Elevate your experience with Empowerly’s world-class Research Scholar Program.
Contribute to global knowledge with your own research project, guided by a PhD mentor.
Research with Experts
About our Research Scholar Program
Our Research Scholar Program gives students in 9th-12th grade the opportunity to work 1-on-1 with a PhD candidate on an independently-developed research project.
We offer this program year round in 4 cohorts across spring, summer, fall, and winter. Projects can span anywhere from 12 weeks to 12 months. Mentors include PhD candidates from renowned universities like Columbia, MIT, Brown, and many others.
Program Advantages
Benefits of participating in the Research Scholar Program
Create a meaningful, lasting impact
Innovate in a field that inspires you—this might include helping develop a new vaccine, antibiotic, computational algorithm, or another brilliant idea.
Develop subject matter expertise in an area
Advance and contribute to a collective body of research and knowledge within a focused network of like-minded individuals.
Stand out during your admissions process
Hone skills in college-level research and writing that demonstrate to college admissions offices a deeper level of interest in the subject matter.
Top Mentors, Top Results
400+ mentors from top universities across the globe.
Fields of Focus
Research projects in numerous STEM and humanities fields.
Access expert guidance in key fields spanning science, technology, humanities, and more.
Ready to learn more?
Schedule a free, virtual consultation with one of our admissions experts to discuss participating in our Research Scholar Program.
Program Voices
What people are saying
I was accepted to Columbia, Duke, Carnegie Mellon, USC, and more. I also have a deeper insight about my career and the impact I want to make in the world.
– Samuel, Empowerly student
As a first generation immigrant, my parents and I did not know too much about the college application process beforehand. [Empowerly] helped us understand and work through the process…I am excited to start my first year at the University of Pittsburgh.
– Aman, Empowerly student
I got to explore more schools and broaden my perspective of these schools and programs…I got into my ultimate dream school: Barnard College of Columbia University, which only had a 6.5% acceptance rate this year.
– Amruta, Empowerly student
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Research Scholar Program?
Empowerly’s Research Scholar Program offers you a hands-on experience in conducting research alongside PhD candidates. By working on real-world projects in a field of interest, you will develop skills in research design, data analysis, and academic writing. These programs help enrich your level of expertise, making you more competitive for college admissions, as well as for future career opportunities.
Empowerly’s Research Scholar Program pairs students with a currently enrolled PhD candidate at one of the many renowned universities in our network, with projects typically lasting between 12 weeks and 12 months. Currently, we open our research program four times a year with cohorts in spring, summer, fall, and winter.
Why is participating in the Research Scholar Program important?
- Make an impact on the world. Knowing how to conduct thorough and accurate research can result in a variety of discoveries and advancements: developing a new vaccine or antibiotic, delving into a computational algorithm, or establishing an entirely new way of doing business.
- Gain expertise on a topic. Regardless of whether or not the research results in tangible innovation or development, the practice allows students to gain expertise on a topic they likely knew very little about before diving in. This experience helps cultivate interest and curiosity, comprehension skills, and confidence for exploring new ideas and concepts.
- Stand out for admissions. Participating in a comprehensive high school research internship can make students stand out in competitive college admissions processes, boosting their chances of acceptance into top universities.
Is Research Scholar Program participation required for college applications?
Participation is not a requirement—though it can significantly enhance your application. In addition to research programs, college admissions offices will consider volunteer work, internships, club leadership, and other creative projects. However, they are actively looking for well-rounded candidates with demonstrated pursuit of relevant and impactful extracurricular activities in their areas of interest. Research projects are an excellent way to highlight passion and proactivity for a field of study.
At Empowerly, we offer many opportunities for strengthening your extracurricular profile—our Startup Internship Program, Research Scholar Program, and AI Scholar Program. Schedule a free consultation with us to learn how these programs can bolster your applicant profile.
Is it too early or too late to participate in the Research Scholar Program?
Nope! Whether you’re freshman getting a head start or a high school senior just discovering your passions, it’s never too late (or too early) to apply for a research project. Our Research Scholar Program is offered in spring, summer, fall, and winter—giving students valuable opportunities to pursue innovative projects in a collaborative academic setting. Build knowledge and expertise while differentiating yourself from your peers.
Please note, RSP is not offered on a rolling basis and there are specific start dates to each RSP cohort. Check with your enrollment specialist to learn more.
Who mentors students in the Research Scholar Program?
Students are paired with PhD candidates or academic researchers from top universities. Mentors provide expert guidance through every stage of the research process – from topic selection to final presentation – ensuring a valuable and authentic academic experience.
Please note, RSP is not offered on a rolling basis and there are specific start dates to each RSP cohort. Check with your enrollment specialist to learn more.
What subjects or fields can I research in Empowerly’s program?
Students can explore diverse fields such as biology, computer science, psychology, economics, engineering, and more. Empowerly matches each student with a mentor aligned to their academic interests and future goals.
How can the Research Scholar Program strengthen my college applications?
Completing original research demonstrates initiative, critical thinking, and academic passion – qualities top colleges look for. Students can showcase their work in essays, interviews, and resumes, giving them a competitive edge in selective admissions.
Do I need prior research experience to join the program?
No prior research experience is required. Empowerly’s Research Scholar Program welcomes students of all levels and provides structured guidance on research methods, data analysis, and academic writing.
Can I publish or present my research after completing the program?
Yes. Many Empowerly students submit their work to student journals, conferences, or competitions. Mentors provide advice on publication opportunities and how to present findings professionally.
How do I apply for Empowerly’s Research Scholar Program?
You can apply by scheduling a free consultation with Empowerly’s admissions team. They’ll review your interests, match you with the right research mentor, and help you choose the best upcoming cohort to join.
