Research Opportunities for High School Students
There are many research opportunities for high school students to explore at Rutgers. Here are few places to start.
Find Out What It Means to be at a Top Research University
Rutgers–New Brunswick is a member of the Association of American Universities and the Big Ten Academic Alliance, networks that cultivate knowledge-sharing and access to research resources.
Research University
opportunities
for high school students
Reasons to Explore Rutgers Research as a High School Student
- Experience what it's like to attend a leading research university
- Explore potential interests and majors
- Jumpstart your college education
- Learn from top-notch faculty
- Work in a lab setting
- Gain a competitive advantage for college admission
- Earn Rutgers–New Brunswick college credit
Waksman Student Scholars Program
The Waksman Student Scholars Program (WSSP) provides opportunities for high school students and their teachers to conduct an authentic research project in molecular biology and bioinformatics and publish their findings. This is a year-long program that begins with summer institutes for teachers and one or two of their students. It continues back at each high school during the academic year, at which time more students can become involved in the research project, working together with teachers and research scientists. In doing so, students gain a deeper understanding of how science operates and are encouraged to continue their education and careers in a science discipline.
Pre-College Programs
Pre-college programs enhance college awareness, provide extracurricular enrichment, and increase the academic preparedness of students currently attending elementary, middle, and high school (grades K-12).
Summer Scholars Program
If you are an ambitious and high-achieving high school junior (or younger), you may apply to take up to two introductory-level college courses at Rutgers–New Brunswick this summer! Learn more about the Summer Scholars Program.
Summer Programs at Robert Wood Johnson Medical School
Both the Mini Medical School for High School Students: Achieving Excellence in the Sciences and The Summer Science Scholars Academy are offered through Summer Programs at RWJMS.
Young Scholars Program in Discrete Mathematics
The Rutgers Young Scholars Program in Discrete Mathematics is a summer program for mathematically talented high school students. It provides a mathematically rich environment designed to encourage students to consider careers in the mathematical sciences.
Toxicology, Health & Environmental Disease High School Summer Program
The Toxicology, Health & Environmental Disease (THED) High School Summer Program is an intensive program requiring active involvement. Students will participate in a variety of laboratory activities such as DNA isolation, PCR, cell culture, gel electrophoresis, enzyme activity measurement, and microscope slide staining, in addition to discussions about careers in medicine, pharmacy, toxicology, environmental science, and research. This summer program is open to highly motivated high school students interested in the biomedical and environmental sciences, entering the 10th, 11th or 12th grade in the fall. Participants must have completed at least one high school biology course.
New Jersey Northern Junior Science and Humanities Symposium
The Junior Science and Humanities Symposium (JSHS) is back for the 2026-2027 year!
Applications are now open!
2026-2027 JSHS:
Teachers can no longer nominate students. All high school students (must be a U.S. citizen or a legal permanent resident in the United States/ U.S. territory) are welcome to participate in JSHS based on their region. Parent permission is required for all applicants under the age of 18. Also, video presentations for symposium finalists are no longer a requirement.
Poster Application: Abstract & Statement of Outside Assistance
Oral Application: Abstract, Statement of Outside Assistance, & Research Paper
2026-2027 Applications Are Open: Apply Here
2027 Symposium Date: February 22, 2027 - Location: Livingston Student Center - LSC Hall
Finalists will be notified in January 2027 from the Aresty Research Center.
Please review the updated Core Rules of Competition in its entirety for clarity on the eligibility rules, abstract and research paper preparation, judging criteria, and so much more before applying. Here is the updated Statement of Outside Assistance required for both research presentation formats.
The JSHS Mission
- To promote research and experimentation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) at the high school level.
- To recognize the significance of research in human affairs and the importance of humane and ethical principles in the application of research results.
- To search out talented youth and their teachers, recognize their accomplishments at symposia, and encourage their continued interest and participation in the sciences, technology, mathematics, and engineering.
- To expand the horizons of research-oriented students by exposing them to opportunities in the academic, industrial, and governmental communities.
- To increase the research and development capabilities of the future U.S. workforce.
How Students Benefit from Participation
- Public recognition and certificates, honoring achievement, and interest in research pursuits.
- Attainment of a sense of achievement and self-confidence resulting from interaction with students from other schools and regions and with professional researchers and educators.
- Connection to future research opportunities through other Department of Defense STEM programs and networks with university and industry professionals.
- Access to Department of Defense, university, and industry laboratory tours, speakers, and activities to provide insight into STEM careers and professional development.
Scholarships and Awards
JSHS recognizes outstanding research presented by high school students at Regional and National Symposia. The U.S. Office of the Secretary of Defense and the U.S. Departments of the Army, Navy, and Air Force jointly sponsor undergraduate tuition scholarships and cash awards for student finalists who are citizens or Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR) of the United States, at the Regional and National Symposia. Learn more about scholarships and competition awards.
Please direct all questions to aresty@echo.rutgers.edu.
Pursue Your Research Journey at Rutgers
View details about application due dates, using the Common Application to apply to Rutgers, information on tuition and fees, browse our undergraduate programs, and learn more about undergraduate research at Rutgers–New Brunswick.