biology research project high school

Biology Research Projects for High School Students

Indigo Research Team

Are you looking for biology-related topics for your high school research project? If yes, then you have come to the right place. 

We do understand that finding the right topic for research that connects with you can be challenging. This is particularly true for the field of biology since it is very diverse. A good biology project needs to have enough scientific research backing it so that it helps support or disprove your hypothesis. 

This article is all about easy and interesting research projects designed just for keen high school students. We'll explore topics in the domain of the human body, ecosystems, diseases and their treatments, and more. 

Biology Project Ideas For High Schoolers

Here's a carefully curated compilation of cool biology topics to inspire and kick-start your creativity. We have broken the list into categories so that it's easier for you to navigate projects that fall into your interest.

Human Body Project Ideas

The human body is said to be the most complicated biological machine, which opens room for good research topics .  Let's check out some exciting project ideas about the human body.

1. Exploring the Rate of Cognitive Decline at Different Elevations

At higher altitudes, there's a reduction in oxygen partial pressure, impacting blood oxygenation and potentially influencing brain function. If you've ever experienced altitude sickness, you've felt the effects of this phenomenon. The decrease in atmospheric pressure at elevated altitudes results in lower partial pressures of gases, including vital oxygen necessary for our bodily functions.

This project can investigate the impact of sudden increased elevation, such as climbing Denali, on brain health and cognition. Additionally, you can also explore whether continuous exposure to high elevations might contribute to an increased risk of dementia. This biology research project can also analyze published studies examining the correlation between altitude and cognitive brain functions. ‍

2. Making a Visual Guide for Blood Vessel Formation

Create an illustration using online images to showcase the process of blood vessel development. In this project, you can search existing research to understand the current knowledge about how blood vessels form and grow. Then, you can use this gathered information to design a graphic explaining how the network of blood vessels, known as vasculature, takes shape.

This is one of the most interesting human biology project ideas that aims to convey scientific concepts visually, making the information more accessible to a broader audience. ‍

3. Exploring Bacterial Communities in Different Homes

If you’re looking for immune system project ideas, this might be it for you. Bacterial microbiomes are groups of bacteria living on or around living things. These communities of tiny cells are essential for our health, helping with digestion and keeping our immune system in check. The microorganisms in our body outnumber our own cells by approximately 10:1. This project mainly focuses on figuring out how the bacteria on our skin differ between people from different households. To execute this biology project, you can create various bacterial media at home and select other microorganisms. 

Note: While conducting research, avoid abrasions, needle sticks, or cuts to avoid getting bacterial infections. Wearing safety goggles, a face mask, or a face shield can help keep you safe. It is also important after the experiments to wash your hands with soap and water and disinfect surfaces that may have been in contact with the bacteria. At the end of your experiment, fully sterilize everything before disposal.

4. Understanding the Control of Biological Clocks

Next up in the human biology project ideas is understanding how biological clocks work. Sleep is managed by two main processes: the circadian clock, which aligns sleep patterns with the day-night cycle, and sleep homeostasis, which tracks sleep debt as a way to recover from sleep loss. 

You've probably heard about the circadian rhythm, our body's internal clock. Circadian sleep regulation is crucial for animals to predict when they should be awake or sleepy each day. These processes can be controlled at different levels, such as genes, proteins, and neurons in the clock. 

This biology research topic can focus on exploring the regulation of circadian clocks at various genetic levels. This project will help you develop important scientific skills in two areas: the first one is learning how to read and summarize information from scientific articles efficiently,  and the second is finding effective ways to present the gathered information. ‍

5. Exploring the Science of Getting Older

Exploring the science of getting older is one of the most groundbreaking human biology research topics. Growing older is the main factor that increases the risk of various diseases like cancer, neurodegenerative conditions, and sensory impairments. Recently, researchers began to unravel the mysteries of ageing and discover ways to slow down or potentially reverse its effects.

What are the signs of ageing? How do scientists study the process of getting older? How do human lifespan and ageing compare to other animals? Can we actually put a halt to or undo the impacts of ageing? What progress has been made in this area? You can delve into these topics for biology projects or brainstorm other inquiries about the biology of ageing.

Animals, Plants, and Nature Project Ideas

Next up, we’ll discuss the biology research projects related to animals, plants, and nature. These environments are very close to human and they are definitely very interesting to explore.

1. Examining the Impact of Genetically Modified Mosquitoes on Disease Rates

In some areas, like the island of Príncipe, many genetically modified mosquitoes are set free every week. These mosquitoes are modified so they can't easily spread diseases like dengue fever, Zika, and malaria. They're released into nature to mix with regular mosquitoes that carry diseases. But only some agree on whether this is a good idea, as there could be unexpected environmental effects. 

You can conduct research on what could be the good and not-so-good things about this. This biology project is about researching articles and videos to understand how and why scientists use these mosquitoes to reduce diseases and to understand exactly how this works. You may even want to explore exactly how scientists create these genetically modified mosquitoes. 

‍ 2. Effectiveness of Ocean-Protected Zones

Ocean-protected zones, known as Marine Protected Areas (MPAs), are specific parts of the sea or coastal waters set aside to conserve marine resources sustainably. Governments, NGOs, or other groups create these areas, and they can vary from entirely off-limits "no-take" zones to zones with controlled fishing or other activities. While MPAs can help manage resources wisely and safeguard biodiversity, there are various reasons why they might need to be revised.

For your marine biology project ideas, investigate the factors that could make MPAs less effective. Then, devise an alternative plan for creating, modeling, and implementing an efficient Marine Protected Area.

For an insightful example of student-led research in this area, explore this project on Applications of Australian Native Aquatic Plants in Purifying Wastewater Sources at Indigo Research . ‍

3. Learning from Nature: Can Animals Provide Solutions?

Exploring the wisdom of the natural world, you can delve into the intriguing question: Can animals offer us innovative solutions to complex problems? How can studying how lizards and newts regrow their limbs help us make wound treatments better or even help someone who is paralyzed from injury to their spinal cord? Why is tilapia skin useful for burns? Explore these new topics in biology on how animals contribute to shaping modern medicine and its future possibilities. 

Also, consider if there are any ethical worries tied to these discoveries and developments. If there are, what are they, and should we be concerned?  ‍

4. Understanding the Impact of Climate Change on the Habitats of Rare Species

Climate change, marked by factors like global warming and prolonged drought, threatens some of the rarest plants and animals on our planet. It is crucial to figure out how the future living spaces for these rare species might change so we can focus our efforts on preserving specific areas. 

In this project, you can choose a rare species you're interested in and gather online data about where it currently exists. This is a great idea for a biology research project if you’re interested in the environment, ecology or rare plant and animal species, in which you can find out how to use species distribution modeling to map where it lives now and where it might thrive. 

5. Complex Relationships in Coral Reefs

Coral reefs worldwide are struggling, and one big reason is "coral bleaching," making the reefs look white, as you might have seen in the news. Coral bleaching happens when the teamwork between the coral animals and the tiny, helpful algae inside them breaks down. These coral and algae buddies can handle different temperatures, but we don't really know why. 

This biological project can be about reading what scientists have researched about this teamwork and determining what factors can tell us when corals might turn white and how well they can handle temperature changes.

Genetic Project Ideas

If you want to base your project on genetics, we have a few ideas you can look at. 

1. Understanding the Relationship between Genetics and Height 

Epigenetics studies how heritable cellular phenotype or gene expression changes occur without altering the DNA sequence. Such changes are affected by lifestyle and diet. In these biochemical projects, you can analyze the open dataset on identical (or monozygotic) twins to find what biological features are shared between monozygotic twins and which are not. The latter might be affected by non-genetic factors that control these features

You will learn how to use the R tool to look at and analyze data, and use statistical tools to identify significant differences between groups, and, in the end, showcase your research with graphics to communicate it effectively to the audience. 

2. Exploring personalized medication

Just like fingerprints, each of us has a unique genetic code that determines things in our body, like our hair color, height, and eye color. Even diseases like cancer have their own unique codes inside the malignant cells that define important features of the  a tumor. 

For decades, everyone with a specific cancer has been treated the same way with surgery, chemo- or radiotherapy, even if their malignant cells are different. That's where one of the most interesting biology topics for research, personalized medication, comes in. 

It's a new and exciting way to treat diseases. Personalized medicine aims to use the disease's genetic code to customize the treatment to that particular individual. This domain of biology has a lot of published research and a lot of room for new research as well. 

One thing you can do for your biology project subject is to pick one disease whose treatment can really benefit from personalized medication and write a research paper on it based on the work of reputable researchers. 

3. The genetics of neurodevelopmental disorders

Many neurodevelopmental or psychiatric disorders like autism spectrum disorder or schizophrenia have a strong genetic basis. What genes are involved? What proteins do they produce and what are their functions? How do these genetic changes affect brain development and function? Can this knowledge help scientists develop new drugs to treat conditions like schizophrenia that is still being treated with the same drugs as 50 years ago?

This project will allow you to read exciting research that has been published over the last few years, and learn about genetics and neuroscience, two of the most exciting areas of biology and medicine. You will develop skills in scientific research and ways to present complex ideas to an audience. 

Projects based on exciting biological topics allow students to explore the science of living things and get hands-on experience with everything they learned in high school. From investigating altitude's impact on cognition in human beings to exploring genetically engineered mosquitoes, these projects help in understanding biology. 

Students develop critical thinking and research skills in each biology project, apply classroom knowledge, and communicate findings effectively. These projects provide students the freedom to explore individual interests and pave the way for future scientific endeavors. 

If you're interested in conducting biology research, consider finding a mentor who can guide you through your innovative biology project ideas. At Indigo Research, you can start your research at any time of the year, building on the knowledge and skills you've acquired from your internships or academic coursework.

200 Biology Research Topics For High School

Research papers are an integral part of high school. A detailed research paper is required in most of the subjects, and one just cannot back out, as this is a part of their curriculum. However, what is even more laborious than writing the whole research paper? Finding a good topic!

The same goes for biology. Although there are plenty of topics out there that a student can write about, choosing a relevant topic is often a taxing job since they may need to brainstorm various factors. However, it can be disentangled with clarity and appropriate counsel. 

While this subject deals with various areas like cells, animals, plants, and human anatomy; in this post, we would appraise you with 200 biology research topics handpicked for aspiring high schoolers, to make their task easier.

Biology Research Topics- Finding the Right one 

Choosing the right topic can be a long expedition. However, it can be effortless when students are clear about their requirements personally and academically. To discern the same, it can be a fair idea to look into some crucial attributes that can lead a high schooler towards a desired biology research topic.

• Know your niche

Learners often have one or more notions that they feel enticing to learn and travel with. For instance, a student may like to learn and work in cell biology, while another may love studying more about genetics. Knowing the niche in which they can excel can make their topic selection facile.

• Stick to one Narrow topic

After comprehending the choice of the niche, the scholar may need to narrow down to one topic which is intriguing and manageable at the same time. Evidently, “Study of Mitochondria and its benefits ” is a better choice than “Cell biology”. Choosing a righteous narrow topic may mitigate the constraints like taxing research and report length later. 

• Consult mentors and Peers

Instructors are always available to answer the queries of pupils. Students can take their inputs to add strength to their research topics. Mentors not only assist to choose the right topic but also can advise a few changes in the choice to make it finer. Say, a student has chosen “Study of DNA”, the mentor can suggest modifying it to ”Role of DNA in Curing Diseases”. Brainstorming sessions with peers may also ameliorate the topic decision 

• Ensure the School Regulations 

High school research is often guided by some crucial regulations to stipulate students work efficiently. Students may need to choose a topic somehow related to the academic syllabus. Further, they may be stimulated to address burning issues to create awareness. Adhering to the guidelines can mitigate the need for rectifications later. 

200 Biology Research Topics- To Start With Right Away

High School biology has several sections to choose from, which may make it taxing for students to resolute on one choice. Here is a sizable list of 201 biology research topics for high schoolers which they can start instantly: 

Cell Biology

• Animal cell and its structure
• Functions of Cells
• Mitochondria- the PowerHouse of cell
• Functions of an RBC- How does it transfer Oxygen?
• Functions of a WBC- How does it retain immunity?
• Components of Plant Cell
• Plant Cell Vs. Animal Cell
• Cell Division
• Mitosis Vs. Meiosis
• Bacteria- How is it different from cells?
• Cell structure and antibiotic Resistance
•  What are cancer cells? Are they Dangerous?
• Mushrooms and Molds- A brief Study of Fungi
• Curing Cancer Cells
•  Stem Cells- A brief Study
• Embryonic vs Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells
• Adults vs Induced Pluripotent stem Cells 
• The Build of Human DNA
• Components of DNA
• Chromosomes- A brief Study
• Double Helix Structure of DNA
• Singled celled Organisms and their DNA
• Bacteria and its DNA
• X and Y chromosomes
• Genetic INformation in DNA
• DNA modification- Its application in medicine
• Cancer and DNA modification
• DNA of dinosaurs
• Do plants have DNA?

Molecular Biology

•  Gene- A Brief History
• Components of Gene
• Drugs for Humans
• Vaccine vs Drugs
• A brief study of Gregor Mendel
• Dominant vs recessive genes
• Widow’s peak illustration of Genes
• What is mutation?
• Hormones and their functions
• Artificial hormones for animals
• PCR tests for analyzing DNA
• Structure of a Molecule
• Structure of prion
• DNA transcription-Its applications
• Central Dogma
• Heredity and traits 

NeuroBiology

• Human Nervous System- A brief description
• Structure and components of neurons.
• Neurons vs Animal cell
• A brief study of electric pulses in the human brain
• Altering reaction speed in the brain
• Alzheimer’s disease- its study in genetics
• Neurobiological Degeneration- does it have a cure?
• Brain injuries and cures
• Spinal Cord Injuries and cures
• Narcolepsy 
• A brief study of mental health with neurobiology
• Various emotions and their neural pulses
• A brief study of the human neurological system

Genetics 

• A brief study of ancient cloning techniques
• Reasons behind Abortion. Is it ethical
• Procedure of abortion
• What is human cloning? 
• Side effects of Human Cloning
• Goals of Human Cloning
• Transplantation vs Human Cloning
•  Perfect child theory. Is it ethical?
• Gene cloning- Removal of undesirable traits.
• Genes and ethics
•  Gene therapy
• Gene therapy vs Cloning
• Curing Cancer with Gene therapy
• Cons of Cloning

Environment and Ecology

• A Brief Study of Charles Darwin 
• The Evolution Theory
• Natural Selection- the complete study
• Mutation- A brief study with examples
• Adaptations in animals- Study with 5 examples
• Divergent evolution
• Convergent evolution
• Parallel Evolution
• Components of a sustainable environment
•  Environmental Friendly Practices
• Role of Plastics in pollution
• Alternatives for Plastic
• Deforestation
• Solutions for Deforestations
• Ecological concerns
• History of the Ozone layer
• Change in ecology- A study of extinct animals
• Effects of Fast Food factories
• Reversing ecological changes
• Climate changes and their effects
• Global Warming
• GreenHouse effect

Plants And Animals

• A study of Endangered animals
• Melatonin therapy
• Benefits of growing plants in the home
• A brief study of popular plant diseases
• Effects of pesticides and herbicides
• Immunity in plants
• The Banana Pandemic
• Weedy and Invasive Plants
• Genetic analysis of plants
• Medicinal plants- A brief study
• Evolution in plants
• Plants in Food production
• Components of Photosynthesis
• A brief study of Phytohormones
• Antibiotics and phytocides
• A detailed study of Stomata structure
• Grafting techniques
• Roots and stem modification
• Real-life examples of taxonomy
• Study of sweet potato Virus
• Classifications of animals
• Evolution of marine life
• Prehistoric aquatic life- study of enormous creatures
• Evolution of land-based life
• Zoos and petting- are they ethical?
• Drug testing on animals
• A brief study of cows and their benefits on Humans
• Food chain and classification
• Vegans vs carnivores
• Resistance in animals
• Behavioral changes  in animals due to evolution
• A brief study of intelligence in animals
• Migration of birds- a brief study.
• Study of extinct species and bringing back them
• Types of dinosaurs
• Male pregnancy in animals 

Marine Biology

• Oil spilling in the ocean- strategies to mitigate
• Ocean Acidification and its effects
• Evolution in aquatic animals
• Camouflage mechanism
• Petting marine species
• Study on Ultrasonic communication in whales
• Role of marine shows and debate on its ethics
• Are mermaids real?
• A study of immortal marine species
• Plankton and its medicinal uses
• Underwater ecologies
• Freshwater And Seawater
• A brief study of coral reefs
• Medicinal values of coral reef plants
• Tectonic plates and underwater earthquakes

Cardiovascular 

• Heart Rhythm and Arrhythmias
• Preventive Cardiology
• Hypertension
• InterventionalCardiology
• Heart Failure (Myocardial Biology)
• Heart Disease in various age groups
• Signs, symptoms and first aid for Heart Disease.
• A study of ECG and other apparatus

Hormone Biology

• Pregnancy and hormonal changes
• Bipolar Disorder
• Endocrine and related diseases
• MEntal health in different genders. 
• Stress and immunity

Reproductive System

• Cervical Cancer and its cure
• A brief study of puberty
• Contraception
• Infertility
• Test tube babies
• The concept of surrogacy
• Tubectomy and vasectomy
• Male Reproductive complications and their cures
• Female reproductive complications and their cure

Digestive System

• Gastrointestinal tract- a brief study
• Components of Digestive systems
• A brief study of stomach and liver
• Functions of intestines

Skeletal System

• The function of the skeletal system
• Type of bones
• Functions of Sesamoid bones
• Foods for healthy bones 
• A brief study of Spinal Cord

Excretory System

• The detailed study on Kidney and its Function
• Gross Anatomy of the Urinary System
• Reasons for Renal Calculi (Kidney Stones) and cures

Miscellaneous 

• Coordination between muscular system and skeletal system 
• Benefits of ecotourism
• Extinction of bees- A brief study
• The green revolution
• US Grain economy
• Agricultural practices for more yield
• World trade of food
• A brief study of Covid 19
• Renewable energies and their effect on plants 
• Bacteria and depression
• Genes and neuron functions
• Robotic surgeries- the study of the future. 
• Benefits of organic farming
• Study of various components of flower and a fruit
• Diet and obesity
• Various components of Brain
• Diabetes and its cure
• CRISPR and Genetic Engineering
• A brief on Cell tissue engineering

Having a large number of alternatives often creates incertitude. The topics we put forward are all worth considering. Determining your area of interest can make your choice facile. For instance, if you feel genetics enticing, prefer choosing relevant topics. You may consider consulting researchers, faculty and pertinent professionals to add muscle to your research. Review our picks to see if any of those can fit your choice in making a credible research paper. 

