lectures, conduct experiments, and collaborate with peers, gaining invaluable experience and insights into scientific research that will inform their future passions and aspirations. RSI is widely considered the most selective high school STEM program in the world, with an acceptance rate under 5%.

Eligibility: High school juniors with exceptional academic records.

Duration: 6 weeks.

The Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR) is a highly competitive summer program that offers high school students the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge biomedical research at Stanford University. Over eight weeks, participants will work closely with Stanford faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students on independent research projects in cancer biology, genetics, neurobiology, and bioengineering. Through hands-on laboratory experience, students will learn advanced scientific techniques and methodologies while contributing to ongoing research!

Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors at the time of application (as of the spring of 2024) living in and attending school in the U.S.

Duration: 8 weeks.

Video: How I spent my summer: three interns, three perspectives

The Smithsonian Internship offers high school students an incredible opportunity to immerse themselves in museums, research, and cultural preservation. This program, available at various Smithsonian museums and research facilities across the United States, allows students to work alongside professionals, participate in hands-on projects, and explore their interests in history, science, art, and culture. Whether assisting with exhibitions, conducting research, or engaging with the public, interns gain valuable skills and insights that extend far beyond the classroom. 

Eligibility: High school students aged 16 and older.

Duration: Varies by program.

The Jackson Laboratory Summer Student Program offers high school students a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in cutting-edge biomedical research. Located in Bar Harbor, Maine, this program allows students to work alongside renowned scientists, gaining hands-on experience in genetics, genomics, and other areas of biomedical science. Participants conduct independent research projects, attend seminars and workshops, and engage in discussions with leading experts in the field. This immersive experience enhances students' understanding of scientific research and prepares them for future academic and professional endeavors in biomedicine.

Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors.

Duration: 10 weeks.

The NIH High School Summer Internship Program (HS-SIP) offers high school students passionate about science hands-on experience in biomedical research. Participants work alongside NIH researchers and scientists, engaging in cutting-edge research projects ranging from molecular biology to computational neuroscience. Through this immersive experience, students develop valuable laboratory skills and better understand the scientific process and potential career paths within the biomedical sciences world.

Eligibility: Junior or senior high school students 17 years of age or older at the start of the program.

Duration: 8 weeks.

The Marine Mammal Center Youth Crew Internship is a dynamic program for high school students passionate about marine biology and conservation. Located in Sausalito, California, the Marine Mammal Center is a leading facility dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating marine mammals. The Youth Crew Internship allows students to work directly with these animals, gaining hands-on experience in marine mammal care and veterinary science. Interns assist with daily tasks such as feeding, cleaning, and monitoring rescued animals' health while participating in educational workshops and conservation activities.

Eligibility: High school students aged 15-18.

Duration: January through August

The Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard Summer Research Program is an intensive and transformative experience for high school students interested in biomedical and genomic research. Students accepted into the program will work alongside leading scientists and researchers at one of the world's premier research institutions, engaging in cutting-edge research projects exploring cancer genomics, infectious disease, and computational biology. In addition to hands-on laboratory work, the program includes seminars, workshops, and networking events designed to broaden students' scientific knowledge and professional connections.

Eligibility: Be a rising senior in high school, attend a high school in MA within commuting distance to the Broad, have earned a B or better in science and math classes, and be a US citizen, permanent resident, or non-US citizen with employment authorization (,i.e., DACA)

Duration: 6 weeks.

Video: How Broad’s summer research programs have helped launched careers in STEM

The New York Academy of Sciences Junior Academy is an innovative project-based learning program that empowers talented high school students worldwide to collaborate on real-world science and technology challenges. As members of the Junior Academy, students join a global online community of young innovators, scientists, and problem-solvers, working together on projects that address critical issues such as climate change, public health, and sustainable development. Through this program, participants gain access to expert mentorship, online courses, and a wealth of resources designed to enhance their research, teamwork, and critical thinking skills.

Eligibility: High school students aged 13-17.

Duration: 10 weeks.

