[High School 🎓] • [Intelligence 🧠] • [Internships 💼] • [Nurture 🌱] • [Insights 📊]

Exploring Biology Beyond the Classroom

For gifted and motivated high school students, summer isn’t just a break—it’s a chance to advance. Biology summer internships provide hands-on research experience, real-world lab skills, and early exposure to careers in science, medicine, and biotechnology.

These programs help students:

• Develop laboratory techniques and professional communication skills
• Explore careers in biology, medicine, biotechnology, and beyond
• Build a college-ready resume that stands out to colleges and future employers

Many of the opportunities below are highly competitive, hosted by prestigious institutions like Stanford, Harvard, and the NIH. Others provide valuable mentorship and research experiences tailored to ambitious students ready to grow.

Whether you're passionate about genetics, marine biology, neuroscience, or biomedical engineering, there's a program on this list for you.

1. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)

One of the most prestigious biomedical summer programs for high school students, SIMR offers participants the chance to work alongside world-class scientists in fields like stem cell research, neurobiology, genetics, and bioengineering. Students present their research at a formal symposium at the end of the program.

The Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR) offers gifted and motivated high school students a rare opportunity to engage in world-class biomedical research. Over eight intensive weeks, participants join active Stanford research teams and contribute to cutting-edge projects in fields like stem cell biology, bioengineering, neurobiology, genetics, and immunology.

Students gain hands-on experience in professional lab environments, learning essential skills such as experimental design, data collection, analysis, and scientific presentation. Alongside daily lab work, participants attend seminars led by Stanford faculty and research scientists, deepening their understanding of current medical challenges and innovations. The program culminates in a formal poster symposium where students present their independent research projects to peers, faculty, and family, providing a valuable milestone for college applications and future scientific careers.

With its blend of advanced research exposure, close mentorship, and professional development, SIMR offers an unforgettable summer experience that transforms curiosity into real-world scientific achievement.

Quick Facts:

• Location: Stanford University, Stanford, CA
• Cost/Stipend: No cost. Stipend of $500–$1,500.
• Application Deadline: February 22
• Program Dates: June 9 – July 31
• Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors aged 16+ with U.S. citizenship or permanent residency.

2. National Institutes of Health (NIH) Summer Internship Program (SIP)

The NIH Summer Internship Program (SIP) offers ambitious high school students an extraordinary opportunity to conduct biomedical research at one of the world’s premier health organizations. Students join research teams across NIH campuses, collaborating on cutting-edge projects in fields like molecular biology, neuroscience, immunology, public health, and bioinformatics.

Throughout the summer, participants receive hands-on training in laboratory methods, data analysis, and experimental design while learning to think critically like real scientists. Interns work under the mentorship of NIH investigators, attend lectures by leading researchers, and may have opportunities to participate in poster sessions or scientific presentations. With its blend of practical lab experience and mentorship from top professionals, the NIH SIP empowers students to build real-world scientific skills and explore future careers in medicine, healthcare, and research.

Quick Facts:

• Location: NIH campuses nationwide (Bethesda, MD is the largest site)
• Cost/Stipend: No cost. Stipend provided (amount varies).
• Application Deadline: February 16
• Program Dates: June – August
• Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors aged 17+ by June 15; U.S. citizens or permanent residents.

3. The Broad Summer Scholars Program

The Broad Summer Scholars Program invites high school students with a passion for science and medicine to experience six transformative weeks of biomedical research at the renowned Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard. Scholars are paired with professional scientists and contribute to real-world projects in fields such as genomics, chemical biology, and computational biology.

Participants gain practical lab experience, develop critical thinking skills, and attend seminars on cutting-edge scientific advances. Students also receive guidance on science communication and college preparation through career panels and networking events. The program culminates in a final symposium where students present their research findings to peers, mentors, and Broad scientists. Designed to inspire the next generation of scientific innovators, Broad Summer Scholars offers gifted students a chance to develop technical skills, explore academic pathways, and envision careers at the forefront of biomedicine.

Quick Facts:

• Location: Broad Institute, Cambridge, MA
• Cost/Stipend: No cost. $3,600 stipend.
• Application Deadline: January 22
• Program Dates: June 30 – August 8
• Eligibility: Rising seniors in Massachusetts.