Sananda Bhattacharya, Chief Editor of TheHighSchooler, is dedicated to enhancing operations and growth. With degrees in Literature and Asian Studies from Presidency University, Kolkata, she leverages her educational and innovative background to shape TheHighSchooler into a pivotal resource hub. Providing valuable insights, practical activities, and guidance on school life, graduation, scholarships, and more, Sananda’s leadership enriches the journey of high school students.

Explore a plethora of invaluable resources and insights tailored for high schoolers at TheHighSchooler, under the guidance of Sananda Bhattacharya’s expertise. You can follow her on Linkedin

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15 Biology Research Opportunities for High School Students

By Eric Eng

Biology is your go-to science, a branch of science that’s filled with endless opportunities for discovery and innovation. If you’re a high school student with a love for biology, plenty of research opportunities await to give you a taste of the professional scientific research world. These experiences offer so much more than your typical classroom lessons.

This article presents 15 biology research opportunities for high school students designed for scholars eager to explore this scientific field. These opportunities allow students to apply their learning in practical settings and prepare them for future academic and career pursuits in science.

From environmental studies and biomedical research to genetics and beyond, each program offers a unique chance to delve into specific areas of interest, guided by experts and utilizing cutting-edge technologies.

1. HiSTEP at NIH

• Location : Bethesda, Maryland
• Subfield : Biomedical and healthcare
• Eligibility : High school juniors from the DMV area with a minimum 3.0 GPA
• Important Dates : Application deadline: January 12.

The High School Scientific Training and Enrichment Program (HiSTEP) at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) is a distinguished example of biology research opportunities for high school students, especially those residing in the District of Columbia , Virginia, and Maryland metro area.

Tailored for high school juniors who demonstrate a keen interest in biomedical and healthcare careers, HiSTEP fosters the development of basic science skills and immerses participants in a rich curriculum covering a broad array of STEM-M topics.

Through workshops, lectures, and hands-on experiences on the NIH campus in Bethesda, Maryland, the program aims to broaden students’ perspectives on science and healthcare professions while promoting diversity in these fields.

Eligibility criteria ensure the program is accessible to students who meet specific academic and socioeconomic thresholds, ensuring that those who could most benefit from such an experience have the opportunity to do so.

2. George Washington Carver Internship Program

• Location : Iowa State University, Iowa
• Subfield : Food systems and agricultural processes
• Eligibility : U.S. citizens and legal residents with a minimum 3.0 GPA
• Important Dates : Application deadline: February 1.

The George Washington Carver Internship Program represents a remarkable opportunity among biology research opportunities for high school students, particularly those interested in agriculture, food systems, and environmental science.

Hosted by Iowa State University, this program invites students to engage directly in the scientific research process by spending eight weeks on campus conducting research alongside experienced mentors.

Participants delve into projects that could range from studying plant genetics to exploring sustainable agricultural practices, providing them with a comprehensive overview of the challenges and innovations in the field of agricultural sciences.

The internship is designed to equip students with hands-on research experience and inspire them to consider future careers in these critical areas of study. With provisions for on-campus housing, a meal plan, round-trip airfare, and a stipend, the program breaks down barriers to participation, making it accessible to U.S. citizens and legal residents who meet the academic criteria.

3. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory Young Women in Science (YWIS)

• Location : Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
• Subfield : STEM
• Eligibility : Female high school students interested in STEM
• Important Dates : Application deadline varies.

The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory Young Women in Science (YWIS) program is a pioneering initiative designed to provide biology research opportunities for high school students, focusing specifically on empowering female students through science.

This program, set within the prestigious environment of the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory, is tailored to foster an inclusive atmosphere where young women can explore their interests in various STEM fields, including biology, environmental science, and more.

Over ten weeks during the summer, participants can work closely with scientist mentors on real research projects, gaining invaluable hands-on experience beyond the conventional classroom setting. Alongside the research component, the YWIS program enriches its participants’ experience with various developmental activities such as laboratory demonstrations, field trips, and workshops designed to build skills, knowledge, and confidence.

This initiative aims to inspire the next generation of female scientists by exposing them to the vast possibilities within scientific inquiry. It also strives to break down gender barriers in STEM by actively encouraging young women to pursue their scientific interests.

4. Broad Summer Scholars Program

• Location : Cambridge, Massachusetts
• Subfield : Cancer biology, chemical biology, computational biology, infectious disease
• Eligibility : Rising Massachusetts high school seniors with Bs in science and math
• Important Dates : Application deadline: January 10.

The Broad Summer Scholars Program is a standout initiative among biology research opportunities for high school students, hosted by the Broad Institute in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

This program provides an immersive six-week experience that invites rising high school seniors to dive into the world of scientific research across various domains such as cancer biology, chemical biology, computational biology, and infectious disease.

Aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of biology and encouraging the pursuit of science careers, the program connects students with cutting-edge research projects, enabling them to work alongside renowned scientists and researchers.

Participants are given the unique opportunity to conduct significant research and explore potential science careers, attend informative scientific talks, and expand their network of peers with similar interests.

5. Brown Environmental Leadership Labs (BELL)

• Location : Anchorage, AK; Mammoth, CA; Providence, RI
• Subfield : Environmental science
• Eligibility : High school students
• Important Dates : Application deadline: May 10, 2024.

The Brown Environmental Leadership Labs (BELL) is a prominent fixture among biology research opportunities for high school students seeking to explore environmental science in a profoundly immersive setting.

This program, hosted by Brown University , takes students through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Anchorage, AK, Mammoth, CA, or Providence, RI. The landscapes offer a backdrop for study and a hands-on laboratory for understanding the intricacies of environmental challenges.

Participants explore issues such as climate change, sustainability practices, and the socio-political dynamics of environmental stewardship while being guided to develop their environmental action plans.

This initiative is designed to mold future environmental leaders by empowering them with the knowledge, skills, and perspective needed to advocate for and implement real-world solutions in their communities.

6. Summer Child Health Research Internship

• Location : Boulder, Colorado
• Subfield : Child health
• Eligibility : Rising high school seniors, college students, and first-year medical students
• Important Dates : Application deadline: Early February.

The Summer Child Health Research Internship offers an unparalleled opportunity among biology research opportunities for high school students with a keen interest in pediatric health and medical research.

This program, hosted by the University of Colorado Boulder’s Department of Pediatrics, immerses participants in biomedical research and pays a stipend, making it both an educational and financially beneficial experience.

Throughout the program, students are engaged in hands-on research projects under the mentorship of seasoned professionals, providing a real-world glimpse into the challenges and advancements in child health.

Additionally, the program encourages participants to develop their scientific communication skills by preparing a written summary of their research findings. Remarkably, students are allowed to present their work at local, regional, and national meetings, with the program offering support for travel and registration fees if their paper is accepted.

7. Center for Talented Youth (CTY) Honors Biology

• Location : Online
• Subfield : Biology
• Eligibility : Academically advanced students (grade 7+)
• Important Dates : Ongoing applications.

The Center for Talented Youth (CTY) Honors Biology course at Johns Hopkins University stands out among biology research opportunities for high school students. It offers a deep dive into complex biological concepts through an accessible online platform.

This program is tailored for academically advanced students starting in grade 7 eager to challenge themselves beyond the traditional classroom setting. CTY Honors Biology allows students to explore the intricate world of biology. It does so with the flexibility of online learning, making it a viable option for students regardless of their geographic location.

The course’s structure emphasizes academic rigor, promoting a thorough understanding of biological principles and their application in various scientific contexts. By focusing on engaging students with challenging content, the program aims to foster a deeper appreciation and understanding of biology among its participants.

This unique opportunity provides a comprehensive introduction to the field, encouraging students to pursue further studies and careers in biology and related disciplines. By participating in this program, students can expect to enhance their scientific knowledge and analytical skills and possibly even spark a lifelong passion for biological sciences.

8. Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Science Program (JHIBS)

• Location : Baltimore, MD
• Subfield : Neurological sciences
• Eligibility : Baltimore-area high school students
• Important Dates : 8-week summer program.

The Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Science Program (JHIBS) is an engaging and impactful initiative among the biology research opportunities for high school students, particularly those in the Baltimore area interested in neurological sciences.

This 8-week summer program is designed to immerse participants in the cutting-edge field of brain science, providing them with firsthand experience in neuroscience research. JHIBS serves as a unique platform for students to gain exposure to the complexities of the brain, understand the latest scientific research methods, and discover potential career paths in this rapidly evolving discipline.

By participating in this program, students receive invaluable mentorship from leading experts in the field and contribute to meaningful research that could have long-term implications for understanding brain function and treating neurological diseases.

This initiative highlights Johns Hopkins University’s commitment to advancing neuroscience research and education while fostering the next generation of scientists and medical professionals with a solid foundation in brain science.​​

9. GeneLab for High Schools (GL4HS)

• Location : NASA, varies
• Subfield : Space life sciences
• Important Dates : N/A.

GeneLab for High Schools (GL4HS) is an innovative program at the forefront of biology research opportunities for high school students, particularly those fascinated by the convergence of biology and space exploration.

This unique initiative, developed by NASA, seeks to involve students in analyzing biological data derived from spaceflight experiments. Participating in GL4HS gives students a rare chance to work with data that could provide insights into how microgravity and other space conditions affect life beyond Earth’s atmosphere.

This program not only offers an introduction to astrobiology and space life sciences but also equips students with valuable skills in data analysis and scientific research methods.

The focus on real-world data from space missions underscores the program’s commitment to advancing our understanding of life in space and preparing students for futures in STEM fields where they might one day contribute to groundbreaking discoveries.

10. Texas Tech University’s Research Program

• Location : Lubbock, Texas
• Subfield : Health sciences
• Important Dates : Application deadline: February 15, 2024.

The Texas Tech University’s Research Program emerges as a significant opportunity for high school students in the landscape of biology research opportunities, offering a platform for participants to delve into health sciences research.

This 7-week intensive program, based in Lubbock, TX, is designed to immerse students in a research-based environment where they can work alongside Texas Tech’s General Health Sciences Center professors.

The program not only introduces students to the fundamentals of scientific research but also exposes them to weekly seminars and discussion sections, enriching their understanding of current issues and methodologies in health sciences. Additionally, field trips are organized to provide a broader perspective on the real-world applications of their research.

This initiative is structured to build students’ knowledge and skills in health sciences and inspire them to consider future careers in this vital field. Texas Tech University’s Research Program is pivotal in cultivating the next generation of scientists and healthcare professionals​​by providing high school students with university resources and mentorship.

11. University of Chicago’s Research in the Biological Sciences

• Location : University of Chicago
• Subfield : Molecular biology, microbiology, cellular biology

The University of Chicago’s Research in the Biological Sciences (RIBS) is a standout program in biology research opportunities for high school students. This intensive four-week summer course is designed to immerse students in various cutting-edge molecular, microbiological, and cell biological techniques currently used in research laboratories.

Set against the backdrop of one of the nation’s leading research universities, RIBS participants spend most of their days in the lab, gaining hands-on experience beyond the standard high school curriculum.

Starting with basic lab techniques, the course gradually moves towards more specialized molecular methods in cell biology, genetics, developmental biology, and cancer biology. The highlight for many students is the opportunity to conduct an independent project, allowing them to apply their newfound skills to fundamental research questions.

This program not only provides participants with a glimpse into the life of a research scientist but also equips them with the knowledge and experience to pursue further studies and careers in the biological sciences.

12. Waksman Student Scholars Program

• Location : Rutgers University
• Subfield : Molecular biology, bioinformatics
• Eligibility : High school students and their teachers

The Waksman Student Scholars Program (WSSP) offers a unique opportunity among biology research opportunities for high school students, focusing on molecular biology and bioinformatics.

This distinctive program, hosted by Rutgers University, enables high school students and their teachers to engage in genuine research projects over the academic year, starting with a summer institute.

The program’s hands-on approach allows students to work on real scientific problems. By analyzing DNA sequences that could be published in scientific databases, students contribute to understanding molecular biology.

The WSSP is not just about conducting experiments; it also encompasses data analysis and interpretation, providing participants with a comprehensive experience in scientific research. By working alongside research scientists and utilizing cutting-edge technology and methodologies, students gain a deep understanding of how science operates outside of the traditional classroom setting.

13. Research Science Institute (RSI)

• Location : Center for Excellence in Education
• Subfield : Scientific research and collaboration
• Eligibility : Exceptional high school students

The Research Science Institute (RSI), hosted by the Center for Excellence in Education, represents one of the premier biology research opportunities for high school students globally. This highly selective summer program gathers some of the most promising students worldwide to engage in rigorous scientific research.

Participants have the unique opportunity to conduct original, cutting-edge research in biology, chemistry, physics, and engineering. The program combines on-campus coursework in scientific theory with hands-on research in a state-of-the-art laboratory under the mentorship of leading scientists and researchers.

This immersive, six-week experience at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology ( MIT ) is designed to challenge and expand students’ understanding of their chosen field of study. It fosters a community of young scientists dedicated to pursuing careers in science and technology.

Beyond the laboratory, RSI provides a comprehensive experience with guest lectures and seminars, offering students insights into the latest scientific discoveries and research methodologies. This program accelerates participants’ academic careers and builds a strong foundation for future scientific community contributions.

14. Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program (ASSIP) – George Mason University

• Location : Options for remote, in-person, or hybrid formats
• Subfield : Various STEM fields, including astronomy, biochemistry, drug discovery, environmental science
• Eligibility : Minimum age of 15 or 16 by June 18th, 2024, depending on the lab type
• Important Dates : June 18 – August 9, 2024.

The Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program (ASSIP) at George Mason University epitomizes a premier example of biology research opportunities for high school students, offering an immersive dive into the world of scientific research.

Over 8 weeks, participants are granted the unique opportunity to work alongside George Mason University’s distinguished faculty and researchers, utilizing state-of-the-art equipment and technologies to explore diverse fields within biology, including neuroscience, biochemistry, environmental science, and more.

This program is tailored to foster scientific skills and knowledge and enhance participants’ scientific writing and communication abilities, crucial competencies for budding scientists. Furthermore, ASSIP strongly emphasizes career exploration within STEM fields, facilitating discussions and meetings with role models to help students envision potential career paths.

The program’s flexibility to offer remote, in-person, or hybrid formats ensures that a broad range of students can participate, making cutting-edge scientific research accessible to those at the critical stage of shaping their future academic and professional pursuits.

15. World Science Scholars

• Subfield : Science
• Eligibility : High school students passionate about science

The World Science Scholars program is a transformative initiative among biology research opportunities for high school students focusing on expanding the horizons of exceptionally talented young individuals in science and mathematics.

This program, designed for students with remarkable abilities in these areas, aims to further challenge and develop their talents through advanced online courses and collaborative projects. Participants have the rare opportunity to engage with leading scientists and educators, gaining insights into complex scientific topics that extend well beyond the standard high school curriculum.

The program deepens their understanding of scientific principles and encourages them to apply these concepts innovatively, potentially contributing to real-world solutions. Moreover, the World Science Scholars program fosters a global community of like-minded peers, providing a supportive network for these young scholars to exchange ideas and inspire one another.

Through this initiative, students are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and connections that can propel them to the forefront of scientific research and discovery, setting the foundation for future endeavors in biology and other scientific fields.

What Skills Can Students Gain from Participating in Biology Research?

Participating in biology research opportunities for high school students equips young scholars with a multifaceted skill set beyond traditional classroom learning. Firstly, students develop a strong foundation in scientific inquiry and analytical thinking , learning how to formulate hypotheses, design experiments, and interpret data. These opportunities often require students to engage in critical thinking and problem-solving, invaluable skills in any academic or professional setting.

Furthermore, participation in research projects enhances students’ technical competencies, including proficiency in laboratory techniques, use of scientific equipment, and familiarity with statistical software, essential for pursuing advanced studies and careers in the sciences.

What Are Unique Features of Some High School Biology Research Opportunities?

The landscape of biology research opportunities for high school students is diverse, offering a range of unique features that cater to different interests, skills, and career aspirations.