The Boston University Research in Science & Engineering (RISE) Internship is a prestigious program that offers high school juniors and seniors a chance to engage in university-level research. Over six weeks during the summer, participants work under the mentorship of Boston University faculty members in cutting-edge research laboratories. The RISE Internship provides a comprehensive experience where students delve into research topics such as biology, chemistry, engineering, and physics. In addition to hands-on laboratory work, interns participate in a seminar series designed to enhance their understanding of scientific methods, data analysis, and presentation skills. The program culminates in a poster session where students present their findings to the BU academic community.

Eligibility: High school juniors.

Duration: 6 weeks

Video: Research in Science & Engineering (RISE) - Internship/Practicum

The Scripps Research Institute High School Internship is an esteemed program that offers high school students an exceptional opportunity to participate in advanced scientific research. This internship, hosted by one of the world’s leading biomedical research institutions, allows students to collaborate with top-tier scientists and researchers in cutting-edge laboratories. Throughout the program, interns are involved in hands-on research projects that explore molecular biology, chemistry, neuroscience, and drug discovery. In addition to laboratory work, students will attend seminars and workshops to enhance their understanding of scientific principles and research methodologies. The program strongly emphasizes mentorship, with experienced researchers guiding students through the complexities of scientific investigation and promoting critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors attending schools within the La Jolla, San Diego area.

Duration: 8 weeks.

The NOAA High School Internship Program allows high school students to immerse themselves in environmental science and marine research. Hosted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), this program provides interns hands-on experience in various fields, including marine biology, meteorology, oceanography, and environmental conservation. Participants work alongside NOAA scientists and researchers, contributing to real-world projects to understand and protect our planet's natural resources. The internship includes fieldwork, laboratory research, and data analysis, providing a comprehensive understanding of the scientific process. Additionally, students attend workshops and seminars that enhance their knowledge of current environmental issues and scientific techniques.

Eligibility: Varies by program; 9th-12th grade students can apply to most.

Duration: Varies by program.

The Caltech Summer Research Connection (SRC) is a prestigious program for high school students and educators to engage in cutting-edge scientific research at the California Institute of Technology. This immersive summer experience allows participants to work alongside Caltech researchers on projects spanning various scientific disciplines, including physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering. Throughout the program, students and teachers gain hands-on laboratory experience, developing critical research skills and a deeper understanding of scientific inquiry. The SRC emphasizes collaboration and mentorship, with participants receiving guidance from leading scientists and graduate students. In addition to laboratory work, the program includes seminars, workshops, and opportunities to present research findings, fostering a dynamic and supportive learning environment. The Caltech SRC enhances scientific knowledge and technical abilities and inspires participants to pursue careers in STEM fields, providing a solid foundation for future academic and professional endeavors.

Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors attending Pasadena Unified School District schools.

Duration: 6 weeks.

The Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) High School Internship is a prestigious program for high school students to engage in advanced scientific research and innovation. Located in Livermore, California, LLNL is renowned for its cutting-edge work in national security, energy, and environmental science. Through this internship, students work alongside world-class scientists and engineers, participating in research projects that can include areas such as computational modeling, materials science, and biotechnology. The program provides hands-on experience in state-of-the-art laboratories, where interns learn to use sophisticated equipment and technologies. In addition to their research work, students attend seminars and workshops that deepen their understanding of scientific principles and current technological challenges. 

Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors.

Duration: Varies.

Video: Ready for your LLNL internship?

The Roswell Park Cancer Institute Summer Research Experience provides high school students an experience to delve into cancer research at one of the nation’s premier cancer treatment and research centers. Located in Buffalo, New York, this program immerses participants in cutting-edge research projects aimed at understanding and combating cancer. Interns work alongside leading scientists and clinicians, gaining hands-on experience in laboratory techniques, data analysis, and experimental design. The program also includes seminars, workshops, and mentoring sessions that enhance participants' knowledge of oncology and biomedical research. Through this comprehensive experience, students develop valuable technical and analytical skills and gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of cancer biology and the latest advancements in treatment and prevention.

Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors, be a resident of Western New York, U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and be 15 years or older at the program's start.

Duration: 6 weeks.

The Fred Hutch Summer High School Internship Program is an immersive internship where students can learn biomedical research at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, Washington. This intensive program offers hands-on laboratory experience, allowing interns to work alongside world-renowned scientists and researchers on cutting-edge projects in cancer biology, immunology, infectious diseases, and other areas of biomedical science. Through mentorship and participation in seminars and workshops, interns gain valuable skills in research methodology, data analysis, and scientific communication.