4. Summer Student Program at the Jackson Laboratory

The Summer Student Program at the Jackson Laboratory (JAX) offers high school seniors a deep dive into genetics, genomics, and biomedical research. Selected students work alongside leading scientists on independent research projects exploring areas such as cancer genetics, immunology, and computational biology.

Interns gain firsthand experience designing experiments, analyzing biological data, and presenting scientific findings. Daily lab activities are supplemented by educational seminars and workshops on research ethics, data analysis, and professional development. The program culminates in a formal symposium where students present their projects to peers and researchers. With full support for housing, travel, and meals, JAX offers an unparalleled opportunity for gifted students to build laboratory skills, strengthen scientific communication abilities, and experience the rigor and excitement of academic research.

Quick Facts:

• Location: Bar Harbor, ME & Farmington, CT
• Cost/Stipend: No cost. $6,500 stipend.
• Application Deadline: January 27
• Program Dates: May 31 – August 8
• Eligibility: High school seniors (must be 18 by program start).

5. Harvard Medical School’s Project Success

Project Success at Harvard Medical School offers high school juniors and seniors from underrepresented backgrounds the opportunity to explore biomedical science through hands-on summer research. Students work within Harvard-affiliated labs, contributing to projects in fields such as molecular biology, genetics, immunology, and neuroscience.

Beyond lab work, participants receive training in data analysis, scientific writing, and professional communication. They also attend hospital tours, biotech site visits, and seminars led by leading Harvard scientists. The program culminates in a final presentation, where students showcase their research findings to mentors and peers. Project Success not only builds technical and professional skills but also provides a supportive environment that empowers students to envision and pursue careers in science, medicine, and health care innovation.

Quick Facts:

• Location: Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA
• Cost/Stipend: Free, stipend provided.
• Application Deadline: February 3
• Program Dates: June 30 – August 15
• Eligibility: Boston/Cambridge juniors/seniors with 2.7+ GPA.

6. Houston Methodist’s Summer Internship Program

The Houston Methodist Summer Internship Program offers high school and undergraduate students a unique opportunity to work on translational research projects in one of the nation’s leading medical centers. Interns are paired with faculty mentors and assigned to active research labs working in fields such as cancer biology, regenerative medicine, molecular imaging, and clinical research.

Throughout the ten-week program, students learn laboratory techniques, develop research proposals, attend career development seminars, and participate in weekly lectures featuring physician-researchers and industry experts. The experience concludes with a poster session where interns present their findings to Houston Methodist researchers and peers. Offering a combination of real-world lab exposure, professional mentorship, and career exploration, Houston Methodist provides a meaningful summer experience for students passionate about biology, medicine, and innovation.

Quick Facts:

• Location: Houston, TX
• Cost/Stipend: Free. Stipend for undergraduates ($3,000–$6,000); high schooler stipend varies.
• Application Deadline: January 31
• Program Dates: May 27 – August 1
• Eligibility: High school juniors and seniors aged 16+.

7. Biorocket Research Internship Program at Genspace

The Biorocket Research Internship Program at Genspace gives high school students an exciting opportunity to explore biotechnology, genetic engineering, and bioinformatics through authentic research experiences. Interns conduct hands-on experiments in a community biology lab, using advanced technologies to investigate real-world scientific questions.

Throughout the six-month program, participants receive extensive mentorship from professional scientists, strengthen their laboratory skills, and develop projects that explore topics like DNA sequencing, microbiome analysis, and environmental biotechnology. Interns also participate in field trips and workshops designed to expand their scientific communication and career readiness. With a focus on innovation, collaboration, and exploration, Biorocket helps young scientists gain both technical expertise and professional confidence in the growing field of biotechnology.

Quick Facts:

• Location: Genspace, Brooklyn, NY
• Cost/Stipend: No cost. $2,000 stipend.
• Application Deadline: January 8
• Program Dates: June 30 – August 15
• Eligibility: NYC public/charter school students aged 16+.