One distinctive aspect is the breadth of research areas available, from environmental science and sustainability efforts at programs like the Brown Environmental Leadership Labs (BELL) to the cutting-edge biomedical and genomics research conducted through initiatives like the Broad Summer Scholars Program and the GeneLab for High Schools (GL4HS) project. These programs often provide access to state-of-the-art laboratories and equipment, allowing students to conduct experiments and analyses on par with professional research settings.

Another unique feature is the emphasis on real-world impact and interdisciplinary collaboration. For instance, projects may tackle pressing global challenges, such as climate change or infectious diseases, encouraging students to apply their biological knowledge to develop viable solutions.

Additionally, many programs foster collaboration across scientific disciplines, enabling students to see the interconnectedness of biology with fields like chemistry, physics, and computational science, thus broadening their perspectives and enhancing their problem-solving skills.

The mentorship component is also a hallmark of these research opportunities. Students receive guidance from experienced scientists and researchers. This mentorship extends beyond laboratory techniques, encompassing professional development, scientific ethics, and career planning.

Furthermore, some programs emphasize community engagement and leadership development, preparing students to communicate scientific knowledge effectively to the public and to lead future scientific endeavors.

Finally, the opportunity for students to contribute to original research that can be published or presented at scientific conferences is a significant feature that sets these programs apart. This not only adds to the academic credentials of young scholars but also instills a sense of accomplishment and contribution to the scientific community.

How Do High School Biology Research Programs Prepare Students for College?

High school biology research programs offer a robust preparation for college by immersing students in real-world scientific research, thereby equipping them with a comprehensive set of skills and experiences.

Participating in biology research opportunities for high school students allows individuals to gain hands-on experience in the lab, familiarizing them with experimental procedures, data analysis, and applying scientific methods to solve complex problems—skills directly transferable to college-level biology courses.

Additionally, these programs often involve critical thinking and interdisciplinary learning, encouraging students to integrate knowledge from various scientific fields, which enhances their ability to tackle the multifaceted challenges they will encounter in higher education.

The collaborative nature of research also teaches students teamwork and leadership as they learn to work effectively with peers and mentors. This fosters a sense of community and mutual respect that is vital for academic and professional growth.

Exploring biology research opportunities for high school students opens doors to a world of scientific inquiry and discovery, laying a solid foundation for future endeavors in the vast field of biology.

These programs offer more than just a deep dive into various biological subfields; they provide a platform for personal and professional growth, skill development, and invaluable networking opportunities with peers and mentors alike.

As students participate in these research opportunities, they enrich their understanding of biology and contribute to meaningful scientific advancements. Whether your interest lies in the intricate workings of the human genome, the complexities of ecosystems, or the frontiers of bioengineering, these opportunities are stepping stones to a future where you can make a significant impact.

Armed with experience, knowledge, and a network of like-minded individuals, students who take advantage of these opportunities are well on their way to becoming the next generation of scientists, ready to tackle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in pursuing scientific discovery and innovation.

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Top 30 Biology Experiments for High-School

The field of biology offers a wide range of fascinating experiments that can deepen our understanding of the living world around us. From studying the behavior of cells to investigating the intricacies of ecosystems, biologists use a variety of methods to uncover the secrets of life.

We’ve compiled a captivating list of 30 biology experiments that are both educational and fun and also suitable for a wide range of ages.

These hands-on educational activities will not only deepen your appreciation for the intricacies of life but also fuel your curiosity and passion for scientific exploration.

So, roll up your sleeves, gather your lab equipment, and prepare to embark on an exciting adventure through the fascinating world of biology-based science experiments!

1. Grow a Butterfly

Students can gain knowledge about the various phases of development, from the egg to the larva to the pupa to the adult butterfly, by studying and taking care of a butterfly during its whole life cycle. This offers students a special chance to learn about the insect life cycle and the metamorphosis process.

Learn more: Elemental Science

2. Dissecting a Flower

Dissecting a flower can aid students in honing their analytical and observational skills. This may also aid in their comprehension of how a flower’s various components interact to facilitate reproduction, which is the flower’s main objective.

Learn More: How to Dissect a Flower

3. Extracting a DNA

The extraction of DNA is an excellent experiment for high school students to gain a better understanding of the principles of molecular biology and genetics. This experiment  helps students to understand the importance of DNA in research and its applications in various fields, such as medicine, biotechnology, and forensics.

Learn more: Extracting DNA

4. Looking at Fingerprints

Exploring fingerprints can be a fun and intriguing experiment. This experiment encourages students to develop their problem-solving skills and attention to detail, as they must carefully analyze and compare the various fingerprint patterns.

Fingerprint analysis is a fascinating and engaging experiment that can spark an interest in forensic science and provide students with a hands-on learning experience.

Learn more: Directions to Examine a Fingerprint

5. Cultivate Bacteria on Home Made Agar

This experiment provides a hands-on learning experience for students to understand the principles of microbiology and the techniques used in bacterial culture.

This experiment can also help students to understand the importance of bacteria in our daily lives, their role in human health, and their applications in various fields, such as biotechnology and environmental science.  

Learn more: Grow bacteria on Homemade Agar Plates

6. Make a Bioluminescent Lamp

This experiment provides an excellent opportunity for high school students to learn about bioluminescence and the principles of genetic engineering.

Creating a bioluminescent lamp is a fun and engaging way to explore the intersection of biology, chemistry, and physics, making it a perfect experiment for students interested in science and technology.

Learn more: Make Glowing Water

7. Make Plants Move with Light

This experiment can help students understand the role of light in plant growth and photosynthesis and the importance of light as an environmental factor for plant survival. 

Learn more: Experiments with Phototropism

8. Test the Five-Second Rule

The “5-second rule” experiment is a simple and fun way to investigate the validity of the popular belief that it is safe to eat food that has been dropped on the ground for less than 5 seconds.

The experiment is an engaging and informative way to explore the science behind a common belief and promote critical thinking and scientific inquiry among students.

Learn more: Five Second Rule

9. Examine How Antibiotics Affect Bacteria

This experiment is an excellent opportunity for high school students to develop their laboratory skills, such as aseptic technique and bacterial culture, and understand the principles of antibiotic resistance and its implications for human health.

Examining how antibiotics affect bacteria is a fascinating and educational experiment that promotes scientific inquiry and critical thinking among students.

Learn more: Learn About Bacteria

10. Look for Cell Mitosis in an Onion

This experiment is an excellent opportunity for high school students to develop their microscopy skills and understand the biological basis of growth and development in plants. This experiment is a fun and informative way to explore the world of cells and their role in the growth and development of living organisms.

Learn more: Onion Root Mitosis

11. Test the Effects of Disinfectants

Testing the effects of disinfectants is an important process in determining their efficacy in killing or reducing the number of microorganisms on a surface or object. Disinfectants can be hazardous if not used correctly, and testing their effects can help students understand how to use them safely.

Students can learn about proper handling techniques and how to interpret safety labels and warning signs.

Learn more: Antiseptic and Disinfectants

12. Microwave Seed Gardening

Microwave seed gardening is a quick and efficient method of germinating seeds, microwave seed gardening can be a useful method for starting seeds, but it should be used with care and in conjunction with other germination methods to ensure the best possible results. 

Learn more: Microwave plant

13. Water Bottle Bacteria Swab

This experiment can be a fun and informative way to learn about the importance of keeping water bottles clean and free from harmful bacteria. It can also be used to compare the cleanliness of different types of water bottles, such as metal, plastic, or glass.

Learn more: Swabbing Water Bottles

14. Frog Dissection

Frog dissection can be a valuable tool for teaching anatomy and physiology to high school students, as it provides a comprehensive examination of the internal organs and systems of the frog.

Dissection can be a valuable and engaging experiment for high school students interested in biology and life science.

Learn more: Frog Dissection

15. Witness the Carbon Cycle in Action

By witnessing the carbon cycle in action, learners can gain a better understanding of the interconnectedness of different parts of the Earth’s system and the impact that human activities can have on these processes.

Learn more: Carbon Cycle Lab

16. Investigate the Efficacy of Types of Fertilizer

Investigating the efficacy of different types of fertilizer can be an interesting and informative way to learn about plant growth and nutrition. Investigating the efficacy of different types of fertilizer is a practical and engaging way to learn about plant nutrition and the role of fertilizers in agriculture.

Learn more: Best Fertilizer

17. Explore the Impact of Genetic Modification on Seeds

Exploring the impact of genetic modification on seeds is a fascinating and relevant topic that can spark meaningful discussions and encourage learners to think critically about the role of science and technology in society.

Learn more: Genetically Modified (GM) Crops

18. Yeast Experiment

Another easy to perform experiment for high school students is the yeast. This experiment is simple since all that is required is the removal of four different food samples onto separate plates and a thorough examination of the mold that develops on each sample over time.

Learn more: Grow Yeast Experiment

19. Taste Perception 

The human tongue has specialized taste receptors that respond to five primary tastes: sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and umami (savory). Taste perception plays an important role in determining food preferences and dietary habits, as well as influencing the overall eating experience.

Learn more: Taste perception

20. Pea Plant Genetics

A classic pea plant genetics experiment involves cross breeding pea plants with different traits, such as flower color, seed shape, or pod shape.

This experiment can be conducted in a controlled environment, such as a greenhouse, by manually transferring pollen from one plant to another.

Learn more: Gregor Mendel Pea Experiment

21. Comparing Animal and Plant Cells

Comparing animal and plant cells is an important exercise in biology education. Both animal and plant cells are eukaryotic cells, meaning they contain a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles.

This exercise can help students understand the structure and function of cells, as well as appreciate the diversity of life on Earth.

Learn more: Comparing Plant Cell and Animal Cell

22.  Testing Bacteria 

Bacteria are easily accessible and can be grown in a laboratory or even at home with simple equipment and materials. This makes it a practical and cost-effective experiment for schools with limited resources.

Learn more: How to grow Bacteria and more

23. The Effect of Light on Growth

Light is a fundamental environmental factor that plays a crucial role in the growth and development of plants. By conducting this experiment, students can gain a deeper understanding of how light affects plant growth and why it is important.

Learn more: The effect of light in Plant Growth

24. Planaria Regeneration

Planaria regeneration allows students to design their own experiments, as they can choose which body parts to remove and study the effects of different variables, such as temperature, pH, or chemical treatments on the regeneration process.

Planaria are easy to obtain and maintain in a laboratory or classroom setting. They are also affordable, making it an ideal experiment for schools with limited resources.

Learn more: Planaria Experiment

25. Making a Seed Board

Making a seed board can be a fun and engaging activity for students, as they can see the progress of their plants over time and share their results with others. It can also foster a sense of responsibility and ownership in caring for their plants.

26. Design an Owl Pellet

Dissecting an owl pellet provides a hands-on learning experience for students, allowing them to practice skills in scientific observation, data collection, and analysis. Students can also learn about the anatomy of the prey species found in the owl pellet.

27. Grow an Herbal Cutting

Growing an herb cutting provides a hands-on learning experience for students, allowing them to practice skills in plant care, experimental design, and data collection. Students can learn about the different stages of plant growth and the factors that affect it.

28. Eat a Cell Model

Creating an edible cell model connects to various disciplines, such as biology, anatomy, and nutrition. Students can learn about the different organelles that make up a cell and their functions, as well as the nutritional value of the food materials used in the model

29. Make a Habitat Diorama

Making a habitat diorama provides a hands-on learning experience for students, allowing them to practice skills in research, creative design, and presentation. Students can learn about different ecosystems and the organisms that inhabit them.

30. Create a Fall Leaf (or Signs of Spring) Journal

Creating a fall leaf (or signs of spring) journal provides a hands-on learning experience for students, allowing them to practice skills in observation, data collection, and analysis. Students can learn about the changes that occur in nature during the fall or spring season.

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Awesome STEM Projects for High School Biology (From 30 min to 2 Weeks!)

When choosing a STEM activity for your high school Biology students, it can be a fine line between fun and corny. You’ll want to ensure you are meeting NGSS standards, but you also want your students to be engaged, informed, and most importantly, to have fun.

To help you achieve this goal, we have pulled together some ideas for  STEM projects for high school biology that we have used with students that were a success – organized by how much time you may be trying to fill.

Related post: Biology Science Fair Projects for 10th Grade

Here’s how you can get your students engaged in Biology while meeting the goals of your curriculum and NGSS.

I Only Have 30 Minutes for the STEM Project!

If you only have 30 minutes for an activity, you’ll want that activity to really “wow” your students. So how about making it a hands-on lab with minimal setup or cleanup?

Our favorite is a Genetics activity that students really go crazy over where they discover what a SuperTaster is, and whether or not they carry the SuperTaster Gene. This activity leads to discussions about the Survival of the Fittest, Punnett Squares, and family pedigrees.

Here’s how it’s done: Students are given 4 small paper tabs (one at a time) containing either Control, PTC, Sodium Benzoate, and Thiourea. Each student should keep track of what each tastes like on a chart, as well as how it tastes for the entire class. Some students may find the paper’s taste strong (very bitter!) or like nothing at all. Hilarity ensues in the Genetics lab. You can purchase your own Supe rTaster Genetics Lab Kit and have fun with Genetics!

I Have 3 Days for the Biology Project

If you have three days to run your Biology project, we’ve found it’s best to start telling a story that carries students from day to day and gets them excited about what could happen tomorrow.

What’s more exciting than a mystery? By teaching students about Forensics, methods in Forensic Science such as Fingerprinting (fingerprint your students!), DNA, and PCR, your students will discover how scientists use Forensics in the real world. 

On Day 2, have your students figure out what type of fingerprints they all have, and make a class chart (this is important for Day 3). They should also learn how to read DNA Electrophoresis Bands, and practice with a worksheet . 

On Day 3, before class, you will need to contact one of your students ahead of time (in each class) and ask them to help you by providing clues for a mystery. Tell them that they have been chosen to be the “guilty” student, but they can’t give it away no matter what. They will provide you with:

• Their fingerprint type – you can either take actual samples of their fingerprint or a fake printout of their type of fingerprint
• Shoe print or shoe tracing on paper
• Strand of their hair taped to paper

Strategically place each of the clues around the room and before the students come in, remove something obvious from the room like the flag and the like. In our class, we removed a beloved taxidermied duck.

Tell the students that one of their classmates is suspected to have stolen this item, but you need their help to figure out who. See if they can find the clues and guess who the guilty person is. They will need to compare the fingerprint to their class list to narrow it down, compare the hair sample to others in the class under a microscope, and look at the shoe print compared to all of the shoes students are wearing.

I’ve also had a surprise DNA sample as a tie-breaker to throw into the mix that lists multiple students in the class and they need to compare it to the known sample at the scene. In the past, students have really gotten into this, and have even turned the activity into a full-court trial with expert witnesses.

Have fun with it – the kids might surprise you!

Ooh, I Have a 4th Day for my STEM Project in High School Biology!

Awesome, you are in for a treat!

You and your students should take what you started with Forensics a step farther and extract DNA from your own human cheek cells.   The process for this can be a little tricky and the experiment is a little finicky, but when it works, it’ll be AMAZING!

We’ve done this with mixed results and can attest that when they say your Ethanol needs to be cold, they aren’t kidding. It needs to be on ice the whole time! Also, you know your students. If you have students who aren’t the best at following directions exactly, then the strawberry or banana DNA extraction might be for you since they are a little more forgiving.

Think of the awe and admiration your students will have for you when you show them their DNA. Go for it, you amazing science wizard!

I Have 2 Weeks for this High School Biology Project! 

The best way that we’ve seen to get students to really remember content, is by making a movie about it. Not just any movie, but a stop motion animation video. Using iMovie, it’s really easy to make these, so hopefully, your students have iPads or iPhones.

If you haven’t made a stop motion animation video in iMovie before, there are lots of tutorials out there. But the basics are to make sure in iMovie after you drop your photos, get rid of Ken Burns Effect on all images, delete fade between pictures, and shorten all of the transitions in between pictures to the shortest time possible by selecting and dragging smaller.

If you can’t figure it out, don’t worry, your students will teach you. With our students, we’ve made stop motion videos on topics ranging from Protein Synthesis to Mitosis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can i get materials for these stem activities.

That varies depending on the activity. It also depends on where your school orders supplies for science. Carolina Biological Supply , Fisher Scientific , and even Amazon all have great Biology supplies at good prices.

These STEM activities are awesome! How can I find more like these?

There are so many amazing things to do out there. For more great resources, try going to SciStarter to find a Citizen Science project for your students. There are also some content-specific full curriculum resources such as this fantastic Climate Change Curriculum from Stanford University.

My school doesn’t have a lab or a very big budget. How can I do cool Biology projects without spending much money?

We’ve been there. In a deep ocean lesson, we have taught students about the decomposition of marine organisms on the seafloor by having them make a “slimy whale goo”. It was just cornstarch, water, and green food coloring, but they LOVED it. Doing any science, including Biology doesn’t have to cost a ton of money, it’s all about being creative. We have students draw… a lot. We also utilize full class projects, breaking up student tasks toward one goal which minimizes the total amount of needed materials!

Mark is the driving force behind STEM Geek. With 20 years of experience in chemistry education and research, and 3 willing children as guinea pigs, Mark has a passion for inspiring kids and adults to combine fun and learning with STEM Toys!