Eligibility: A high school student entering senior year after the summer, with a strong scientific interest and academic background, the ability to attend a Zoom interview with the selection committee, and availability for the entire duration of the program in Seattle.

Duration: 8 weeks.

Video: Fred Hutch - Internship Opportunties

The American Museum of Natural History (AMNH) Science Research Mentoring Program supports high school students interested in science, research, and exploration in a one-year-long scientific research mentorship program. Based in New York City, this program allows students to work closely with museum scientists on ongoing research projects in various fields, including anthropology, astrophysics, biology, and geology. During the mentorship program, students will gain valuable research experiences, develop valuable scientific skills and knowledge, gain insight into the research process, and contribute fundamental real scientific discoveries.

Eligibility: Applicants must either a) first complete a course in the Science and Nature Program, Science Alliance Middle School Program, or Science Alliance High School Program OR b) attend one of the American Museum of Natural History’s partner schools or programs.

Duration: 1 year.

The Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Partners for the Future Program provides students with hands-on biomedical research at one of the world's leading research institutions. Located in Cold Spring Harbor, New York, this program pairs students with mentors who are scientists at the laboratory, allowing them to work on cutting-edge research projects in fields such as genetics, neuroscience, and cancer biology. Participants gain valuable laboratory skills and experience through full-time immersion in the research process, from experimental design to data analysis.

Eligibility: High school seniors nominated by their school science chairperson.

Duration: 8 months.

Video: High School Students Become Partners For the Future at Cold Spring Harbor Labs

The Brookhaven National Laboratory High School Research Program offers a transformative experience for high school students interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Located in Upton, New York, this program allows students to engage in hands-on research alongside world-class scientists and engineers at one of the nation's premier research institutions. Participants work on cutting-edge research projects in physics, chemistry, biology, environmental science, and computational science, gaining valuable skills and knowledge that prepare them for future academic and professional endeavors.

Eligibility: High school students who have completed 11th grade and are at least 16 years old by the start of the program, available Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 5:00 pm for during the program, are U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and can commute to and from the laboratory.

Duration: 6 weeks.

Video: My Story: the High School Research Program

The Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP) provides high school students with a unique experience in engaging in hands-on research at Department of Defense laboratories. This highly competitive program pairs students with mentors who are scientists and engineers, allowing them to work on cutting-edge research projects in fields such as biology, chemistry, physics, engineering, and environmental science. Through full-time immersion in the research process, participants gain valuable skills and experience that prepare them for future academic and professional endeavors in STEM fields. SEAP is a paid internship — students receive a stipend during the program.

Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors who are 16 years of age or older by the internship program start, and are U.S. citizens.

Duration: 8 weeks.

Video: SEAP Internship

The UC Santa Barbara Research Mentorship Program offers high school students a chance to engage in university-level research in various fields. Hosted by the University of California, Santa Barbara, this program pairs students with faculty mentors who guide them through hands-on research projects while immersed in the UC Santa Barbara University environment. Participants within the program gain valuable experience in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication, all of which are excellent experiences that will help students find their path in the STEM field and beyond.

Video: Research Mentorship Program

Eligibility: High school students in the 10th or 11th grade (outstanding 9th graders accepted on a case-by-case basis) have a minimum 3.80 academic weighted GPA requirement,and can attend the program, starting with the virtual component and ending with the closing events.

Duration: 6 weeks.

The Los Alamos National Laboratory High School Internship Program offers students a unique opportunity to engage in cutting-edge scientific research at one of the world's leading research institutions. Located in Los Alamos, New Mexico, this program allows students to work alongside top scientists and engineers on projects that address critical national security challenges, such as nuclear weapons, cybersecurity, and environmental protection. Participants gain hands-on experience in various scientific disciplines, including physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering. The program also includes seminars, workshops, and networking events that expose students to the breadth and depth of research conducted at the laboratory.

Eligibility: High school seniors aged 16 years and older, have a GPA of 3.0+ out of 4, attend a New Mexico High School, and pass a drug test.

Duration: Varies. 

The Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) Janelia-Low Summer Internship offers a unique chance for high school students to engage in cutting-edge research at the Janelia Research Campus in Ashburn, Virginia. This prestigious program allows students to work alongside mentors in neuroscience, imaging, and computational bio scientistslogy. Interns participate in hands-on research projects, gaining valuable laboratory experience and insight into the scientific process. 

Eligibility: High school students who have demonstrated high academic standards and experience in scientific research.

Duration: 8 weeks.

Video: Janelia Research Campus High School Internship Program 2018

The CERN High School Student Internship Program offers a unique and immersive experience for students interested in physics and engineering. Hosted by the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) in Geneva, Switzerland, this program allows students to shadow staff and experience cutting-edge research projects alongside world-renowned scientists and engineers. Participants engage in hands-on work, gaining valuable skills and insights into particle physics. The program also includes lectures, workshops, and tours of CERN facilities, giving students a comprehensive understanding of the scientific principles and technologies used in particle physics research.

Eligibility: High school students aged 16 and older (students under the age of 18 applying to job shadow must be accompanied by an adult, and if you are not living in the area, you need to ensure that you and your parents/legal guardian have the financial means to stay in the region).

Duration: Varies but typically around one month.

Local university science internships offer high school students interested in STEM fields valuable hands-on experience. These internships allow students to work alongside university researchers and faculty, gaining insight into ongoing research projects and cutting-edge technologies. Participants often have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and equipment, allowing them to develop practical skills and techniques not typically available in a high school setting. Additionally, these internships can help students explore potential career paths, build professional networks, and strengthen their college applications.

Eligibility: Varies by program.

Duration: Varies by program.

The MIT Program for Research In Mathematics, Engineering and Science (PRIMES) is a year-long research program that pairs high school students with MIT faculty and graduate student mentors. Students conduct original research in mathematics, computer science, computational biology, and other STEM fields. Worth knowing for 2026: PRIMES is completely free for participants and is widely considered one of the most prestigious year-long research programs in the country, with many alumni publishing in peer-reviewed journals.

Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors living within commuting distance of the MIT campus (Cambridge, MA).

Duration: 1 year (September-May).

The Simons Summer Research Program at Stony Brook University offers high-achieving high school students the opportunity to engage in hands-on research with faculty mentors. Participants work on research projects across disciplines including physics, chemistry, mathematics, computer science, biology, and engineering. The program culminates in a research poster symposium where students present their findings. Worth noting for 2026: many Simons fellows have used their research to compete in Regeneron Science Talent Search and Intel ISEF competitions.

Eligibility: Juniors who will be 16 by program start, attend a U.S. high school, and are U.S. citizens or permanent residents.

Duration: 7 weeks.

The University of Pennsylvania Summer Mentorship Program (SMP) is a four-week intensive program that immerses high school students in academic and professional environments at Penn's professional schools, including medicine, dental, nursing, veterinary medicine, and law. Participants gain exposure to a wide range of career paths, work alongside professionals, and develop skills that will help them succeed in college and beyond.

Eligibility: Philadelphia high school students entering 11th or 12th grade, from underrepresented backgrounds in healthcare.

Duration: 4 weeks.

The Garcia Center Research Scholars Program at Stony Brook University offers high school students a unique opportunity to conduct hands-on research in polymer science, biomaterials, and nanotechnology. Worth knowing: the Garcia Program is one of the few high school programs that emphasizes materials science and engineering research, providing a strong foundation for students interested in advanced engineering or chemistry careers.

Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, or seniors with strong science and math backgrounds.

Duration: 7 weeks.

The Telluride Association Summer Seminar (TASS) is a free, six-week residential program for high school sophomores and juniors interested in the humanities and social sciences. While not strictly a science internship, TASS includes science-policy components and is highly regarded by top universities. Big news for 2026: TASS provides full scholarships covering tuition, room, board, and books — all costs covered for accepted students.

Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors with strong academic records and intellectual curiosity.

Duration: 6 weeks.

The Bank of America Student Leaders Program connects high school juniors and seniors with paid summer internships at local nonprofit organizations. While not exclusively science-focused, many positions involve public health, environmental science, or STEM education nonprofits. Worth noting for 2026: this is a paid internship ($16-20/hour typical) plus an all-expenses-paid Student Leadership Summit in Washington, D.C.

Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors with demonstrated leadership and community engagement.

Duration: 8 weeks (summer).

The Memorial Sloan Kettering HOPP Summer Student Program at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center provides high school students with hands-on experience in cancer research. Located in New York City, this program offers participants the opportunity to work alongside leading scientists conducting cutting-edge cancer biology research. Big news for 2026: HOPP is one of the most selective biomedical research programs for high schoolers in the country, with an acceptance rate well under 10%.

Eligibility: High school juniors or seniors at least 16 years old, residing in the NYC area.

Duration: 8 weeks.

The CDC Disease Detective Camp at the David J. Sencer CDC Museum is a free week-long program that immerses rising high school juniors and seniors in epidemiology, public health, and disease investigation. Participants learn from CDC scientists and public health experts. Worth knowing for 2026: with infectious disease and pandemic preparedness a growing focus, public health careers have become one of the fastest-growing STEM fields.

Eligibility: Rising high school juniors and seniors.

Duration: 1 week (free program).

The Stanford AI4ALL program is a three-week residential summer program designed for high school students from underrepresented backgrounds interested in artificial intelligence and machine learning. Hosted at Stanford University, the program covers AI fundamentals, ethics, and applications. Big news for 2026: AI-focused programs are among the fastest-growing high school STEM opportunities, with Stanford AI4ALL admitting students from across the U.S.

Eligibility: Rising 9th-grade female and non-binary students from underrepresented backgrounds.

Duration: 3 weeks (residential).

The NSLC Medicine & Health Care program offers immersive 9-day programs at top universities (UC Berkeley, Yale, American University, Northwestern). Participants explore medical specialties through hands-on workshops, simulated surgeries, and meetings with healthcare professionals. Worth noting: NSLC is paid (tuition required) but offers a competitive university-affiliated experience.

Eligibility: Current high school freshmen, sophomores, and juniors.

Duration: 9 days.

The NCBI (National Center for Biotechnology Information) Coding the Life Sciences Internship offers high school students the chance to learn computational biology through hands-on coding projects with the NIH. Big news for 2026: bioinformatics and computational biology are among the fastest-growing STEM career paths, with NCBI internships providing some of the strongest entry-level exposure.

Eligibility: Varies; typically high school juniors and seniors with strong programming experience.

Duration: 8 weeks (summer).

The Anson L. Clark Scholars Program at Texas Tech University is a seven-week summer research program for high school juniors and seniors. Scholars work one-on-one with Texas Tech faculty in various STEM fields. Worth knowing for 2026: the program is fully funded — tuition, room, board, and a $750 tax-free stipend are all included.

Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors at least 17 years old.

Duration: 7 weeks.

The Pennington Biomedical Research Center Summer Internship at Louisiana State University offers high school students the chance to participate in nutrition, obesity, and diabetes research. Worth noting for 2026: this program is one of the few that focuses specifically on metabolic disease research — an increasingly important area in biomedical science.

Eligibility: Louisiana high school juniors and seniors.

Duration: 8 weeks.

The New York Genome Center Summer Internship offers high school students hands-on exposure to genomics and computational biology research. Worth knowing for 2026: with genomics continuing to transform medicine through personalized treatment and gene editing, this internship provides cutting-edge exposure to one of the most innovative STEM fields.

Eligibility: New York-area high school juniors and seniors.

Duration: 8-10 weeks.

The UCLA Pre-College Summer Institutes offer subject-specific intensive programs including Computer Science Summer Institute, Game Lab, and Biomedical Research Summer Programs. Worth noting for 2026: while not full internships, these institutes provide strong introductory research experience and UCLA campus exposure for prospective applicants.

Eligibility: High school students aged 14-18.

Duration: 2-4 weeks (varies by institute).

The Mayo Clinic SURF Pre-College Track offers high school students hands-on research experience at one of the world's premier medical institutions. Big news for 2026: Mayo Clinic has expanded its high school programs significantly, recognizing the need to develop early STEM talent pipelines.

Eligibility: Rising high school seniors with demonstrated research interest.

Duration: 10 weeks.

