14 Biomedical Research Internships for High School Students
If you’re a high school student interested in biomedical research and looking to gain hands-on experience in the field, take a look at this list. We’ve curated a list of 14 biomedical research internships from across the country that offer valuable opportunities to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world experience.
Participating in an internship can enhance your college applications and future career prospects. These internships provide exposure to cutting-edge research, mentorship from leading professionals, and the chance to contribute to meaningful projects. Many of these opportunities are offered by prestigious universities and research institutions, with some even offering stipends. Whether you’re looking for a summer program or a school-year internship, these options are designed to help you develop the skills and knowledge required in the biomedical field.
Check out the list below to find the internship that best aligns with your interests and goals.
Application Deadline: Multiple deadlines throughout the year. The upcoming winter cohort deadline is November 24, 2024.
Location: Virtual
Cost: Starts at $2990 (financial aid available).
Dates: 8-week programs with multiple cohorts throughout the year, including winter, spring, summer, and fall.
Eligibility: Open to all high school students who can work for 5-15 hours/week for 8-12 weeks. These internships are also open to undergraduates and gap-year students!
Ladder Internships, a fairly selective program founded by Harvard alumni, pairs high school students with startups and nonprofits around the world for virtual internships. This internship program allows you to choose the field you wish to work in from a wide range of industries, including technology, health tech, healthcare, medicine, machine learning, AI, computer science, finance, environmental science, sustainability, business, marketing, media, journalism, and more.
As an intern, you will work on projects that contribute to the startup or nonprofit’s larger mission and present your work at the end of the program. This internship program includes one-on-one training in communication and time management, among other skills, and group training sessions with fellow interns. You will be paired with a manager at the startup and with a Ladder coach, who serves as a second mentor.
2. Genspace's Biorocket Internship
Application Deadline: January 2025 (Exact date TBD)
Location: Brooklyn, New York City, NY
Cost: No costs; stipend of $2,000 provided.
Program Dates: Spring Session: February - May | Summer Session: July - August
Eligibility: Students aged 16 and up from New York City public and charter high schools. Students who identify as historically underrepresented in the sciences are strongly encouraged to apply.
Genspace's Biorocket Research program is a 6-month intensive internship designed for New York City public high school students passionate about subjects related to biomedical science. This selective program invites a cohort of a dozen students to participate in weekly in-person sessions, where they engage in hands-on research projects under the guidance of scientific mentors. The program culminates in a summer research project that students present at the end of the internship.
In addition to lab work, participants enjoy behind-the-scenes lab tours, field trips, and the opportunity to connect with professionals in science, technology, and design. These experiences provide valuable insights into various career paths and offer career guidance from experienced scientists. The Biorocket Internship is an excellent opportunity for students to gain real-world experience, network with professionals, and explore their passion for science.
3. High School Scientific Training and Enrichment Program (HiSTEP)
Application Deadline: Typically by January or early February
Location: Bethesda, MD
Cost: None; a stipend of $2300 provided.
Program Dates: July - August
Eligibility:
- Open to high school juniors who are U.S. citizens or legal permanent residents, at least 17 years old, by mid-June.
- Applicants must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher (exceptions made for students with steadily improving grades).
- Students must attend a school where at least 30% of the population participates in the Federal Free/Reduced Lunch Program and live within 40 miles of the main NIH campus in the DMV area (Virginia, Maryland, or Washington, D.C.).
The purpose of the High School Scientific Training and Enrichment Program (HiSTEP) program is to offer high school students a prestigious opportunity to explore science, biomedical research, and science careers at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Given the NIH’s status as a respected and premier institution for biomedical research and policy not only within the United States but around the world, NIH provides participants with a robust and immersive experience, including advanced research opportunities and one-on-one mentorship.
HiSTEP goes beyond research by offering workshops on resume building, interviewing skills, and developing professional relationships, equipping students with the tools needed for academic and career success. This program is highly regarded and provides an invaluable stepping stone for students considering careers in biomedical fields.
4. Project Success by Harvard Medical School
Application Deadline: 2025 deadline TBD
Location: Cambridge/Boston, MA
Cost: Stipend provided (exact amount unspecified)
Program Dates: July - August
Eligibility: Students must attend high school in either Boston or Cambridge and have completed their junior or senior year of high school, being at least 16 years old by early July when the program starts. A 2.70 GPA is required as far as completion of these courses: biology, algebra, and chemistry.
Project Success is a paid summer research program hosted by Harvard Medical School, specifically designed for high school students from underrepresented backgrounds in biomedical careers. Over 6 weeks, participants engage in cutting-edge research projects, receive mentorship from leading scientists and physicians, and attend seminars to develop their skills in biomedical research.
In addition to research, students gain practical experience in writing and speaking, and computer training — all while building a strong foundation for future academic and professional success. One of the standout features of Project Success is the direct guidance from Harvard-affiliated mentors, providing students with unique insights and support.
After successful completion of the program, high school participants becomeeligible for “Project Success for College Students,” a paid, ten-week summer internship program available exclusively to alumni of the high school program. This offers a continued pathway for students to further their research experience at one of the world’s leading medical institutions.