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10 Best Biology Project Ideas For High School Students

1. botanical illustrations: capture plant diversity creatively., 2. genetics simulation: understand inheritance through virtual models., 3. ecological field study: explore local ecosystems in-depth., 4. microorganism cultivation: grow and observe bacteria or fungi., 5. comparative anatomy: compare anatomy across species., 6. dna extraction: extract dna from everyday items., 7. evolutionary timeline: create a visual timeline of life's evolution., 8. behavior observation : study animal behavior in controlled settings., 9. disease investigation: analyze causes and effects of a disease. , 10. bioinformatics project: analyze genetic data using computational tools., discover more stories.

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High School Biology Experiment Ideas

Science Projects on Dish Detergents

High school level biology covers all aspects of biology, including animals, plant life and humans. That should mean it’s easy to come up with a science fair project or a classroom research project, but the amount of topics sometimes makes it even harder. When you first start researching, you’ll find thousands of ideas and it’s difficult to decide which one is best for your situation. Provided that you know what you want to do and what your teacher or judges are looking for, it’s easy to come up with a great biology experiment.

Effects on Plants

Test the effects of different substances on plants. Place plants from the same source in pots of the same size, then use different types of materials. You can test different types of potting soil against regular dirt or use the same type of potting soil and test other substances. Water the plants with different types of bottled water and tap water from your home and other homes or add a small amount of vinegar and other liquids to see how the plants react to those substances. Observe the effects of the different substances on the plants and measure how quickly each plant grows in comparison to the others.

Water Bottles

Test the amount of germs and toxins found when you refill a water bottle. Start by taking a sample swab from the outside lip of the bottle and looking at the water under a microscope for any bacteria or impurities. Then drink from the bottle as you otherwise would and test the bottle each time you refill it with extra water. Student athletes can even use the same plastic water bottles they carry with them to practice every day. Each time, you'll want to swab the inside lip of the bottle and look at the swab under a microscope. Identify any bacteria or toxins by looking at the examples found in your textbook.

Public Germs

You might be surprised when you check different public areas for germs. Take swabs at public bathrooms, in your classroom, on the door handles at stores and even books at the public library. Look at the swabs under a microscope and see what types of germs you find. Then offer a comparison of the germs and explain your findings. Discuss which germs are harmful and what levels of germs you found.

Do a biology experiment focusing on how the hair reacts to different types of products. Test shampoos, conditioners, hair gels, hair sprays and other products. Look for residue left behind by the product, but take a few sample hairs before you begin. Check the consistency and health of the sample hairs under a microscope and compare those results against hairs after using the products. Observe any changes you notice in the look or feel of your hair, as well. Then look for signs that the hair has become more damaged or healthier since you used the product. You’ll need to narrow it down to just a few products, but if you have more time, use one product for several days before switching to another.

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Jennifer Eblin has been a full-time freelance writer since 2006. Her work has appeared on several websites, including Tool Box Tales and Zonder. Eblin received a master's degree in historic preservation from the Savannah College of Art and Design.

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Biology Projects are great teaching tools educators can use to boost student interest in the subject and spark classroom participation.

Testing plants and gravity

Testing root growth in relationship to gravity is a fun and simple idea. To do this, students need to cut a strip of paper towel approximately one inch wide. Then, they lay pinto beans on the strip and roll it up. Next, moisten the strip and tape it to a square of cardboard, placing the entire thing in a zip top bag. Finally, place it in a warm window and observe over time and look for roots and stems to sprout.

Once the roots and stems sprout, students will notice that the sprouts point up and the roots point down. After making this observation, students should turn the bag so the plant is growing sideways, then upside down, continuing to observe root growth with these changes

Fruit flies and tea

Tea is often offered as a healthful drink, but which tea is the most healthful? This project tries to answer that. To set up the fruit fly and tea experiment, students must create a mixture of tea and fruit fly food. This works best when students choose four different teas to test four different groups of flies. A fifth group — the control group — will receive fruit fly food with plain water. The tea should be brewed by seeping a tea bag in three tablespoons of boiling water for a set period of time. Then, it should be mixed with fruit fly food.

Once the food is prepared, it should be added to five separate vials. Then, each vial receives 10 adult fruit flies. Every day, the fruit flies that remain alive should be removed and transferred to a new vial that contains the same tea and food mixture. This should be repeated until all fruit flies have died. The student can then determine which food/tea mixture provided the greatest longevity to the flies.

Cleaning oil off birds

When birds are coated with oil after an oil spill, their life is at risk. This project will test a variety of solvents to determine which is the best to use in this situation. It uses feathers, not live birds, to make this determination.

The experiment begins with weighing several sets of feathers, then dipping bird feathers in oil. After the feathers are dipped, they are weighed again. This shows the weight of the oil on the feathers and serves as the means of measuring the effectiveness of the solvents.

Once they are all dipped and weighed, the feathers are washed in a range of cleaners, with one group remaining unwashed to serve as a control. After washing, the feathers are weighed yet again. This should indicate which solvent is the most effective, as the feathers washed in it will show the most oil weight loss.

Vitamin C and colds

Vitamin C is often offered as a solution to help prevent the common cold. This simple experiment helps determine if there is much fact to this common bit of advice. The student selects two groups of willing participants, preferably people who do not live in the same house. One group will agree to take a vitamin C tablet daily for a month, while the second will agree not to. All will record any cold symptoms they experience during that month.

At the end of the month, the groups will switch. After a second month, the data can be collected and analyzed to determine if taking vitamin C made a difference in cold symptoms.

Each of these biology project ideas tackles a different aspect of the subject, including botany, environmental science, human biology and zoology. They all provide an interesting way to present important biology ideas to students in a way that encourages inquiry.

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70 Best High School Science Fair Projects in Every Subject

Fire up the Bunsen burners!

The cool thing about high school science fair projects is that kids are old enough to tackle some pretty amazing concepts. Some science experiments for high school are just advanced versions of simpler projects they did when they were younger, with detailed calculations or fewer instructions. Other projects involve fire, chemicals, or other materials they couldn’t use before.

Note: Some of these projects were written as classroom labs but can be adapted to become science fair projects too. Just consider variables that you can change up, like materials or other parameters. That changes a classroom activity into a true scientific method experiment!

To make it easier to find the right high school science fair project idea for you, we’ve rated all the projects by difficulty and the materials needed:

Difficulty:

• Easy: Low or no-prep experiments you can do pretty much anytime
• Medium: These take a little more setup or a longer time to complete
• Advanced: Experiments like these take a fairly big commitment of time or effort
• Basic: Simple items you probably already have around the house
• Medium: Items that you might not already have but are easy to get your hands on
• Advanced: These require specialized or more expensive supplies to complete
• Biology and Life Sciences High School Science Fair Projects

Chemistry High School Science Fair Projects

Physics high school science fair projects, engineering high school stem fair projects, biology and life science high school science fair projects.

Explore the living world with these biology science project ideas, learning more about plants, animals, the environment, and much more.

Extract DNA from an onion

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Medium

You don’t need a lot of supplies to perform this experiment, but it’s impressive nonetheless. Turn this into a science fair project by trying it with other fruits and vegetables too.

Re-create Mendel’s pea plant experiment

Gregor Mendel’s pea plant experiments were some of the first to explore inherited traits and genetics. Try your own cross-pollination experiments with fast-growing plants like peas or beans.

Make plants move with light

By this age, kids know that many plants move toward sunlight, a process known as phototropism. So high school science fair projects on this topic need to introduce variables into the process, like covering seedling parts with different materials to see the effects.

Test the 5-second rule

We’d all like to know the answer to this one: Is it really safe to eat food you’ve dropped on the floor? Design and conduct an experiment to find out (although we think we might already know the answer).

Find out if color affects taste

Just how interlinked are all our senses? Does the sight of food affect how it tastes? Find out with a fun food science fair project like this one!

See the effects of antibiotics on bacteria

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Advanced

Bacteria can be divided into two groups: gram-positive and gram-negative. In this experiment, students first determine the two groups, then try the effects of various antibiotics on them. You can get a gram stain kit , bacillus cereus and rhodospirillum rubrum cultures, and antibiotic discs from Home Science Tools.

Learn more: Antibiotics Project at Home Science Tools

Witness the carbon cycle in action

Experiment with the effects of light on the carbon cycle. Make this science fair project even more interesting by adding some small aquatic animals like snails or fish into the mix.

Learn more: Carbon Cycle at Science Lessons That Rock

Look for cell mitosis in an onion

Cell mitosis (division) is actually easy to see in action when you look at onion root tips under a microscope. Students will be amazed to see science theory become science reality right before their eyes. Adapt this lab into a high school science fair project by applying the process to other organisms too.

Test the effects of disinfectants

Grow bacteria in a petri dish along with paper disks soaked in various antiseptics and disinfectants. You’ll be able to see which ones effectively inhibit bacteria growth.

Learn more: Effectiveness of Antiseptics and Disinfectants at Amy Brown Science

Pit hydroponics against soil

Growing vegetables without soil (hydroponics) is a popular trend, allowing people to garden just about anywhere.

More Life Sciences and Biology Science Fair Projects for High School

Use these questions and ideas to design your own experiment:

• Explore ways to prevent soil erosion.
• What are the most accurate methods of predicting various weather patterns?
• Try out various fertilization methods to find the best and safest way to increase crop yield.
• What’s the best way to prevent mold growth on food for long-term storage?
• Does exposure to smoke or other air pollutants affect plant growth?
• Compare the chemical and/or bacterial content of various water sources (bottled, tap, spring, well water, etc.).
• Explore ways to clean up after an oil spill on land or water.
• Conduct a wildlife field survey in a given area and compare it to results from previous surveys.
• Find a new use for plastic bottles or bags to keep them out of landfills.
• Devise a way to desalinate seawater and make it safe to drink.

Bunsen burners, beakers and test tubes, and the possibility of (controlled) explosions? No wonder chemistry is such a popular topic for high school science fair projects!

Break apart covalent bonds

Break the covalent bond of H 2 O into H and O with this simple experiment. You only need simple supplies for this one. Turn it into a science fair project by changing up the variables—does the temperature of the water matter? What happens if you try this with other liquids?

Learn more: Covalent Bonds at Teaching Without Chairs

Measure the calories in various foods

Are the calorie counts on your favorite snacks accurate? Build your own calorimeter and find out! This kit from Home Science Tools has all the supplies you’ll need.

Detect latent fingerprints

Forensic science is engrossing and can lead to important career opportunities too. Explore the chemistry needed to detect latent (invisible) fingerprints, just like they do for crime scenes!

Learn more: Fingerprints Project at Hub Pages

Use Alka-Seltzer to explore reaction rate

Difficulty: Easy / Materials: Easy

Tweak this basic concept to create a variety of high school chemistry science fair projects. Change the temperature, surface area, pressure, and more to see how reaction rates change.

Determine whether sports drinks provide more electrolytes than OJ

Are those pricey sports drinks really worth it? Try this experiment to find out. You’ll need some special equipment for this one; buy a complete kit at Home Science Tools .

Turn flames into a rainbow

You’ll need to get your hands on a few different chemicals for this experiment, but the wow factor will make it worth the effort! Make it a science project by seeing if different materials, air temperature, or other factors change the results.

Discover the size of a mole

The mole is a key concept in chemistry, so it’s important to ensure students really understand it. This experiment uses simple materials like salt and chalk to make an abstract concept more concrete. Make it a project by applying the same procedure to a variety of substances, or determining whether outside variables have an effect on the results.

Learn more: How Big Is a Mole? at Amy Brown Science

Cook up candy to learn mole and molecule calculations

This edible experiment lets students make their own peppermint hard candy while they calculate mass, moles, molecules, and formula weights. Tweak the formulas to create different types of candy and make this into a sweet science fair project!

Learn more: Candy Chemistry at Dunigan Science on TpT

Make soap to understand saponification

Take a closer look at an everyday item: soap! Use oils and other ingredients to make your own soap, learning about esters and saponification. Tinker with the formula to find one that fits a particular set of parameters.

Learn more: Saponification at Chemistry Solutions on TpT

Uncover the secrets of evaporation

Explore the factors that affect evaporation, then come up with ways to slow them down or speed them up for a simple science fair project.

Learn more: Evaporation at Science Projects

More Chemistry Science Fair Projects for High School

These questions and ideas can spark ideas for a unique experiment:

• Compare the properties of sugar and artificial sweeteners.
• Explore the impact of temperature, concentration, and seeding on crystal growth.
• Test various antacids on the market to find the most effective product.
• What is the optimum temperature for yeast production when baking bread from scratch?
• Compare the vitamin C content of various fruits and vegetables.
• How does temperature affect enzyme-catalyzed reactions?
• Investigate the effects of pH on an acid-base chemical reaction.
• Devise a new natural way to test pH levels (such as cabbage leaves).
• What’s the best way to slow down metal oxidation (the form of rust)?
• How do changes in ingredients and method affect the results of a baking recipe?

When you think of physics science projects for high school, the first thing that comes to mind is probably the classic build-a-bridge. But there are plenty of other ways for teens to get hands-on with physics concepts. Here are some to try.

Remove the air in a DIY vacuum chamber

You can use a vacuum chamber to do lots of cool high school science fair projects, but a ready-made one can be expensive. Try this project to make your own with basic supplies.

Learn more: Vacuum Chamber at Instructables

Put together a mini Tesla coil

Looking for a simple but showy high school science fair project? Build your own mini Tesla coil and wow the crowd!

Boil water in a paper cup

Logic tells us we shouldn’t set a paper cup over a heat source, right? Yet it’s actually possible to boil water in a paper cup without burning the cup up! Learn about heat transfer and thermal conductivity with this experiment. Go deeper by trying other liquids like honey to see what happens.

Build a better light bulb

Emulate Edison and build your own simple light bulb. You can turn this into a science fair project by experimenting with different types of materials for filaments.

Measure the speed of light—with your microwave

Grab an egg and head to your microwave for this surprisingly simple experiment. By measuring the distance between cooked portions of egg whites, you’ll be able to calculate the wavelength of the microwaves in your oven and, in turn, the speed of light.

Generate a Lichtenberg figure

See electricity in action when you generate and capture a Lichtenberg figure with polyethylene sheets, wood, or even acrylic and toner. Change the electrical intensity and materials to see what types of patterns you can create.

Learn more: Lichtenberg Figure at Science Notes

Explore the power of friction with sticky note pads

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Basic

Ever try to pull a piece of paper out of the middle of a big stack? It’s harder than you think it would be! That’s due to the power of friction. In this experiment, students interleave the sheets of two sticky note pads, then measure how much weight it takes to pull them apart. The results are astonishing!

Build a cloud chamber to prove background radiation

Ready to dip your toe into particle physics? Learn about background radiation and build a cloud chamber to prove the existence of muons.

Measure the effect of temperature on resistance

This is a popular and classic science fair experiment in physics. You’ll need a few specialized supplies, but they’re pretty easy to find.

Learn more: Temperature and Resistance at Science Project

Launch the best bottle rocket

A basic bottle rocket is pretty easy to build, but it opens the door to lots of different science fair projects. Design a powerful launcher, alter the rocket so it flies higher or farther, or use only recycled materials for your flyer.

More Physics Science Fair Projects for High School

Design your own experiment in response to these questions and prompts.

• Determine the most efficient solar panel design and placement.
• What’s the best way to eliminate friction between two objects?
• Explore the best methods of insulating an object against heat loss.
• What effect does temperature have on batteries when stored for long periods of time?
• Test the effects of magnets or electromagnetic fields on plants or other living organisms.
• Determine the best angle and speed of a bat swing in baseball.
• What’s the best way to soundproof an area or reduce noise produced by an item?
• Explore methods for reducing air resistance in automotive design.
• Use the concepts of torque and rotation to perfect a golf swing.
• Compare the strength and durability of various building materials.

Many schools are changing up their science fairs to STEM fairs, to encourage students with an interest in engineering to participate. Many great engineering science fair projects start with a STEM challenge, like those shown here. Use these ideas to spark a full-blown project to build something new and amazing!

Construct a model maglev train

Maglev trains may just be the future of mass transportation. Build a model at home, and explore ways to implement the technology on a wider basis.

Learn more: Maglev Model Train at Supermagnete

Design a more efficient wind turbine

Wind energy is renewable, making it a good solution for the fossil fuel problem. For a smart science fair project, experiment to find the most efficient wind turbine design for a given situation.

Re-create Da Vinci’s flying machine

Da Vinci sketched several models of “flying machines” and hoped to soar through the sky. Do some research into his models and try to reconstruct one of your own.

Learn more: Da Vinci Flying Machine at Student Savvy

Design a heart-rate monitor

Smartwatches are ubiquitous these days, so pretty much anyone can wear a heart-rate monitor on their wrist. But do they work any better than one you can build yourself? Get the specialized items you need like the Arduino LilyPad Board on Amazon.

Race 3D printed cars

3D printers are a marvel of the modern era, and budding engineers should definitely learn to use them. Use Tinkercad or a similar program to design and print race cars that can support a defined weight, then see which can roll the fastest! (No 3D printer in your STEM lab? Check the local library. Many of them have 3D printers available for patrons to use.)

Learn more: 3D Printed Cars at Instructables

Grow veggies in a hydroponic garden

Hydroponics is the gardening wave of the future, making it easy to grow plants anywhere with minimal soil required. For a science fair STEM engineering challenge, design and construct your own hydroponic garden capable of growing vegetables to feed a family. This model is just one possible option.