8. ResearcHStart Program (UChicago Medicine)

The ResearcHStart Program offers rising high school seniors the chance to immerse themselves in cancer research at some of Chicago’s most prestigious medical institutions. Students are paired with mentors and work on projects involving cancer biology, immunotherapy, bioinformatics, and genomics.

Interns engage in experimental design, laboratory techniques, and data analysis while developing critical scientific reasoning skills. Throughout the eight-week program, students also attend professional development workshops, career panels, and scientific lectures. The experience concludes with a final presentation session where participants showcase their research to peers, faculty, and families. ResearcHStart equips students with real-world scientific training and provides a strong foundation for future careers in biomedical science and medicine.

Quick Facts:

• Location: Chicago, IL
• Cost/Stipend: No cost. $3,000 stipend.
• Application Deadline: January 20
• Program Dates: June – August (8 weeks)
• Eligibility: Juniors/seniors aged 16+.

9. Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience Summer Internship

The Max Planck Florida Institute for Neuroscience (MPFI) offers high school students an immersive summer research experience focused on understanding brain structure and function. Interns work side-by-side with leading neuroscientists, gaining hands-on experience in molecular biology, microscopy, genetic engineering, and data analysis.

Students contribute to cutting-edge projects exploring neural circuits, brain imaging techniques, and cognitive neuroscience. Alongside daily lab activities, participants attend workshops on scientific ethics, research methodologies, and career pathways in neuroscience. The program concludes with the submission of a scientific abstract summarizing each intern’s project. With its highly selective nature and personalized mentorship, MPFI provides a unique opportunity for young scientists to engage deeply with neuroscience research and prepare for future academic and professional success.

Quick Facts:

• Location: Jupiter, FL
• Cost/Stipend: No cost. $13/hour stipend.
• Application Deadline: March 4
• Program Dates: June 23 – August 1
• Eligibility: Juniors/seniors in Palm Beach or Martin County.

10. Ladder Internship Program

The Ladder Internship Program offers motivated high school students a flexible, remote opportunity to work on real-world projects across high-growth startups, including those in health tech, AI/ML, and biotechnology. Interns are matched with companies based on their interests and skill sets and complete projects under the mentorship of experienced startup founders and Ladder career coaches.

Throughout the 8–12 week internship, students develop technical, research, marketing, or business skills depending on their assignment. They also attend virtual professional development workshops and work collaboratively with their teams. Interns present their final projects to company leaders, gaining experience in professional communication and portfolio development. With its focus on adaptability, mentorship, and skill-building, Ladder provides an entrepreneurial pathway for ambitious students to gain hands-on work experience from anywhere in the world.

Quick Facts:

• Location: Remote
• Cost/Stipend: Starts at $2,490 (financial aid available)
• Application Deadline: Rolling
• Program Dates: 8–12 weeks
• Eligibility: High school, gap year, undergraduate students.

11. The Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Science Program (JHIBS)

The Johns Hopkins Internship in Brain Science Program (JHIBS) introduces high school students to neuroscience research through a virtual, five-week summer experience. Designed for students from underrepresented communities, JHIBS provides mentorship, hands-on project work, and exposure to the latest brain science research happening at Johns Hopkins University.

Interns work closely with researchers on independent projects involving cognitive neuroscience, neuroimaging, and neurodegenerative diseases. In addition to daily research activities, students participate in professional development workshops, attend lectures by leading scientists, and engage in peer collaboration. The program culminates in a final presentation where students showcase their findings through a poster or oral presentation. JHIBS offers a valuable opportunity for motivated students to gain technical skills, explore neuroscience careers, and prepare for future academic success in science and medicine.

Quick Facts:

• Location: Johns Hopkins, Baltimore/Virtual
• Cost/Stipend: Fully funded. Stipend or hourly wage.
• Application Deadline: March 1
• Program Dates: June – August
• Eligibility: U.S. high school students.

12. Massachusetts General Hospital’s Youth Neurology Education and Research Program

The Youth Neurology Education and Research Program at Massachusetts General Hospital offers high school students an immersive introduction to neuroscience, clinical research, and academic medicine. Students participate in research projects, attend boot camps in lab skills, and receive close mentorship from neurologists, neuroscientists, and undergraduate mentors.