5. Siemens Competition in Math, Science and Technology
Application Deadline: TBA
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varying cash prizes for semifinalists and regional winners with a $100,000 grand prize
Program dates: This information is not available at the moment.
Eligibility: All high school students who are citizens/ permanent residents of the United States
Offered by The Siemens Foundation, an organization working to advance health equity initiatives, this competition invites students to submit and present projects in a scientific research field. It is the nation’s premier science research competition for high school students and encourages intensive research. Scientific importance, field knowledge, comprehensiveness, and quality of literature review are all important criteria used to evaluate student submissions.
This is a great opportunity to strengthen one’s ability to conduct research and synthesize biomedical information, which are important skills in the medical field. Past submissions in the contest have included research topics in bioengineering and other biomedical research.
6. City of Hope Eugene and Ruth Roberts Summer Student Academy
Application Deadline: Applications typically close in March.
Location: City of Hope Medical Center, Duarte, CA
Cost: $4,000 stipend provided
Program Dates: June - August
Eligibility:
- At least 16 years old before the internship begins.
- A high school student entering your senior year.
- A US citizen or permanent resident.
- Have completed coursework in biology and chemistry
- Available for the full ten-week program.
Established in 1960 by a cohort of physician-scientists, The City of Hope Eugene and Ruth Roberts Summer Student Academy is a ten-week program that provides high school students with an immersive research experience alongside undergraduate students. Participants engage in research projects tailored to their interests, guided by world-renowned physicians and scientists at the City of Hope Medical Center. This program is designed to offer students a deep dive into various biomedical fields, such as DNA sequencing, stem cell research, and neurological pathways.
In addition to conducting research, students attend weekly seminars where they present their findings and receive feedback, honing their scientific communication skills. This prestigious program is an excellent preparation for those considering advanced studies in biomedical sciences or related fields. The experience gained is invaluable for students planning to apply to graduate schools in the future. You can read more about it in our deep dive here.
7. Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Sciences (JHIBS)
Application Deadline: March 1, 2025
Location: Virtual or Baltimore, Maryland
Cost: Stipend provided for both the in-person and virtual internship participants
Program Dates: In-person: 8 weeks (June - August) | Virtual: 5 weeks (July August)
Eligibility: All juniors and seniors attending high school in the United States can participate in the program. However, those living in Baltimore City and the surrounding metro area, who have a strong passion and interest in science and medicine, are from underrepresented groups, and have an academically strong background are eligible for the in-person program.
The JHIBS internship program is a biomedical research internship with a specific focus on offering opportunities for high school students interested in a career in neurological and behavior-related sciences, particularly those from backgrounds considered underrepresented in STEM-M fields. Accepted participants will devote a summer to researching new questions in the field, under the guidance of esteemed Johns Hopkins faculty. JHIBS participants complete projects, attend seminars, discussions, and receive frequent personal and professional development.
Students can participate in the program in one of two ways, either virtually or in person. The in-person internship for students in the Baltimore area spans eight weeks and includes visits to the Johns Hopkins Department of Neurology on the East Baltimore campus. The virtual program is shorter, five weeks, but still includes thorough laboratory training and research skills. At the end of the summer, all students will present their findings in an oral or poster presentation. Previous intern research projects can be found here.
Application Deadline: Mid-February
Location: Ithaca, NY
Cost: $1,900 tuition fee; covering housing, meals, and research supplies; scholarships are available.
Program Dates: July 14-20, 2024
Eligibility:
- Open to female-identifying high school students who are rising juniors or seniors with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
- Applicants should have completed or plan to take advanced courses in math, science, and STEM-related fields, including AP Calculus, AP Physics, and AP Chemistry.
- Students must also meet criteria related to their experiences or commitment to addressing barriers faced by women in STEM.
Hosted by Cornell University, the CURIE Academy is a 1-week residential program designed to support female high school students who are passionate about math and science. This intensive program brings together a cohort of roughly 50 rising high school juniors and seniors who live and learn on Cornell’s campus while engaging in hands-on research projects. Under the guidance of Cornell students and faculty. Participants complete and present a research project after participating in nine field sessions.
The program’s primary goal is to encourage young women to pursue careers in engineering and STEM fields, offering them a glimpse into both academic and industry pathways. The program also emphasizes leadership development, helping students build a strong foundation for future success. This program aims to expand opportunities and address address the underrepresentation of women in STEM and empower the next generation of female engineers and scientists.
9. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program
Application Deadline: February 2025
Location: Stanford University, Stanford, CA
Costs: $500-$2,500 stipend provided
Program Dates: Variable depending on the specific internship program you choose
Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors at least 16 years of age.
The Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR), offered by Stanford University, is an 8-week residential internship on campus. In the program, participants work alongside experienced mentors in one of eight research disciplines, including cancer biology, immunology, and biomedical engineering. Throughout the program, students engage in hands-on research, attend lectures, build prototypes, and present their findings.
SIMR provides a stimulating environment for students to deepen their understanding of biomedical science while gaining valuable research experience. The program also offers a shorter boot camp option for students looking for a more concentrated experience.