Learn more: Hydroponics at Instructables

Grab items with a mechanical claw

Delve into robotics with this engineering project. This kit includes all the materials you need, with complete video instructions. Once you’ve built the basic structure, tinker around with the design to improve its strength, accuracy, or other traits.

Learn more: Hydraulic Claw at KiwiCo

Construct a crystal radio

Return to the good old days and build a radio from scratch. This makes a cool science fair project if you experiment with different types of materials for the antenna. It takes some specialized equipment, but fortunately, Home Science Tools has an all-in-one kit for this project.

Learn more: Crystal Radio at Scitoys.com

Build a burglar alarm

The challenge? Set up a system to alert you when someone has broken into your house or classroom. This can take any form students can dream up, and you can customize this STEM high school science experiment for multiple skill levels. Keep it simple with an alarm that makes a sound that can be heard from a specified distance. Or kick it up a notch and require the alarm system to send a notification to a cell phone, like the project at the link.

Learn more: Intruder Alarm at Instructables

Walk across a plastic bottle bridge

Balsa wood bridges are OK, but this plastic bottle bridge is really impressive! In fact, students can build all sorts of structures using the concept detailed at the link. It’s the ultimate upcycled STEM challenge!

Learn more: TrussFab Structures at Instructables

Looking for more science content? Check out the Best Science Websites for Middle and High School .

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26 Biology Internships for High School Students

Are you fascinated by the natural world and curious about how living things work? Do you dream of a career in medicine, conservation, or research? If so, a biology internship in high school could be the perfect starting point for your journey.

In this blog, we’ll share 26 incredible biology-related internship programs designed specifically for high school students like you. Through these internships, you’ll work alongside professionals, conduct real-world research, and discover your niche in the exciting world of biology.

Table of Contents

Benefits of Biology Internships for High School Students

Biology isn’t just about textbook diagrams and memorizing complex terms. For high school students curious about the living world, biology internships offer a chance to bridge the gap between theory and real-world application.

• Hands-on learning: Internships provide opportunities to use microscopes, prepare solutions, conduct experiments, or participate in field research. This practical experience solidifies your understanding of biological concepts and sparks a deeper passion for the subject.
• Discover diverse fields: Biology is a vast and ever-advancing field. Internships expose you to various areas like genetics, ecology, marine biology, and conservation. This exploration helps you identify specific interests and paves the way for a more focused college path.
• Develop valuable skills: Internships aren’t just about collecting data. You’ll hone critical skills like problem-solving, data analysis, and scientific communication. You’ll also learn valuable lab techniques and time management strategies. These skills are highly sought-after in academic and professional settings.
• Boost your college application: Colleges appreciate students who take initiative. An internship shows your passion for biology and sets you apart from other applicants. The experience provides valuable talking points for essays and interviews, showing your research skills and commitment to the field.
• Network and build relationships: Internships connect you with professionals in the field. You’ll learn from experienced researchers, gain valuable mentorship, and potentially build lasting relationships that could lead to future research opportunities or even letters of recommendation.

1. Yocket High School Summer Internship Program

The Yocket High School Summer Internship is an intensive 4-week virtual program designed to spark your passion for biology. You’ll gain hands-on experience by working on real-world projects, like dissecting plant structures or analyzing DNA samples. Our expert mentors, accomplished biologists themselves, will guide you every step of the way, from project completion to crafting a stellar college application that highlights your newfound skills and knowledge.

This program goes beyond just the lab. Weekly mentorship sessions, practice assessments to gauge your understanding, and an official letter of recommendation will solidify your academic profile. You’ll also receive a director-signed certificate commemorating your achievement. With limited spots available for only 50 students and scholarship applications closing soon, apply now and join a global network of ambitious science enthusiasts.

2. Boyce Thompson Institute (BTI) High School Research Internships

The Boyce Thompson Institute (BTI) High School Research Internship offers a six-week summer program (June 25th to August 9th), which is open to local Ithaca, NY, students aged 16 and above. It’s an opportunity to gain firsthand experience and see if a biology major or a science career is right for you.

As a paid intern earning $4,000, you’ll work with graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and a faculty mentor on real-world plant research projects. You’ll also participate in workshops, discussions, lectures, and field trips, all designed to broaden your scientific knowledge. The program concludes with a symposium, where you’ll present your research findings, allowing you to show your learnings.

3. Broad Summer Scholars Program

The Broad Summer Scholars Program (BSSP) is a six-week intensive program (June 3–August 2) where rising high school seniors can work on real-world research alongside leading scientists. Students will work on advanced projects in fields like cancer biology, computational biology, and infectious disease.

Additionally, BSSP offers career exploration workshops, scientific talks, and a chance to present research findings at a poster session. The program prioritizes students with a strong science and math background (Bs required) and a passion for scientific exploration. 

Students from underrepresented backgrounds and underserved communities are especially encouraged to apply. To top it all off, participants receive a $3,600 stipend to help with program expenses.

4. Eugene and Ruth Roberts Summer Student Academy

The Eugene and Ruth Roberts Summer Student Academy is a prestigious 10-week program (June 3–August 9) that offers high school and undergraduate students the chance to solve a real scientific challenge. You’ll work alongside a research team on a project of your choosing and gain hands-on experience in a professional lab setting.

Mentorship from leading scientists will provide you with critical thinking and communication skills, while workshops and seminars will further enhance your learning. You’ll also build a network of like-minded peers and present your research findings at the program’s conclusion. To top it off, you’ll receive a $4,000 stipend in recognition of your hard work.

5. Fred Hutch Cancer Center Summer High School Internship Program (SHIP)

The Fred Hutch Cancer Center offers a competitive, eight-week paid summer internship program (SHIP) specifically designed for rising 12th graders from backgrounds underrepresented in biomedical science. The program runs from June 24th to August 16th and consists of two parts. During the first two weeks, interns receive intensive training in laboratory safety and essential techniques.

This provides them for the following six weeks, where they’ll be placed in a Fred Hutch research lab and participate in mentored activities alongside scientists. Interns will work a standard 40-hour week, Monday through Friday, and receive a stipend. While the program is open to students nationwide, it’s important to note that interns are responsible for securing their own housing and transportation during the internship.

6. George Mason University’s Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program (ASSIP)

George Mason University’s Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program (ASSIP) is a free program open to high school and undergraduate students eager for hands-on experience. Over eight weeks (June 18–August 9), you’ll work alongside Mason researchers, and gain firsthand experience with advanced equipment and technology in various STEM fields.

ASSIP helps you develop skills in scientific writing and communication. There’s even the potential to have your research published or presented at a conference. Keep in mind that age requirements vary by internship type. In-person, remote, and hybrid computer lab internships require participants to be over 15, while “wet lab” based internships require participants to be over 16.

7. George Washington Carver Internship Program

The George Washington Carver Internship Program offers an eight-week experience (June 3–August 1) for US citizens and legal residents with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Selected students will live on the campus of Iowa State University and collaborate with mentors on research projects related to food systems and the agricultural process.

Interns will dedicate 30–40 hours weekly to their research, culminating in an abstract, a written report, and a final presentation at a colloquium. To be considered for this opportunity, applications must be submitted by February 1. The program provides on-campus housing, a meal plan, round-trip airfare, and a stipend to cover additional expenses.

8. Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program (HOPP) Summer Student Program

The Human Oncology and Pathogenesis Program (HOPP) Summer Student Program is an eight-week intensive program designed to provide you with hands-on experience in a world-renowned cancer research center. You’ll work alongside researchers on your own project, attend training sessions to build your scientific foundation, and receive mentorship from experts in the field.

The program culminates in a poster session where you’ll present your research findings. This is a full-time commitment (40 hours a week), typically running from 9 am to 5 pm or 10 am to 6 pm, and you’ll be compensated with a stipend for your participation.

9. Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program

The Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program is an eight-week paid summer internship sponsored by the American Fisheries Society. It is designed to spark interest in fisheries and aquatic science among underrepresented groups. The program offers opportunities for rising high school juniors, seniors, and even college freshmen across all 50 states, Canada, Mexico, and Puerto Rico.

Interns work with fisheries professionals and gain hands-on experience through activities like fish population surveys, habitat restoration, electrofishing, examining specimens, water quality testing, and data analysis. Selected interns receive a $3,000 stipend, work 32–40 hours per week, and even attend an all-expenses-paid trip to the Hutton Scholars Summit.

10. Idaho National Laboratory (INL) Internships

Idaho National Laboratory (INL) offers a great opportunity for high school students to gain valuable STEM experience through paid internships. You’ll be paired with mentors to work on real-world projects, develop innovative solutions, and gain hands-on experience in a lab setting.

The program follows an 80/20 philosophy, meaning 80% of your time will be dedicated to lab work while the remaining 20% is devoted to professional development activities like workshops and skill-building sessions.

To be eligible, you’ll need a minimum 3.0 GPA, a clean background check, and a resume. Be sure to visit the INL website for specific application instructions and deadlines, as they can vary.

11. Indiana University Future Scientist Program

Indiana University’s Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center runs a summer program called the Future Scientist Program , specifically designed for high school juniors in Indianapolis and Marion County public schools. This eight-week program (June 3–July 26) offers an opportunity for science-interested students to gain hands-on experience in research.

Participants will be paired with mentors from the IU School of Medicine to work on a research project, which fosters their curiosity and investigative skills. Additionally, students will receive a stipend to acknowledge their contribution to the program.

12. Linking Individuals to Their Natural Community (LINC)

Linking Individuals to Their Natural Community (LINC) is a six-week paid internship program running from June 18th to August 2nd. If you live in Marin, San Francisco, San Mateo, Contra Costa, Solano, or Alameda Counties, this is your chance to dig deep into environmental stewardship while earning up to $2,300.

LINC combines hands-on activities like wildlife monitoring and habitat restoration with workshops on community building, service learning, and exploration. You’ll participate in adventurous experiences like camping and kayaking, all while getting a deeper understanding of the local environment and its impact on surrounding communities. 

13. Los Alamos National Laboratory High School Internship Program

The Los Alamos National Laboratory High School Internship Program provides a chance for qualified northern New Mexico high school seniors to gain hands-on experience in STEM fields. The program offers internships in various disciplines, including biological sciences. Interns will work on molecular biology and microbiology by learning essential lab procedures and assisting with routine maintenance tasks.

However, to be eligible, students must be residents of New Mexico, at least 16 years old, and have a minimum GPA of 3.0. Additionally, they will need to pass a drug test and submit a complete application package, including a resume, cover letter, and transcript.

14. Monell Science Apprenticeship Program

The Monell Science Apprenticeship Program is a competitive (only 18–24 students chosen) paid summer program, especially for underrepresented groups (females, minorities, and economically disadvantaged students). High schoolers and undergraduates living near Philadelphia can apply for this eight-week program (typically June 18th to August 16th). 

Apprentices will work on research projects alongside Monell scientists and gain valuable skills like public speaking, scientific writing, and research ethics through enrichment activities. The program culminates with a public conference where students present their research findings.

15. National Institutes of Health (NIH) High School Scientific Training and Enrichment Program (HiSTEP)

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) offers the High School Scientific Training and Enrichment Program (HiSTEP) for high school juniors interested in pursuing careers in biomedical research and healthcare. This program specifically targets students from the District of Columbia, Virginia, and Maryland (DMV) metro area who come from schools with a high percentage of students in the Federal Free/Reduced Lunch Program.

Held on the NIH campus in Bethesda, Maryland, HiSTEP is a four-week summer program (July 2–August 1) designed to introduce students to the vast world of STEM-M through workshops, lectures, and hands-on activities that build foundational scientific skills. To be eligible, students must be US citizens or legal residents, have a minimum GPA of 3.0, and currently be in their junior year of high school.

16. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory Young Women in Science (YWIS)

The Pacific Northwest National Laboratory’s (PNNL) Young Women in Science (YWIS) program is an opportunity for high school girls interested in STEM fields. This ten-week summer program (typically running from June to August) allows students to gain hands-on research experience by working alongside a scientist mentor in a specific area of research.

Beyond the lab, YWIS also offers a variety of activities designed to help students develop their skills, including laboratory demonstrations, field trips, and workshops on communication and career awareness.

17. Project Success: Opening the Door to Biomedical Careers

Harvard Medical School’s Department of Diversity and Inclusion offers Boston and Cambridge high school juniors and seniors a summer research internship program called Project Success . This program specifically targets students from underrepresented backgrounds in medicine and those facing disadvantages.

Project Success offers a paid opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience in research labs alongside mentors. Throughout the six-week program, interns will develop their technical skills, deepen their scientific knowledge, and strengthen their critical thinking abilities. Project Success also provides support to interns as they map out their academic and future career goals in the biomedical field.

18. Rockefeller University’s Summer Science Research Program (SSRP)

The Rockefeller University’s Summer Science Research Program (SSRP) offers an opportunity for high school juniors and seniors to experience real-world research alongside leading scientists. This seven-week program (June 24–August 8) allows students to work alongside mentors in small groups (8–10 students) on exciting research projects in various fields.

Past projects have explored diverse areas, like RNA viruses, the immune response to coronaviruses, and even the social behavior of ants. Additionally, SSRP provides core sessions that discuss the scientific process and provide students with professional development skills, like building resumes and LinkedIn profiles.

19. Roswell Park Summer Cancer Research Experience Program

The Roswell Park Summer Cancer Research Experience Program is a seven-week program. It offers high school juniors a chance to learn more about cancer research. You’ll gain hands-on lab experience, attend classroom sessions on cancer fundamentals, and participate in professional development activities.

Even better, you can tailor your research experience to your interests, focusing on areas like biostatistics, cancer biophysics, or molecular biology. Financial aid is available, with subsistence allowances awarded to some applicants and stipends to help cover program costs.

20. Scripps Research California High School Internship Program

The Scripps Research California High School Internship Program is a 10-week summer program designed to introduce rising high school students to biomedical research. Running from either June 3rd to August 9th or June 17th to August 23rd, the program offers hands-on laboratory experience and mentorship from leading scientists.

This program is especially dedicated to fostering the interest of students from underrepresented backgrounds in STEM fields and those who will be the first in their families to pursue college. This will provide them with research experience and guidance.

21. Student Conservation Association (SCA) National Crews

The Student Conservation Association’s (SCA) National Crews offer an incredible opportunity for high school students (ages 15–19) to gain hands-on experience in conservation while exploring the outdoors. This competitive program places students in teams of 6–8, led by two adult crew leaders, on projects ranging from two to five weeks.

Crew members will work on important tasks, like trail building and restoration, learning valuable skills and gaining a deeper understanding of ecology and environmental issues. Living in tents and cooking their meals, participants will build teamwork and leadership abilities while fostering a connection with nature and testing their own perseverance.

22. Summer Science Intensive: iCLEM

The Introductory College Level Experience in Microbiology (iCLEM) is a paid summer internship program designed to spark an interest in science for economically disadvantaged high school sophomores and juniors in Alameda, Contra Costa, and San Francisco Counties. 

Over seven weeks, students will be involved in the world of biotechnology, microbiology, and biofuels. Through mentored research projects, career exploration workshops, and college application guidance, iCLEM interns gain hands-on experience in labs while strengthening their foundation in molecular biology, synthetic biology, and biochemistry. This program pays participants a $3,000 stipend and provides them with the knowledge and skills to confidently pursue careers in science.

23. SUNY Oneonta Summer Research Internship

SUNY Oneonta offers a nine-week summer internship program for high school students residing in New York who are 16 years of age or older. This program is perfect for students interested in ecology and environmental research. Interns will gain valuable hands-on experience in various aspects of environmental science, including fieldwork data collection on Otsego Lake and the Susquehanna watershed, which focuses on water quality and biological life.

They’ll also learn laboratory and data analysis techniques, scientific writing, and presentation skills. While the number of positions offered changes year-to-year, typically one to three interns are selected. To apply by the deadline of April 12th every year, students will need to submit an application essay and two letters of recommendation.

24. The Jackson Laboratory Summer Student Program

The Jackson Laboratory Summer Student Program is a highly competitive 10-week program designed for high school seniors and undergraduate students to gain hands-on experience in genetics and genomics research. Held at either the Bar Harbor, Maine, or Farmington, Connecticut, campus, students will work closely with a mentor to design a research project, conduct experiments, analyze data, and present their findings.

This immersive program offers an opportunity to explore the field alongside leading researchers. With only 39 students accepted out of 569 applicants in 2023 (including just 3 high schoolers), admission is selective. However, selected students receive a $6,500 stipend to help offset program costs.

25. The University of Michigan’s Aspirnaut Summer Research Program

The University of Michigan offers a highly selective and prestigious summer program named the Aspirnaut Summer Research Program . This program accepts only eight to ten rising high school seniors from Michigan each year for a six-week summer experience. You’ll work with researchers on real-life projects in the life sciences and gain hands-on experience.

Beyond the lab, the program provides mentorship, college application guidance, and even standardized test preparation. To top it all off, you’ll live on campus at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor, giving you a first-hand look at college life. Plus, you’ll receive a stipend for your participation.

26. Wave Hill Forest Project

The Wave Hill Forest Project is a paid summer internship program ideal for New York City high school students interested in learning about ecology and environmental issues in an urban setting. Through hands-on fieldwork, interns gain experience in ecological restoration and urban ecology.

They also participate in college-level courses and hear from guest speakers working in various green careers. Interns work collaboratively in small crews and earn roughly $2,275 over the summer. There’s also the opportunity to earn three college credits upon successful completion of the coursework.