The Argonne National Laboratory ESRP (Exemplary Student Research Program) provides high school students with research experience at one of the U.S. Department of Energy's premier national laboratories. Participants work on projects in physics, chemistry, materials science, and computer science. Worth knowing for 2026: Argonne offers some of the most advanced scientific computing and supercomputing exposure available to high school students.

Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors at participating Chicago-area schools.

Duration: Varies (typically 6-8 weeks).

The Carnegie Mellon Pre-College Computational Biology Program immerses high school students in the intersection of biology, computer science, and mathematics. Worth noting for 2026: with computational biology becoming increasingly important in drug discovery, genomics, and personalized medicine, this program prepares students for one of the fastest-growing STEM career paths.

Eligibility: High school sophomores and juniors.

Duration: 6 weeks.

The Princeton Laboratory Learning Program is a free 5-6 week summer research program for high school juniors interested in science and engineering. Participants work in Princeton faculty laboratories on projects spanning physics, chemistry, biology, engineering, and computer science.

Eligibility: High school juniors with strong science backgrounds, primarily from New Jersey.

Duration: 5-6 weeks (free program).

The Three Rivers Science Communication Internship and similar programs at major science museums (Boston Museum of Science, California Academy of Sciences, Field Museum) offer high school students experience in science communication, public engagement, and museum education. Worth knowing for 2026: science communication careers are growing as scientific literacy becomes increasingly important.

Eligibility: High school students aged 14-18, varies by location.

Duration: Summer programs typically 6-10 weeks.

The CHOP Summer Research Programs offer high school students hands-on biomedical and clinical research experience at one of the nation's premier pediatric hospitals. Worth noting for 2026: CHOP's research programs are particularly strong in pediatric oncology, genetics, and immunology — fields where significant clinical advances are happening.

Eligibility: Philadelphia-area high school juniors and seniors.

Duration: 8 weeks.

The Bigelow Laboratory for Ocean Sciences Summer Research Internship offers high school and undergraduate students an immersive marine science research experience in Boothbay, Maine. Big news for 2026: with climate change and ocean health becoming critical global priorities, marine science programs have grown in importance.

Eligibility: High school seniors and undergraduate students with strong science backgrounds.

Duration: 10 weeks (summer).

The Tufts University TEAOI Summer Programs offer high school students exposure to engineering fields including biomedical engineering, mechanical engineering, and chemical engineering. Worth noting for 2026: engineering admissions have become increasingly competitive at top universities, making early engineering exposure valuable for college applications.

Eligibility: High school juniors and rising seniors.

Duration: 4-6 weeks (varies by program).

The UCSF Summer Student Research Program offers high school students the opportunity to engage in biomedical research alongside UCSF faculty and graduate students. Big news for 2026: UCSF expanded its high school outreach significantly in 2024-2025, recognizing the need for early exposure to medical research careers.

Eligibility: San Francisco Bay Area high school juniors and seniors, with priority to underrepresented backgrounds in STEM.

Duration: 8 weeks.

The Empowerly Research Scholar Program is a comprehensive research mentorship program designed to help high school students develop authentic, publishable research projects under the guidance of expert mentors from top universities. Worth knowing for 2026: as research experience has become one of the most important differentiators in competitive college admissions (especially with the test-required wave at top universities), Empowerly's Research Scholar Program provides personalized 1:1 mentorship for students who can't access traditional university-based research opportunities.

Eligibility: High school students with strong academic backgrounds and demonstrated interest in research.

Duration: 3-12 months (customizable).

Participating in a science internship during high school offers invaluable experience, enhances college applications, and helps students explore potential career paths. These internships allow students to gain first hand expertise in the scientific field and can even provide a chance to earn some money during the summer or school year!

As mentioned earlier, many of these internships are high caliber and quite competitive. But not to worry! Empowerly is here to help. Our dedicated team of counselors and essay editors can assist you in gathering the materials and writing pieces needed to improve your chances of acceptance into these competitive programs. Additionally, our Startup Internship Program and Research Scholar Program offer excellent opportunities to gain experience in your scientific pursuits. These programs pair you with mentors and/or companies, allowing you to learn by doing and exploring your interests. Schedule a free consultation with our team today to learn more!

When preparing for science internships, remember to check each program's specific eligibility criteria, deadlines, and application requirements. Good luck, and may your journey into the science world be educational, exciting, and truly inspiring!