Throughout the six-week experience, students conduct experiments, learn clinical observation techniques, and explore topics like neurodegenerative diseases, epilepsy, and brain imaging. Weekly seminars and lab tours enrich the program, exposing students to real-world medical research environments. The program concludes with a research symposium where students present their work to faculty and families. With its emphasis on mentorship, skill development, and community-building, Youth Neurology empowers young scholars to explore careers in neuroscience, medicine, and scientific research.

Quick Facts:

• Location: Boston, MA
• Cost/Stipend: No cost. Stipend provided.
• Application Deadline: January 31
• Program Dates: June 30 – August 8
• Eligibility: MA juniors/rising seniors or recent graduates.

13. University of Michigan Aspirnaut High School Summer Research Internship

The University of Michigan Aspirnaut High School Summer Research Internship offers ambitious students the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge life science research at one of the top public universities in the world. Over six weeks, participants join active laboratory teams working on biomedical research projects, gaining valuable hands-on experience in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication.

Beyond lab work, interns receive personalized mentorship from faculty, access to college preparation workshops, and ACT/SAT test preparation resources. Students also experience campus life, helping them build confidence for future university success. The program culminates in a final research symposium where participants present their findings to peers and mentors. With its combination of academic rigor, professional development, and mentorship, the Aspirnaut Program offers an exceptional launchpad for students passionate about biology, medicine, and scientific discovery.

Quick Facts:

• Location: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
• Cost/Stipend: No cost. Stipend provided (amount varies).
• Application Deadline: Typically February (official 2025 deadline TBA)
• Program Dates: June 16 – July 25, 2025
• Eligibility: High school students aged 16+ with a strong interest in science or medicine.

14. Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program

The Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program connects high school students with fisheries science professionals for a paid summer internship focused on aquatic science and conservation. Sponsored by the American Fisheries Society, the program emphasizes mentorship and hands-on fieldwork experiences.

As Hutton Scholars, students participate in research activities such as electrofishing, habitat restoration, species monitoring, and water quality testing. In addition to technical skills, students receive career guidance from experienced scientists and learn about environmental stewardship. The program includes an all-expenses-paid trip to the Hutton Scholars Summit, where students connect with peers and fisheries experts. With its emphasis on real-world learning and professional mentorship, Hutton offers a unique pathway for students passionate about biology, ecology, and environmental science.

Quick Facts:

• Location: Nationwide (local placement)
• Cost/Stipend: Free. $3,000 stipend + trip to Arkansas summit.
• Application Deadline: January 19
• Program Dates: June – August
• Eligibility: Students aged 16+ in US, Canada, Puerto Rico, or Mexico.

15. Scripps Research High School Student Research Education Program

The Scripps Research High School Student Research Education Program provides gifted students with the opportunity to work alongside leading scientists at one of the world’s premier biomedical research institutions. Interns assist in ongoing research projects in fields such as molecular biology, immunology, bioinformatics, and neuroscience.

Participants gain hands-on lab experience using cutting-edge technologies, attend seminars on scientific careers, and receive mentorship on experimental design, data analysis, and science communication. Over the summer, students develop technical expertise and professional skills critical for success in STEM fields. The program culminates with an end-of-summer research symposium where interns present their findings. With its emphasis on rigorous scientific training and mentorship, Scripps offers an exceptional launchpad for students exploring futures in biomedical research.

Quick Facts:

• Location: La Jolla, CA
• Cost/Stipend: No cost. Stipend provided.
• Application Deadline: February 15
• Program Dates: June – August
• Eligibility: Rising juniors and seniors.

From Curiosity to Career: The Power of a Summer Well-Spent

For gifted and talented students, these summer internships are not just about building a resume; they are about building a life of curiosity, discovery, and impact.

Through real-world experience, students bridge the gap between what they learn in the classroom and what they can achieve in the lab, the field, or the operating room. They gain confidence, technical skills, and a vision for how their talents can make a difference.

At GiftedTalented.com, we believe that early exposure to authentic, hands-on experiences fuels both academic excellence and personal growth. By participating in summer research internships, students not only accelerate their college and career trajectories, they discover who they are and what they might become.

Start small. Dream big. Change the world—one summer at a time.