From the Desk of Yocket

A biology internship in high school can be a gratifying experience. It’s a way to turn what you learn in textbooks into real-world applications. You’ll gain practical skills, like working in a lab or conducting fieldwork, all under the guidance of experienced professionals. This hands-on experience can solidify your interest in biology or even spark curiosity in a specific area you might not have considered before. Perhaps you’ll discover a passion for genetics while assisting with research or fieldwork that might ignite an interest in conservation efforts.

Additionally, a biology internship can give you a significant edge when applying to colleges and future biology-related programs. Colleges value students who take initiative and explore their academic interests beyond the classroom. An internship shows your passion for the field and provides valuable experiences to discuss in essays and interviews. It can also help you build relationships with professionals who can provide valuable mentorship and even write letters of recommendation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are biology internships.

Biology internships are hands-on learning experiences that allow high school students to explore careers in biology. They can involve working in labs, assisting researchers with experiments, or participating in field studies to collect data.

What are the benefits of biology internships?

Biology internships offer a variety of benefits for high school students. They can help you gain valuable research experience, develop laboratory skills, like using microscopes or preparing solutions, learn about different areas of biology that you might be interested in, and strengthen your college applications by showing your passion for the field.

What qualifications are needed for a biology internship?

Qualifications for biology internships can vary, but most programs look for students with a strong interest in biology, good grades in science courses, and basic lab skills. Some programs may also require a resume, cover letter, and letter of recommendation from a science teacher.

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25 Biology Internships for High Schoolers in 2024

What’s covered:.

• 25 Biology Internships for High School Students in 2024
• How Much Do Internships Impact Your College Chances? 

Internships provide a host of benefits to high schoolers, particularly in fields like biology. High school biology internships allow students to gain real-world experience in the field and the lab, network with like-minded peers and professionals, and build valuable skills. High school biology internships also let students explore the field as a potential major—sampling college-level coursework, labs, and life.  

Internships can also boost a student’s odds of college admissions. They show a dedication to the fields that interest them and intellectual curiosity—two qualities that admissions officers are looking for.  

25 Biology Internships for High School Students

1. monell science apprenticeship program.

Application Deadline: N/A

Duration: Eight weeks (June 18 – August 16) 

This paid summer apprenticeship program seeks to stimulate interest in biomedical science and medicine careers, particularly in underrepresented groups, such as racial and ethnic minorities, females, and the economically disadvantaged. Participants work on research projects under the mentorship of Monell scientists and the program concludes with apprentices presenting their research at a public conference. Students also take part in a variety of enrichment activities designed to build skills like public speaking, written communication, and ethics.

The program is extremely competitive—just 18 to 24 students are chosen from hundreds of applications. The program is open to high schoolers and undergraduates with an interest in science and research who live in the greater Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, area.  

2. Student Conservation Association (SCA) National Crews

Duration: Two – five weeks

This volunteer program is competitive—it gets more strong applicants than it has open positions. Participants are divided into teams of six to eight students led by two adult leaders. Students learn a variety of skills while completing trail maintenance and restoration projects and gain firsthand knowledge about the environment and ecology. They also build leadership and teamwork skills and test their perseverance—they’ll live in tents and cook their own meals during the program.

Participants must be high school students between the ages of 15-19 with an interest in learning more about ecology or environmental topics.

3. SUNY Oneonta Summer Research Internship

Application Deadline: April 12

Duration: Nine weeks  

This fun, nine-week high school internship is open to New York residents ages 16 and older. Most projects interns undertake involve monitoring Otsego Lake and the Susquehanna watershed, with the bulk of the work focused on water quality and biota. Over the course of the summer, interns will gain firsthand experience with fieldwork, laboratory and data analysis, writing, and presenting findings.   

The number of open positions varies annually, however, generally, between one and three interns are hired. Applicants are required to submit an essay along with two references. 

4. University of Michigan Aspirnaut Internship Program

Duration: Six weeks (June 17 – July 26)

This prestigious summer internship program—just eight to 10 interns are accepted annually—offers students the opportunity to gain real-world research experience in the life sciences. In addition to research, students meet with mentors, receive standardized test preparation, and get college advice. Students also live and learn at the University of Michigan’s Ann Arbor campus, providing valuable insight into college life. 

The program is open to rising seniors from Michigan and students receive a stipend for their participation in the program.

5. Idaho National Laboratory (INL) Internships

Application Deadline: Varies

Duration: Varies

INL provides paid STEM internships to high school students, pairing interns with mentors to develop innovative solutions to real-world projects. INL internships follow an 80/20 philosophy: 80% of the internship is focused on lab work, while 20% is devoted to enrichment activities like workshops and skill building.  

Applicants must possess a minimum 3.0 GPA and pass a background check. They’re also required to submit a resume. 

6. Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program

Application Deadline: January 16 

Duration: Eight weeks  

This paid summer program is sponsored by the American Fisheries Society and aims to stimulate interest in fisheries and aquatic science among groups underrepresented in the profession. Opportunities are available in all 50 states plus Canada, Mexico, and Puerto Rico. Activities vary depending on the available opportunities but often include: 

• Taking fish population surveys
• Establishing aquatic vegetation and fish habitat
• Electrofishing
• Examining specimens under a microscope
• Water quality testing
• Data processing

The program is open to rising high school juniors, seniors, and rising college freshmen. Interns are expected to work between 32 and 40 hours a week and are compensated with a $3,000 stipend and an all-expenses-paid trip to the Hutton Scholars Summit. 

7. Boyce Thompson Institute (BTI) High School Research Internships

Duration: Six weeks (June 25 – August 9)

This paid internship opportunity for high school students ages 16 and over who are local to Ithaca, New York, is an excellent opportunity to explore majoring in biology and careers in science. Participants are involved in the day-to-day research of plants and receive mentorship from a graduate student or postdoctoral researcher, along with a faculty mentor. In addition to research, students participate in workshops, group discussions, lectures, and field trips. The program culminates with a symposium in which interns present their accomplishments.  

High school interns are compensated $4,000 for their work during the program.  

8. Rockefeller University Summer Science Research Program (SSRP)

Application Deadline: January 5

Duration: Seven weeks (June 24 – August 8)

SSRP is a great opportunity for high school juniors and seniors to gain real-world, mentored research experience. Participants will work 35 hours a week in groups of eight to ten students in a particular research track. Past tracks include: 

• RNA virus discovery and bioinformatics
• Coronavirus immune response
• Silkworm biomaterials
• Evolutionary behavior in fruit flies
• Nanobody binding patterns
• Mathematical and neurological basis of smell patterns
• Cultivation of wild yeast
• Modeling microbes in milk and cheese
• Ant social biology

Students also take part in core sessions designed to provide deeper insight into the experimental approach and scientific reasoning along with receiving professional development, such as help crafting resumes and LinkedIn profiles.  

9. George Mason University Aspiring Scientists Summer Internship Program (ASSIP)

Application Deadline: February 11

Duration: Eight weeks (June 18 – August 9)

ASSIP provides high school and undergraduate students the chance to work with researchers one-on-one and gain firsthand experience using cutting-edge equipment and technology. Participants in this free program explore STEM fields while developing a range of valuable skills—from scientific writing to communication. There is also the chance that participants’ work will be published in a scientific journal or presented at a conference.  

Students must be over 15 years old to participate in in-person, remote, and hybrid internships in computer labs and over 16 years old to participate in “wet lab” in-person and hybrid internships. 

10. National Institutes of Health (NIH) High School Scientific Training and Enrichment Program (HiSTEP)

Application Deadline: January 12 

Duration: Four weeks (July 2 – August 1) 

HiSTEP aims to expand the number of students interested in biomedical and healthcare careers—specifically high school juniors from the District of Columbia, Virginia, and Maryland (DMV) metro area. The program is held at the NIH campus in Bethesda, Maryland, and builds basic science skills while exploring a variety of STEM-M topics through workshops and lectures.  

To participate in the program, students must be citizens or legal U.S. residents, who are current high school juniors with a minimum 3.0 GPA, and attend a school where over 30% of the student body participates in the Federal Free/Reduced Lunch Program. 

11. George Washington Carver Internship Program

Application Deadline: February 1 

Duration: Eight weeks (June 3 – August 1) 

Students selected for this paid internship spend eight weeks on the campus of Iowa State conducting research alongside mentors. Students spend 30 to 40 hours a week completing research projects in fields like food systems and the agricultural process, preparing an abstract and written report, and presenting their findings at a colloquium.  

The program is open to U.S. citizens and legal residents with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Participants in the program are provided with on-campus housing, a meal plan, round-trip airfare, and a stipend.

12. Pacific Northwest National Laboratory Young Women in Science (YWIS)

Duration: 10 weeks (June – August) 

YWIS provides education research opportunities to female high school students with an interest in STEM. Students work in a particular research area with a scientist mentor while also participating in a variety of developmental activities, including laboratory demonstrations, field trips, and workshops.

13. Broad Summer Scholars Program

Application Deadline: January 10

Duration: Six weeks (June 3 – August 2)

The Broad Institute in Cambridge, Massachusetts, offers this opportunity that enables high schoolers to conduct research projects in fields like cancer biology, chemical biology, computational biology, and infectious disease. Participants also explore careers in science, attend scientific talks, develop their network of like-minded peers, and present their research at a scientific poster session.  

The program is open to rising Massachusetts high school seniors with Bs in science and math, and a demonstrated interest in science. Students from backgrounds underrepresented in the sciences and from underserved communities are strongly encouraged to apply. Participants earn a $3,600 stipend. 

14. Wave Hill Forest Project

Application Deadline: March 8

Duration: N/A

New York City residents with an interest in urban environmental issues will want to check out this project exploring ecological restoration and urban ecology. Students will gain firsthand experience with fieldwork, take college-level courses, and listen to guest speakers from a variety of green careers.  

Interns work in small crews and earn approximately $2,275 over the course of the summer. With the successful completion of coursework, they can also earn three college credits. 

15. Los Alamos National Laboratory High School Internship Program

Application Deadline: April 11

Los Alamos National Laboratory offers a number of STEM internship opportunities to rising high school seniors from northern New Mexico, including intern positions in biological science, where students will learn the basics of molecular biology and microbiology procedures and assist with routine lab maintenance. 

Applicants must be New Mexico residents, over the age of 16, possess a minimum 3.0 GPA, and pass a drug test. They must also submit a resume, cover letter, and transcript with their application. 

16. Scripps Research California High School Internship Program

Application Deadline: May 4

Duration: 10 weeks (June 3 – August 9 or June 17 – August 23)

This program exposes students with interests in careers in the biological and chemical sciences to contemporary issues in biomedical research and provides hands-on laboratory experience and mentorship. The program is particularly focused on students from groups underrepresented in the sciences and students who will be the first in their families to attend college. 

17. Indiana University Future Scientist Program

Application Deadline: March 1

Duration: Eight weeks (June 3 – July 26)

This eight-week summer program is open to high school juniors from Indianapolis and all Marion County public schools with an interest in science. Students will work on a research project at the University of Indiana’s School of Medicine, receive mentorship, and earn a stipend for their participation in the program.

18. Fred Hutch Cancer Center Summer High School Internship Program (SHIP)

Application Deadline: March 31 

Duration: Eight weeks (June 24 – August 16)

This competitive paid internship is aimed at rising 12th graders from backgrounds underrepresented in biomedical science. The program is divided into two parts—the first two weeks are focused on training in laboratory techniques and skills, and the following six weeks are devoted to mentored activities such as lab meetings and work. Interns work 40 hours a week, Monday through Friday, and are provided a stipend. 

The program is open to students across the U.S., although they must provide their own housing and transportation during the internship.

19. Eugene and Ruth Roberts Summer Student Academy

Application Deadline: March 13

Duration: 10 weeks (June 3 – August 9)

This summer program provides participants with the opportunity to perform real-world science work—conducting a research project and working as a member of a biomedical research team. Students receive mentorship, develop critical thinking and communication skills, build a network of peers and mentors, and gain valuable research experience.

Students will also participate in workshops and present their findings at seminars. Participants receive a stipend of $4,000 for their work.

20. Human Oncology & Pathogenesis Program (HOPP) Summer Student Program

Application Deadline: February 9

Duration: Eight weeks (June 27 – August 22)

Rising high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors will want to look into this summer program providing hands-on laboratory and research experience. Interns conduct their own research projects, attend training sessions, receive mentorship, and present their findings at a poster session at the end of the program.

Interns are expected to work full-time (40 hours a week), usually from 9 am to 5 pm or 10 am to 6 pm, over the course of the program. Students receive a stipend for their participation.

21. Project Success: Opening the Door to Biomedical Careers

Application Deadline: February 2

Duration: Six weeks (July 8 – August 16)

The Harvard Medical School Department of Diversity and Inclusion offers this summer research internship to Boston and Cambridge high school juniors and seniors from populations that are underrepresented in medicine and/or from disadvantaged backgrounds. Interns engage in hands-on research, develop their technical skills, build scientific knowledge, and hone valuable skills like critical thinking. Participants are also provided support in their pursuit of academic and career goals.

This is a paid internship.

22. Summer Science Intensive: iCLEM

Application Deadline: March 17

Duration: Seven weeks (June 10 – July 26)

The Introductory College Level Experience in Microbiology (iCLEM) aims to introduce disadvantaged high school sophomores and juniors to biotechnology, microbiology, and biofuels. Interns conduct a mentored research project, explore potential career paths, and prepare for the college application process while building fundamental knowledge in molecular biology, synthetic biology, and biochemistry.

The internship is open to students from Alameda, Contra Costa, and San Francisco Counties and participants earn a $3,000 stipend.

23. Linking Individuals to their Natural Community (LINC)

Application Deadline: March 10

Duration: Six weeks (June 18 – August 2)

This Bay Area program combines activities like wildlife monitoring and habitat restoration with community building, service learning, and exploration. Participants tackle a variety of activities and projects and have adventurous experiences—like camping and kayaking—while gaining a deeper understanding of the local environment and its influence on adjacent communities.

This opportunity is paid—interns can earn up to a $2,300 stipend—and is open to students from Marin, San Francisco, San Mateo, Contra Costa, Solano, and Alameda Counties.

24. Roswell Park Summer Cancer Research Experience Program

Duration: Seven weeks (June 24 – August 9)

High school juniors in Western New York interested in a future in science will want to explore this opportunity. Students gain firsthand experience with lab work, receive classroom instruction on cancer basics, and participate in a number of professional development events. Participants are given the chance to focus on a specific area of interest, including areas like biostatistics, cancer biophysics, molecular biology, and cancer genetics.

Subsistence allowances are awarded to a select number of applicants and stipends are available to help cover costs like transportation and food.

25. The Jackson Laboratory Summer Student Program

Application Deadline: January 29

Duration: 10 weeks (June 1 – August 10)

This prestigious summer program focused on genetics and genomics research is held at both Jackson Laboratory’s Bar Harbor, Maine, campus as well as its Farmington, Connecticut, campus. Participants work under the guidance of a mentor to develop a research project, implement their plan, analyze the data, and report their results.

Admission to this program is competitive—just 39 students were accepted from 569 applicants in 2023. Of accepted students, just three were in high school. Students earn a $6,500 stipend for their participation in the program.

How Much Do Internships Impact Your College Chances?  

Extracurricular activities such as internships play a considerable role in admissions decisions at many colleges. CollegeVine’s free admissions calculator can help you gain a better understanding of how participation in an internship influences your odds of college admission. Our free chancing calculator considers a variety of metrics—including academic performance, demographics, and extracurriculars like internships—to estimate your chances of acceptance at hundreds of schools across the country.

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Mini-Research Grant Award

New York Tech is pleased to announce the  Seventh Annual Mini-Research Grant Award (7th Annual MRGA)  and invites applications for high school research project proposals or continuing projects in STEM disciplines for a $300 award intended to offset the cost of research materials and related expenses. Proposals should be for research projects pursued in the 2024 calendar year.

Applicants (one student or student group) will be considered if they meet the following requirements:

• Must be a high school student(s) conducting a STEM-based research project
• The High School STEM discipline or Research Teacher/Mentor must include a completed form of endorsement for school support to the applicant, and confirm that the students will carry the project to completion
• Students must complete summary (continuing project or proposal) sections in their own words.
• Must have plans to compete in a related research competition (i.e. LISEF, Intel, Sigma Xi, etc.) and/or present work in progress at a New York Tech campus in-person or remotely.

Topics of the research project must be related to the following fields:

• Biology, Molecular Biology
• Biotechnology
• Engineering and Computer Science, Biomedical Engineering
• Health-related research, i.e. medicine, rehabilitation, aging, community health concerns, Alzheimer’s disease, healthy lifestyles, diabetes, etc. *Preference is given to student projects conceived and implemented with high school faculty mentors, and for project proposals that have preliminary data.

The next application cycle will reopen in November 2024.

We’re Here to Help: Contact Us

Send inquiries to the MRGA committee ( [email protected] ) or directly to:

• Dr. Niharika Nath – Professor, College of Arts and Sciences Email:  [email protected]
• Dr. Rosemary Gallagher – Associate Professor, School of Health Professions Email:  [email protected]
• Dr. Wenjia Li – Associate Professor, College of Engineering and Computing Sciences Email:  [email protected]

Learn More About Our Prestigious Mini-research Grant Award Committee Members

Dr. Niharika Nath Professor Department of Biological and Chemical Sciences NYIT College of Arts and Sciences [email protected]

Dr. Rosemary Gallagher Associate Professor Department of Physical Therapy NYIT School of Health Professions [email protected]

Dr. Wenjia Li Associate Professor Department of Computer Science NYIT College of Engineering and Computing Sciences [email protected]

Past Awards

January 2023.