10. Fred Hutch Summer High School Internship Program (SHIP)
Application Deadline: March 31, 2024
Location: Fred Hutch Cancer Center, Seattle, WA
Cost: Stipend provided
Program Dates: June 24 - August 16, 2024
Eligibility: Rising high school seniors from underrepresented backgrounds in the sciences.
The Fred Hutch Summer High School Internship Program (SHIP) is an 8-week, full-time, paid internship for rising high school seniors. Hosted at the renowned Fred Hutch Cancer Center in Seattle, this highly competitive program offers students hands-on experience in cutting-edge research.
Participants work closely with leading researchers, gaining practical skills and insights into various aspects of biomedical science. In addition to research, interns attend professional development seminars and workshops focused on college and career preparation. Social activities and networking opportunities with peers who share similar interests further enrich the experience. The program culminates in a symposium where students present their research to the Fred Hutch community, showcasing their achievements.
11. Werner H. Kirsten (WHK) Student Intern Program
Application Deadline: January
Location: Bethesda, MA
Costs: No cost, but a stipend is provided.
Program Dates:
- Summer Internship: June 17 - August 9, 2024
- School Year Internship: First official day of participant’s school year - May 31, 2025
Eligibility: High school seniors who will be at least 17 years old by the start of June. Minimum unweighted GPA of 3.0 is required.
The Werner H. Kirsten (WHK) Student Intern Program offers high school seniors a unique opportunity to engage in biomedical research at the National Cancer Institute. This year-long internship includes an intensive eight-week summer component where interns commit to 40 hours per week, followed by volunteer research during the academic year. The program is designed to provide students with hands-on laboratory experience, covering a wide range of research areas such as molecular cloning, DNA sequencing, and other advanced biomedical techniques.
Participants receive training in essential lab skills and have the opportunity to contribute to ongoing research projects under the guidance of experienced scientists. he skills and knowledge gained through this program can be used for high school credits, making it a valuable experience for students aiming to strengthen their academic records while exploring careers in biomedical science.
Application Deadline: Applications typically due in November
Location: Stanford University, Stanford, CA
Cost: Unpaid
Program Dates: June - August
Eligibility: High school students at least 16 years of age
The Stanford STaRS (Science, Technology, and Reconstructive Surgery) Internship is an intensive program designed for high school students interested in biotechnology and biomedical innovation, with a particular focus on reconstructive surgery. This highly selective internship provides participants with hands-on experience in cutting-edge research and the opportunity to work closely with mentors who are leading surgeons and researchers in the field.
The STaRS program aims to enhance research opportunities for students from underrepresented backgrounds in the biomedical sciences, including low-income, under-resourced, first-generation, and minority students. It is highly selective, choosing only about twenty participants every year. Beyond the opportunity to enhance one’s research skills, you will also learn how to use important software like CT Analyzer, Avizo, Drishti, and 3-D modeling.
13. University of Arizona KEYS Research Internship
Application Deadline: Deadline TBD, but applications will open in the fall of 2024
Location: University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ
Costs: No cost, though financial aid is available for meals/transportation.
Program Dates: June 3 - July 19, 2024
Eligibility: High school students at least 16 years of age. Must be US citizens/legal residents who are also residents of Arizona for at least one year
The University of Arizona's KEYS Research Internship is a premier 6-week summer program designed for high school students eager to explore the biomedical sciences. This program begins with a week-long training focused on lab safety, data science, biosciences, and science literacy. Following this foundational training, students spend the remainder of the internship working alongside lab staff and faculty from the University of Arizona in a dedicated laboratory.
Participants engage in meaningful research projects and have the opportunity to present their findings at a research showcase, where they practice communicating scientific results to a broad audience. The KEYS Research Internship is highly regarded, especially in the southwestern United States, and offers students a significant opportunity to build skills that are crucial for future academic and professional success in the sciences.
13. Veritas AI Internship
Application Deadline: October 20, 2024
Location: Virtual
Cost: $2,490 (some financial aid is available)
Program Dates: The start date for the upcoming cohort is November 11, 2024.
Eligibility: Open to high school students who have prior experience with AI/ML or have completed a Veritas AI program.
The AI Internship Program by Veritas AI is founded and run by Harvard graduate students. Through the 8-week internship, students have the opportunity to work with VC-backed startups on real-world AI/ML projects. Students work directly with mentors from Harvard, Wharton, Google, Microsoft, McKinsey & Company, and more.
This program is a great opportunity for students who have prior experience with AI/ML and are looking to gain real-world exposure to a career in the field. Students get a chance to network with industry professionals, work closely with company leadership, and receive a letter of completion from the company at the end of the internship. You can learn more about the program here and apply here.
Looking for an immersive internship experience?
Check out Ladder Internships!
Ladder Internships is a selective, virtual internship program that connects students with startups and nonprofits from industries around the world! As part of the internship, you will work on real-world projects that are important to the startup and present your work at the end of the internship. You will also be mentored by their manager from the startup as well as a Ladder Coach. Apply now!
Stephen is one of the founders of Ladder Internships and a Harvard College graduate.