17 Research and Summer Programs in Massachusetts For High School Students

17 Research and Summer Programs in Massachusetts For High School Students

Research Opportunities for High School Students in Massachusetts

The top research programs in Massachusetts for high school students, selected based on prestige, location, and affordability. See research opportunities in other states here

Polygence Core is an online research program that connects motivated high school students with expert mentors from top universities. Founded by researchers from Harvard, MIT, and Stanford, Polygence helps you explore any topic you're passionate about through one-on-one mentoring over 3–6 months, ending with a project of your choice—like an academic research paper ready for publication, a prototype, or podcast.

Hosting Institution : Polygence

Format : Online

Cost : Starting at $2895

Application Deadline : May 26, 2025

Other Programs

Learn Academic Research skills and build a foundational understanding of cutting-edge subjects in Polygence Pods. Join a group of 6 students and meet weekly with a PhD-level mentor. The program culminates in a short research paper.

Hosting Institution : Polygence

Format : Online

Cost : Starting at $495

Application Deadline : Varies by program

Courses : Biology, Computer Science, Economics, Engineering, Humanities, Mathematics, Other

SSEP's research courses focus on active learning through collaboration with Smith faculty and undergraduates, emphasizing research questions, experiments, and critical thinking.

Harvard Summer School offers a rigorous seven-week program with courses like Neuroscience and Financial Decision Making, designed for highly motivated students.

The Northeastern University program provides hands-on research in fields like bioengineering and AI, along with career counseling and college exploration activities.

MIT's Lincoln Laboratory LLRISE offers hands-on radar system building, held at MIT and Lincoln Laboratory in Massachusetts.

The MIT Research Science Institute (RSI) is a highly competitive program at MIT for STEM students, with around 80 spots, culminating in a research conference.

Mathroots by MIT-PRIMES is a 14-day program for underrepresented or underserved students passionate about mathematics, focusing on research and competition math.

SEA offers marine research programs on Cape Cod and aboard the SSV Corwith Cramer, emphasizing experiential learning in oceanography.

MIT's Women in Engineering program is a 4-week immersive experience for female juniors and seniors, with a focus on electrical and mechanical engineering.

MITES Summer is a prestigious six-week program promoting diversity in STEM, with coursework, research, and college prep for rising seniors.

The MIT Beaver Works Summer Institute offers virtual project courses in aerospace and engineering, including space systems like Cubesats.

Additional MIT programs include intensive research experiences in STEM and humanities, with opportunities for project development and college preparation.

Finally, THINK is a mentorship program for students with a research proposal in early stages, organized by MIT undergraduates, focusing on project refinement and guidance.

Are there many Research Opportunities for High School Students in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts, home to top universities like MIT and Harvard, offers numerous research opportunities due to its strong educational and medical institutions, vibrant economy, and proximity to Boston and Cambridge.

What other research opportunities are available?

Click below to get matched with an expert mentor who can help take your project off the ground!

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