The Sixth Annual MRGA 2023 program received research projects from 18 high schools in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut; awards were granted to 28 projects from 15 high schools. The $300 awards, made possible through the support of the American Association of University Women (AAUW), are applied to expenses the high school student-researchers incurred during new or continuing research in STEM and related disciplines this academic year.

Research projects selected include:

• Simplistic Manipulative Accelerated Airfoil Control (Cold Spring Harbor High School)
• Bacterial Growth in Different Types of Water (Queens High School for the Sciences)
• Effects of Gyro-Stabilization on Hand Stability and Dexterity (Roslyn High School)
• Using Zeolite Clinoptilolite to Reduce Methane Emissions from Food Waste (Norwich Technical High School)
• How Agricultural Runoff Affects the Oceans Biodiversity (Norwich Technical High School)
• Evaluating the impact of Carbon – Nitrogen Levels in Phragmites Australis Rhizomes of Restored and Invaded Wetlands (Brentwood High School)
• The Effects of Varying Nitrate Concentrations on Tritia obsoleta (Brentwood High School)
• Microplastic Consumption in Alpheus randalli (Bergen County Academies)
• Synthesis of Stable MXene and Filtration by GO-MXene Hybrid (Bergen County Academies)
• Creating a Cost-Effective Device for the Translation of ASL to English (Bethpage High School)
• Building an Arduino Powered Water Purity Sensor that can test pH, Turbidity, and Dissolved Oxygen (Bethpage High School)
• Investigating the Role of Sunlight and LEDs in Planarian Regeneration (Bethpage High School)
• Effects of Nitrogen Oxide and Particulate Matter on Respiratory Health (Uniondale High School)

January 2022

The 5th Annual MRGA 2022 program received 127 research project submissions from 20 high schools. The committee, assisted by a team of graduate and undergraduate students, reviewed the proposals and awarded 30 project proposals (or continuing projects) with grant awards. Voya Foundation funded this program.

• No. of students who applied: 176
• No. of project submissions: 127
• No. of high schools represented: 20
• States where high schools are located: NY, NJ, CT, MO
• What is the Effect of Dietary Carbohydrate Intake on Performance in Female Endurance Athletes?
• Biodegradation of Polystyrene by Bacteria Found in the Gut of Tenebrio Molitor Larvae (mealworm beetle)
• Developing a Hydroponic System with the Recycling of Greywater
• Combating Covid with an Electroceutical Plant-Based Textile
• Numeracy and the Communication of Medical Risk
• The Effect of External Factors on the Perception and Taste of Food
• Effect of Organic Fertilizers vs. Synthetic Fertilizers on Cyanobacteria
• Investigating Factors that Could Alter the Genetic Impact of APOE on Alzheimer’s Disease
• Effect of Ionic Liquids on Perovskite Solar Cell Stability
• The Impact of Eutrophication on the Ribbed Mussel ( Geukensia Demissa ) and Their Host Plant Spartina Alterniflora
• “The Crumb Rubber Conundrum: The Effects of Heavy Metal Leaching on Terrestrial Invertebrates”
• Cost-Effective Air Quality Monitoring Using Readily Available Programming Interfaces
• Smart Mask Respiratory Protection, Air Quality Monitoring, and Reporting System
• Effects of Plant Substances in Inhibiting Prominent Pathogenic Oral Bacteria
• RAMOSA3 Undergoes Liquid-Liquid Phase Separation to Modulate Inflorescence Development in Maize

Graduate and undergraduate student assistants:  Aissa Beaton, Wilber Parada (D.P.T.); Ajin Varghese, Dono Shodieva (Biology); Mary Sanchez (Biomedical Engineering)

January 2021

The Fourth Annual Mini-Research Grant Award program application had an impressive 82 students submitting 55 research projects from 19 New York metropolitan area high schools. The Mini-Research Grant Award program selection committee reviewed all applications and selected 29 projects across 18 schools to fund with generous support from the Voya Foundation.

High-Impact Ivy League Passion Project Examples

By Alex Yang

Graduate student at Southern Methodist University

7 minute read

The Ivy League is a prestigious group of schools with a great history and often appears on the college list for many high school seniors. If you’re hoping to get into an Ivy League school, however, competition is very high, and admission rates tend to be on the lower side. This means that there’s often extra effort that’s required to help make your application stand out and that’s definitely something that you can control. We believe that passion projects are a great way to show Ivy League schools your talent and potential, and also serve as great ways to develop your own skill set and set you up for success no matter where you go to school. In this article, we’ll cover why passion projects matter for Ivy League admissions and share some examples of Ivy League passion projects.

Do your own research through Polygence!

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

Why Passion Projects Matter for Ivy League Hopefuls

As we discussed in our article “ The Ivy League: How to get in (Legally) ,” college administrators and admissions officers like to see themes in a student’s resume. They like seeing that a student has taken a deep dive into a subject and put in time to develop skills in that area. It shows that the student has curiosity, discipline, focus, and ambition—all necessary for success in college and beyond. Think about it: when you consider Ivy League college students who’ve been successful and really made the most of their opportunities, you find that all these students have found some sort of passion or even multiple that they’re really excited about and spend a lot of time on. As a high school student, if you can identify your interests and demonstrate that you’re willing to do the same even before you get to college, that’s very impressive.

Passion projects can even help your application beyond just showcasing it on your resume . You can talk about it in detail when writing your personal essay and supplemental essays . And if the Ivy League school you’re applying to has alumni interviews, you can openly speak about your passion project with your interviewer. For more on Ivy League alumni check out our articles on how to ace the Princeton interview and how to ace the UPenn interview .

Beyond just the benefits of helping your Ivy League applications, a passion project allows you to discover what excites you and what doesn’t and teaches you how to learn about new fields and industries. It can also teach you the value of mentorship and how to work well with mentors . These are advantages that you can take with you in your life far beyond just college.

Ivy League Passion Project Examples from Polygence Alumni

Star formation project.

As a junior in high school, Polygence alumni Arul worked with his mentor Imad P to determine the rates at which stars are forming in a group of nearby galaxies. Arul used publicly available data about the wavelengths emitted by local galaxies and wrote Python code to calculate each galaxy’s flux (the brightness or intensity of its light). He concentrated on two types of light wavelengths that are good indicators of star formation activity: the H-alpha recombination band and the far ultraviolet (FUV) band. For more on the full details of Arul’s project, check out our student spotlight blog article on Arul’s star formation exploration .

Arul used his project to help get accepted into Princeton University by connecting his own research with similar ongoing research by Princeton professors in his “Why Princeton?” essay. He wrote about his Polygence experience and how he’d also like to contribute to the Princeton undergraduate research journal. This is a great example of how you can reference passion projects in your supplemental essays. 

When we asked Arul how his Polygence project shaped his freshman year at Princeton, Arul told us that there were “lots of transferable technical skills that I got to apply to my freshman year physics coursework.” His experience on his star formation project even influenced his decision to major in physics. He will continue his space research with a similar physics internship with Professor Susanne Staggs, this time focusing on dark energy and dark matter.

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Environmental and Biology Research Project

Polygence alumni Yardena Rubin is a current student at Columbia University studying sustainable development and ethics. Yardena has always been interested in environmental science, and she started out her Polygence passion project by doing some preliminary research into invasive animal species in South Florida with the help of her mentor Malia , an expert in invasive species. Yardena found that green iguanas that are native to South America are creating tons of environmental and economic damage in South Florida. Yardena wrote a research paper to share her findings and make a call to action to combat the effects of the green iguanas. She was also able to get her research paper published in the Journal of Research High School. You can read more about the full project story in this student spotlight article .

For Yardena, the passion project was perfect timing because she completed her research leading up to her senior year of high school. She was able to feature her research on her college application to Columbia and mentioned that the research project “was a really great tool to show I could step up and take leadership within my own community.” Beyond just helping with the college admissions process, Yardena’s project also helped her learn how to write a research paper and also how to properly use citations in her paper , both of which come in handy for college-level courses. 

If you’re interested in learning more about environmental impact, read our blog article to learn How Polygence Is Helping Students Tackle Climate Change . 

Explore at the cellular level

Interested in Biology? We'll match you with an expert mentor who will help you explore your next project.

Other Ivy League Passion Project Ideas

Artistic creativity.

Have you always been interested in painting, sketching, or other visual arts? Consider creating a portfolio of work to show your creativity and artistic talent. Your portfolio can all follow one theme or you can create individual pieces with different topics. Check out our article on Fine Art Passion Project Ideas for more inspiration. 

Launch a Small Business

Curious about entrepreneurship? Many Ivy League schools have programs to help support student entrepreneurs and schools like UPenn, Yale University, Harvard University, and Cornell are well-known for their programs in business management. There’s a lot you can learn from launching your own business from the ground up. You’ll gain experience with user research, product design, and marketing. Regardless of whether the business is successful or not, launching a business can show your ability to take initiative, something that Ivy League schools and all colleges around the country love to see. By launching a startup, you can also mention in supplemental essays how you’d love to use the school’s resources for entrepreneurship to either continue your current business or launch a new one! For more insights, you might want to check out Top Online Business Courses for High School Students . 

Medical Volunteering or Research

Participating in medical research or volunteer work can show your commitment to making an impact in your community and learning more about science. See if you can find local opportunities to volunteer at a hospital or intern at a research lab to learn more about the field of medicine. If you’d like to learn more about research opportunities, check out our blog on Top 10 Medical Summer Research Opportunities .

Writing Essays or Short Stories

We all know that college applications require a lot of essay writing, but what if, for your own passion project, you worked on an essay or story of your own about a topic you find interesting? What if you wrote a short fiction story to demonstrate your creativity? There are a ton of possibilities for writing projects, and they can include mediums like poetry. You’ll also have the opportunity to submit your works to various essay competitions and poetry contests , some of which are hosted by Ivy League schools like Princeton University. Writing is an essential skill for successful college students and demonstrating your writing ability beyond just the required admissions essays can be very impressive to Ivy League schools.

Coding Projects

Computer science is one of the most common majors for Ivy League students, especially at Brown, Cornell, and Harvard. Code can be used to produce all sorts of projects, from creating useful websites to transformative apps and algorithms. Doing a coding project can give you valuable technical practice with coding languages while also giving you the opportunity to make an impact. For example, Polygence alum Joseph worked with his computer science mentor Nathan to build a Duolingo-esque learning app that will instruct other students on the fundamentals of the Java programming language. A coding project is especially recommended for students who intend to major in computer science at an Ivy League school since it shows motivation and curiosity about the field.

Polygence Scholars Are Also Passionate About

Characteristics of great ivy league passion projects, they go beyond the surface level.

Great passion projects don’t just stop at the surface level of their topic, they explore topics in-depth. For example, if we consider Yardena’s project about invasive species, she could have very easily just done a comprehensive summary about invasive species and why they’re generally bad for the environment and economy. However, Yardena chose to specifically focus on green iguanas, their impact, and how policy can change the situation. When students go more in-depth on their topic, it gives the project more credibility because it shows that you thought about the topic at a deeper level and did more thorough research. Research projects and college assignments are rarely surface-level, so think of a high school passion project as great practice to do the same.

They’re Topics That The Student is Excited About

A huge part of a great Ivy League Passion Project is that the chosen topic is something the student actually cares about. It may seem obvious, but sometimes it’s easy to give into the pressure of researching something that you think others may find cool or impressive, but you don’t personally find interesting. In these situations, everything becomes more difficult. You’re not going to have the motivation to do extra research and analysis, to sharpen up your research paper, or ask your mentor to clarify concepts that you don’t fully understand. But if you’re working on a topic that excites you—whether it's connected to your academic interest or a meaningful project you want to pursue—you’ll be willing to put in the extra work to create an awesome research project. Your passion for the topic will come through in your work, and that will be truly impressive to admissions officers.

Related Ivy League Content

Interested in immersing yourself at an Ivy League school before applying? Read our article on Ivy League Summer Programs for High School Students , where you can take courses and work on projects on an Ivy League campus! 

If you want to explore more passion project ideas, check out our blog piece on Passion Project Ideas for High School Students .

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Our core curriculum, also known as the Research Spine, emphasizes learning research skills through hands-on lab experience, as well as ethics and research proposal writing fundamentals. The chemistry, chemical biology, and biology programs focus on technology applications in science in areas like drug screening, computational chemistry, computational biology, tumor models, gene editing and artificial intelligence.

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The Research Spine provides you with research exposure and experience from your first day through graduation. Not only will this equip you with the skills you need to be a deep and life-long learner, it also provides you with built-in leadership opportunities that expose you to multiple perspectives and fosters a culture of innovation.

The development of critical soft skills necessary for young scientists to succeed on the job are embedded into our projects and course work. Projects frequently involve teams of students from diverse disciplines who collaborate to solve problems – exactly as you will in real-world biomedical research, industrial and healthcare settings.

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At Stevens, research is built into the curriculum. The Research Spine gives our students a variety of opportunities to engage with faculty researchers and explore opportunities that meet their unique interests, whether it's as an individual or in a team. Learn about our students and their passions.

Undergraduate Research Experiences: Education as a Platform to Solve Real Problems

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Being active in Stevens’ Department of Chemistry and Chemical Biology helped undergraduate Austin Ruth ’23 M.S. ’24 turn his fascination with chemical biology into a promising future in pharmaceutical R&D.

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Synthetic biology to discover kratom natural product biosynthetic pathways for biased analgesic development

A synthetic biology approach to discover novel plant-derived analgesics. potentially leading to alternative solutions to address opioid crisis.

Prof. Sijin Li's Project Summary Opioid alternative analgesics that would kill pain potently without the respiratory side effect will be of specific importance in addressing the opioid crisis. The medicinal herb kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) produces natural products (mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine) that selectively activate analgesia only, which are promising “biased” opioid alternatives. Elucidating the kratom biosynthetic pathway composed of enzymes catalyzing sequential reactions toward the syntheses of mitragynine, 7-hydroxymitragynine, or other kratom products is important to the development of “biased” non-opioid analgesics. We propose to identify and reconstruct both the kratom biosynthetic pathways and the plant enzyme complexes organizing plant biosynthesis in yeast by integrating plant functional genomics analysis and synthetic biology. The research will provide new chemical and plant biology knowledge to a broader community, develop a post-translational level understanding of plant pathway regulation in yeast, and highlight the possibility of using synthetic biology to understand how nature achieves complicated natural product biosynthesis. This proposal will develop the conceptual framework to understand how nature organizes the specialized metabolism in plant toward high efficiency and complexity. The development of high-throughput protein-protein interaction method in yeast for plant complex identification will provide new methods and knowledge for plant pathway discovery and reconstruction. The methods and knowledge we develop toward these goals will also enable the structural elucidation, biological activity evaluation, and microbial production of biased opioid alternatives, leading to the development of next-generation painkillers to address the opioid crisis.

Project Narrative The project aims to elucidate and reconstruct the biosynthetic machinery of kratom natural products in yeast for novel non-opioid analgesic development. It will address the longstanding question in plant metabolism about the role plant enzyme complexes play in regulating complicated biosynthesis. This work will provide new methods to discover novel plant complexes and the pathways they organize and ultimately advance pharmaceutical compound biosynthesis for “biased” non-opioid analgesics as the next-generation painkillers.

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High schoolers investigate programmable plants

Forty-five high school students from across the country took part in the 2024 CURIE Academy, a Cornell Engineering program for high school students interested in pursuing undergraduate studies in... Read more about High schoolers investigate programmable plants

Fengqi You Honored with Dorothy and Fred Chau Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Research Project Supervision

Professor Fengqi You has been awarded the 2024 Dorothy and Fred Chau Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Research Project Supervision by the School of Applied and Engineering Physics at Cornell... Read more about Fengqi You Honored with Dorothy and Fred Chau Award for Excellence in Undergraduate Research Project Supervision

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Featured Posts

10 Business Project Ideas for High School Students

8 Business Extracurriculars for High School Students

How To Make Money as a PhD Student - 8 Great Ways to Get Started

The Summer Law Institute by Legal Outreach - Should You Apply?

With colleges going test-optional and test-blind, there’s a lot you can do to improve your chances and strengthen your profile while still in high school apart from your test scores. One way to do this is by conducting an independent business project. These projects can help bolster your resume and enhance applications for research programs and internships by showcasing your ability to apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios. Business projects help develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and entrepreneurial skills. They also provide tangible outcomes that stay on your profile as a mark of competence and initiative.

In today’s blog, we’ve listed ten business project ideas that you can consider undertaking to expand your horizons and gain valuable experience:

1. Conduct a market research study

What to do:  Identify a product or service of interest and design a market research study to assess consumer preferences and market viability. Begin by defining your target demographic and constructing a survey that includes a mix of quantitative and qualitative questions . Utilize digital tools like Google Forms  or SurveyMonkey  to distribute your survey online, and consider setting up interviews or focus groups for more in-depth data collection. Analyze the data using software like Excel to identify trends and consumer preferences that can inform business strategies.

Skill sets:  Analytical thinking, data collection, and interpretation skills.

Ideal if:  You have an interest in marketing, data analysis, or entrepreneurship.

Drawbacks:  Can be time-consuming and requires access to a target audience.

