January 2025 STEM Opportunities

Published January 13 2025

Unlock Your Potential: Top Opportunities for High School Students in 2025

High school is a time for exploration and growth, and participating in specialized programs can pave the way for future success. Here are five incredible opportunities for high school students to dive into STEM, research, and innovation.

1. Carnegie Mellon University AI Scholars

Link: CMU AI Scholars

Description:
The AI Scholars (AIS) program, a CS Pathways initiative, is a fully funded, merit-based, four-week immersive experience on the CMU campus. Rising high school seniors will explore artificial intelligence alongside Carnegie Mellon’s top faculty, staff, and researchers—leaders in the AI field. All program costs are covered, ensuring accessibility for all participants.

Eligibility:

  • Must be 16 years old by June 21, 2025.
  • Open to students transitioning from 11th to 12th grade during summer 2025.

2. Brookhaven High School Research Program (HSRP)

Link: Brookhaven HSRP

Description:
The High School Research Program (HSRP) offers a competitive six-week opportunity for students passionate about STEM. Participants work with Brookhaven Laboratory staff on hands-on research addressing real-world challenges. The program culminates with an oral or poster presentation. Opportunities are available onsite or remotely.

Eligibility:

  • Must be at least 16 years old by the program start date.
  • Available Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM.
  • U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residency required.
  • Must have active health insurance.

Note: Transportation and housing are not provided, making this a commuter program.

3. Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Summer Student Program

Link: MSK Summer Program

Description:
This eight-week program offers high school juniors the chance to intern in biomedical or computational labs at the prestigious Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Students are paired with mentors who guide their technical skill development and oversee self-directed projects contributing to larger research goals. A $1,200 stipend is provided.

Eligibility:

  • Must live within 25 miles of MSK’s main campus in Manhattan (NY, NJ, or CT residents).
  • High school juniors with a 3.5 GPA or higher in science subjects.
  • Must be 14 years old or older by June 2025.
  • Eight-week commitment required.

4. Iowa Secondary Student Training Program (SSTP)

Link: Iowa SSTP

Description:
The SSTP offers a competitive research experience for 10th and 11th graders. Students conduct research at the University of Iowa under the guidance of world-class faculty mentors. Participants will complete a project, present their findings in a poster format, and explore diverse research fields.

Eligibility:

  • Open to 10th and 11th graders.

5. University of Florida Student Science Training Program (SSTP)

Link: UF SSTP

Description:
The UF SSTP is a fast-paced, rigorous program for academically talented students. Participants engage in 30 hours of research weekly under faculty mentors, attend daily lectures on cutting-edge topics, and participate in honors seminars. The program also fosters leadership, communication, and organizational skills through various activities. Florida high school students can earn dual enrollment credits.

Eligibility:

  • Must be entering senior year and at least 16 years old by the program’s start.