Tips:  Utilize online survey tools and social media to reach a broader audience; clearly define your research questions before you begin.

2. Develop a business plan

What to do:  Choose a business idea, then research and develop a detailed business plan. Start by conducting a market analysis to assess the demand for your product or service.  Outline your business structure, design a marketing strategy, and develop an operations plan that details the logistics of how your business will run. Prepare financial projections including an income statement, cash flow forecast, and a break-even analysis. Use business planning software like LivePlan   to structure your plan and ensure all critical elements are included.

Skill sets:  Strategic thinking, financial planning, and creative marketing.

Ideal if:  You’re an aspiring entrepreneur or are interested in learning about the startup ecosystem.

Drawbacks:  Requires a deep understanding of various business aspects and can be complex.

Tips:  Use business plan software or templates to guide your structure; seek feedback from business educators or mentors.

3. Run a social media marketing campaign

What to do:  Select a business or create a hypothetical product and plan a comprehensive social media marketing campaign. It’s even better if you can get your hands on a real brand’s social media back end, like a business run by your guardian(s) or a teacher or mentor ! Identify which platforms are most popular with your target market, such as Instagram for a younger audience or Facebook for an older demographic. Develop a content calendar, and create engaging posts that include images, videos, and hashtags. Use scheduling tools like Buffer   or Hootsuite   to maintain a consistent posting routine. Analyze engagement through platform analytics to adjust strategies and improve interaction rates.

Skill sets:  Digital marketing, content creation, data analysis.

Ideal if:  You are serious about making a career in marketing, advertising, or digital communications.

Drawbacks:  Success heavily depends on an understanding of platform algorithms and audience behavior. You also need to execute campaigns (which requires funds) to truly learn what strategies work and which fail.

Tips:  Keep up-to-date with trends on each platform; use free analytics tools to track your campaign’s performance.

4. Conduct a financial literacy workshop

What to do:  Develop a series of financial literacy workshops aimed at educating peers about personal finance management. Topics can cover things like budgeting basics, the importance of saving, how to use credit responsibly, and the fundamentals of investing. You’ll need to prepare interactive presentations and hands-on activities like budgeting exercises or simulations of investment scenarios. You’ll also have to promote the workshop through school channels and social media and consider inviting a financial expert to provide additional insights.

Skill sets:  Public speaking, educational content creation, financial knowledge.

Ideal if:  You have a solid foundation in finance and are equally passionate about finance and education.

Drawbacks:  Requires an extremely thorough understanding of financial concepts, as well as the ability to break complex terminology down and explain it simply to a layman's audience.

Tips:  Use interactive tools like games or simulations to make learning more engaging.

5. Setup your e-commerce store

What to do:  Establish an e-commerce store by selecting a niche product line you are passionate about. Research potential suppliers or decide on making your products if feasible. Set up an online store using a platform like Shopify, which provides customizable templates and integrated payment systems.  Develop a marketing strategy that includes SEO optimization, email marketing campaigns, and social media advertising.  While you don’t have  to have a real, physical product to sell, your learning will be significantly greater if you do. It’ll also teach you to manage customer orders, track inventory using the platform’s built-in tools, and understand how logistics and supply chains work.

Skill sets:  E-commerce management, digital marketing, customer service.

Ideal if:  You have a strong interest in retail, entrepreneurship, and online business, and want to test the waters with online sales.

Drawbacks:  Initial capital is required for buying inventory and setting up operations; managing logistics can be extremely challenging and is one of the hardest things to learn at a young age.

Tips:  Start small with a few products; utilize drop-shipping to minimize upfront costs.

6. Conduct a sustainability audit for a local business

What to do:  Approach a local business and offer to perform a sustainability audit. Assess their current operations with a focus on energy usage, waste management, and sourcing policies. Research sustainable practices relevant to their business type, such as switching to energy-efficient appliances, implementing a recycling program, or using local suppliers.  Prepare a report that outlines your findings and provides recommendations for improvements, including potential cost savings and environmental benefits.

Skill sets:  Environmental science, research, business analysis.

Ideal if:  You are looking to understand sustainability practices in business, their practicality, application, and implementation.

Drawbacks:  Requires knowledge of environmental practices and business operations. Also requires access to a local business that is willing and interested in sustainability operations.

Tips:  Partner with environmental organizations for guidance; focus on cost-effective solutions that can apply to even small businesses.

7. Create an investment portfolio

What to do:  Use a stock market simulation tool to create and manage a virtual investment portfolio. Begin by setting investment goals based on hypothetical scenarios like saving for college or starting a business. Research various investment options including stocks, bonds, and mutual funds. Allocate assets according to your risk tolerance and time horizon. Monitor the performance of your investments using the simulation tool’s analytics features, and make adjustments to your portfolio based on market conditions.

Skill sets:  Financial analysis, risk management, decision-making.

Ideal if:  You love finance, and economics, and want to understand how the stock market truly operates.

Drawbacks:  Has an extremely high learning curve if you’re unfamiliar with financial markets.

Tips:  Start with virtual trading platforms to practice without financial risk.

8. Conduct a business ethics case study

What to do:  Select a recent case involving ethical dilemmas in the business world. Research the background and the outcomes of the case.  Analyze the ethical issues involved, considering various stakeholders’ perspectives. Write a detailed report discussing the ethical, legal, and business implications of the case.  Consider presenting your findings to classmates or at a school conference to engage others in discussion about business ethics.

Skill sets:  Critical thinking, ethical reasoning, research.

Ideal if:  You have an interest in corporate law, ethics, or human resources.

Drawbacks:  Can be abstract and requires a nuanced understanding of ethical principles. There also may be a fair bit of legal research involved which can make for dry reading.

Tips:  Choose a relevant and timely issue; use real-world examples to ground your study.

9. Lead a customer service improvement project

What to do:  Identify a local business willing to collaborate with you to enhance their customer service. Start by gathering feedback from customers through surveys or direct interviews to identify areas for improvement. Analyze this data to develop actionable insights, such as streamlining the service process, enhancing staff training, or integrating new technologies for better service delivery. Implement the improvements and track changes in customer satisfaction.

Skill sets:  Analytical skills, customer relations, strategic planning.

Ideal if:  You’re interested in operational management and customer satisfaction.

Drawbacks:  Access to business and customer data might be restricted.

Tips:  Focus on businesses with which you or your family have a relationship to ease data access.

10. Create a nonprofit fundraising strategy

What to do:  Partner with a nonprofit organization to devise and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy. Start by understanding the organization's goals, budget, and previous fundraising efforts. Develop a mix of fundraising activities that could include online crowdfunding campaigns, charity events, and grant writing. Create promotional materials and utilize social media platforms to raise awareness and encourage donations. Evaluate the effectiveness of different strategies and make recommendations for future campaigns based on your results.

Skill sets:  Event planning, persuasive writing, strategic thinking.

Ideal if:  You want to understand nonprofit management, event planning, or how fundraising works for different organizations.

Drawbacks:  Fundraising can be quite challenging and results may vary widely. It’s also not a one-size-fits-all approach and requires custom solutions and a lot of trial and error.

Tips:  Leverage community events and social media to maximize outreach and impact; be clear about how funds will be used to encourage donations.

These business projects offer a range of experiences that cater to different interests and skill levels, providing valuable learning opportunities and a solid foundation for future career endeavors.

If you’re looking for an incubator program that helps you establish a developed startup in high school, consider the Young Founders Lab! 

The   Young Founders Lab   is a real-world start-up bootcamp founded and run by Harvard entrepreneurs. In this program, you will work towards building a revenue-generating start-up that addresses a real-world problem.   You will also have the opportunity to be mentored by established entrepreneurs and professionals from Google, Microsoft, and X. 

You can access the application link   here !

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Cryophyton of Lake Kalach, Omsk oblast

• Published: 26 February 2014
• Volume 7 , pages 45–51, ( 2014 )

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• O. P. Bazhenova 1 &
• L. V. Korzhova 1  

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The species composition and dynamics of cyanobacteria and algae inhabiting the ice of Lake Kalach (Omsk oblast) have been studied. High abundance and a low floristic similarity with phytoplankton have been discovered. Small-celled cyanobacteria and chlorococcales dominate in number of species and abundance. A new term, “cryophyton,” is proposed for photosynthetic organisms living in the ice.

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Bazhenova, O.P., Korzhova, L.V. Cryophyton of Lake Kalach, Omsk oblast. Contemp. Probl. Ecol. 7 , 45–51 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1134/S199542551401003X

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Received : 02 November 2012

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DOI : https://doi.org/10.1134/S199542551401003X

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Regents Professor Lawrence Que Jr. retires after 41 years at University of Minnesota

MINNEAPOLIS / ST. PAUL (8/13/2024) – Regents Professor Lawrence “Larry” Que Jr. retired from the Department of Chemistry on May 26th, 2024, after serving the University of Minnesota for more than four decades. Que’s tremendous impact in the field of bioinorganic chemistry earned him the title of Regents Professor in 2009 and election to the National Academy of Sciences in 2022. 

The early years

Born and raised in Manila, Philippines, Que’s chemistry career began in the undergraduate chemistry program at the Ateneo de Manila University in Quezon City, Philippines. He earned his bachelor’s degree 1969 before arriving at the University of Minnesota to continue his chemistry education in the PhD program, which he completed in 1973. During his PhD, Que was advised by Louis H. Pignolet. Throughout his doctoral studies, Que used NMR spectroscopy to research intramolecular rearrangement reactions of transition metal complexes. He went on to conduct postdoctoral research under Professor Richard H. Holm at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (1973-74) and under Professor Eckard Münck at the University of Minnesota (1975-77) which set the stage for his lifelong career in bioinorganic chemistry.

With his affinity for and expertise in iron chemistry firmly in place by 1977, Que started his independent career as an Assistant Professor of Chemistry at Cornell University. While at Cornell, Que utilized Resonance Raman spectroscopy to study dioxygenases; these enzymes would ultimately form the bedrock of Que’s research for the next 40 years. 

Return to Minnesota

In 1983, Que returned to the University of Minnesota, this time as a member of the faculty.  “Returning to Minnesota was the best decision I ever made for my career,” Que says. “I fell in love with this department during graduate school. I was very happy to have the opportunity to return, it’s been an honor to contribute to building our program for the last four decades.”

Described in more than 550 publications, Que’s research spanned the subfields of stereochemistry, catalysis, and crystallography. He established himself as an expert and innovator in bioinorganic chemistry, playing a pioneering role in understanding the function that nonheme iron centers play in dioxygen activation in biology. His work produced the first synthetic models for high-valent iron-oxo intermediates, which are crucial for understanding the electronic structures, spectroscopic properties, and reactivities of these units. Additionally, Que led efforts to create functional models for various iron oxygenases, including catechol dioxygenases, α-ketoglutarate-dependent oxygenases, and cis-dihydroxylating arene dioxygenases. These chemical tools aim to perform two specific types of chemical reactions that enable stereospecific alkane hydroxylation and highly enantioselective olefin cis-dihydroxylation. These advancements could lead to more environmentally friendly and sustainable alternatives to current heavy-metal oxidation catalysts. Que’s key dioxygen discoveries were published in ACS  Chemical Reviews in 2004, in an article titled  “Dioxygen Activation at Mononuclear Nonheme Iron Active Sites:  Enzymes, Models, and Intermediates ;” this paper would turn out to be the most cited work of his career. His prolific research portfolio garnered invitations to present more than 400 lectures around the world. 

Over the years, Que’s research group focused on the topics of iron, oxygen, and biocatalysis in the area of bioinorganic chemistry, The group’s primary effort, involving a combination of biochemical, synthetic inorganic, and spectroscopic approaches, was aimed at elucidating the oxygen activation mechanisms of nonheme iron enzymes, designing functional models for such enzymes, trapping and characterizing reaction intermediates, and developing bio-inspired oxidation catalysts for green chemistry applications. Que advised 55 graduate students and 80 postdoctoral researchers over the course of his career. Over 50 Que Group alumni have tenure-track or tenured faculty positions in colleges or universities.

Que’s critical dioxygen research earned him the title of  Regents Professor in 2009. A quote from the citation for the award reads “Undoubtedly, Professor Que is currently the top bioinorganic chemist in the world. In his chosen field, oxygen activation of iron-containing enzymes and biomimetic compounds, his group, in my estimation, is at least three years ahead of his closest competitors. Almost single-handedly he has developed the major fraction of the synthetic chemistry of iron in high-oxidation states. This chemistry is vital to our understanding of many processes in biochemistry, to the development of new drugs, and most importantly, to developing a green chemistry that can alleviate the problems caused by pollutants and pathogens that afflict human health." The Regents Professorship is the highest honor the University of Minnesota bestows on its faculty. The title recognizes faculty who have made exceptional contributions to the University through teaching, research, scholarship, or creative work, and contributions to the public good.

Beyond his research success, Que demonstrated significant commitment to service to the University across his career. He is credited with establishing the University of Minnesota as a world-renowned center of excellence in bioinorganic chemistry. He organized the International Conference on Oxygen Intermediates in Nonheme Metallobiochemistry (1996) and the Ninth International Conference on Biological Inorganic Chemistry (1999). From 1999 to 2002 – and again from 2008 - 2012 – he served as the inaugural PI on the National Institutes of Health  Chemistry-Biology Interface Training Grant that brings faculty and students from various departments together. He also led the effort to establish the University of Minnesota Center for Metals in Biocatalysis, which allowed faculty and students from multiple units to collaborate in exploring the roles of metals in biology.

Que was the first editor-in-chief of the Springer  Journal of Biological Inorganic Chemistry (JBIC)  and served the journal for 20 years .  JBIC – the official journal of the Society of Biological Inorganic Chemistry since 1996 – is a peer-reviewed journal promoting the field of biological inorganic chemistry internationally. The publication aims to provide insight into systems of metals in biology at biochemical, molecular, and cellular levels.

For his research, service, and mentorship, Que has been honored with many awards over the course of his career. These honors include the 3M/Alumni Distinguished Professorship (1999), the National Institutes of Health MERIT Award (2000), the UMN Distinguished Teaching Professorship (2000), the Royal Society of Chemistry Inorganic Reaction Mechanisms Award (2011), and the American Chemical Society Award in Inorganic Chemistry (2017). He was also elected a fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science in 2001, a fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry in 2008, and a fellow of the American Chemical Society in 2011. In 2022, Que was elected to the National Academy of Sciences. Membership in the NAS is one of the highest honors given to a scientist or engineer.

LQ Fest: 40 Years of Fun with Iron Chemistry at the University of Minnesota

In July 2023, the Department of Chemistry hosted LQ Fest: 40 Years of Fun with Iron Chemistry at the University of Minnesota in honor of Que. 19 of Que’s collaborators, mentees, and even his daughter, Emily Que – who is an Associate Professor of Chemistry at the University of Texas at Austin – presented lectures, stories, and memories related to Que’s research and career. When recalling the event he said “I’ve loved my job. I’ve loved the people that I’ve worked with. I spent the last 50 years of my life dedicated to chemistry, and I never looked back. The event was a wonderful opportunity to get together with many people that I’ve cared about to celebrate my career.” 

The next chapter

“Nothing changes, really. I’ve always thought about chemistry, and I’ll continue to think about chemistry all the time,” Que said. In this next chapter of life, Que is adopting a  come what may attitude. He says he is looking forward to spending more time with his grandchildren in Texas and embarking on new adventures with his wife. 

Memories and Notes from the Chemistry Faculty

"Larry is an extraordinary scientist who has made incredible discoveries in the field of bioinorganic chemistry that have changed the way we think about how important iron-containing enzymes work. His passion for research is unparalleled, and his infectious enthusiasm has made a difference in the lives of many students over his career. His leadership was critical in making UMN a respected centerpiece of high quality bioinorganic chemistry research and teaching, well-known across the globe. On a personal level, I am deeply grateful for his mentorship during my career at the University of Minnesota; his insights and advice made a major difference in my life! Thank you, Larry, and congratulations on your retirement!" – Professor Bill Tolman, Dean, College of Arts & Sciences, St. Thomas University

"The University of Minnesota Department of Chemistry has been lucky to count Prof. Larry Que among our faculty. His chemical creativity and passion have had a big impact on bioinorganic chemistry as a field, and his thoughtfulness as a colleague has had a major impact on our department community." – Professor Christy Haynes, Chemistry Department Head

"Larry has been a standout in the bioinorganic community, rising to the highest levels of academic achievement at the University of Minnesota as a Regent’s professor, and nationally, as a member of the National Academy of Sciences.  I have always appreciated his scholarly approach to studying catalysis at the fundamental level for connecting with biology.  When I joined the department in 2012, starting my lab’s research program in chemical biology, I always loved hearing from the outside community of what high regard they held for him as a giant in the field of iron-mediated (bio)catalysis.  I also benefited significantly from Larry’s effort for initiating our NIH T32 Chemistry and  Biology Interface training grant (CBITG), for which he served as the first director, and established a trajectory of continual funding for the next 25 years.  This grant has impacted the careers of well over 100 graduate students, and has been a true gem of the three departments of Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biophysics (BMBB) and Medicinal Chemistry.  Beyond being a true iron man in his field, one of Larry’s main legacies is a long track record of highly successful trainees, which was on full display at last year’s retirement party, Larry Que Fest. He’s leaving our department having made an indelible mark and will be deeply missed. " – Professor William C.K. Pomerantz

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