research projects for high school

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A guide for pursuing independent scientific research opportunities in high school.

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Charles Darwin, Albert Einstein, Benjamin Franklin and Nikola Tesla: these famous scientists are known for their innovation and intellectual curiosity. For students who also dream of becoming an innovator, nothing is stopping them from exploring research while they are still in high school through an independent research project (IRP). When conducted well and presented appropriately on a college application, the project can help a student stand out among the masses.

According to U.S. News and World Report , “High school students who have an impressive personal project they are working on independently often impress colleges, because their commitment to a successful solo endeavor conveys initiative, self-discipline and originality.” 

IRPs can showcase critical thinking, initiative, and research acumen. These projects can be used to distinguish the student from their peers, especially in STEM-related disciplines, which is often hard to accomplish.

Students can do an independent research project to stand out when applying to competitive schools.

Ways To Pursue An Independent Research Project

There are many different avenues where students can pursue an independent research project. For many, an easy way to get started is by accessing resources at their high school, either through a research-based class or independently with a teacher. 

Lindsey Conger , an independent college counselor at Moon Prep , frequently guides her students in reaching out to local professors to work with them on their current research projects. Recently, one of her students successfully partnered with a university professor to start a project on how jet lag affects intelligence and plans to finish a research paper by the end of the summer. The long-term goal is to get this paper published in a high school research journal. 

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Many students might prefer a more structured setting by attending a camp focused on research, while highly-motivated students can choose to pursue a project independently. No matter which pathway students choose, the end goal should be the same: getting published in a high school research journal and showcasing your work. 

Research Projects Through Your High School

One of the first avenues to consider is whether your high school already has a research program or a research-based curriculum that you can tap into to start a project. There’s a built-in advantage to this approach because the student can utilize school resources and mentorship from their instructors. Some high schools have research classes with an independent project component that can be submitted to local science fair competitions. Students who win their school’s science fair should always look to take their accomplishments to the next level and compete at the state or national fair. By always looking for ways to continually progress with their projects, students can demonstrate to colleges their motivation and skills. 

Other school pathways for conducting an IRP include AP Capstone . This program from the College Board consists of two Advanced Placement (AP) courses: AP Seminar and AP Research . Both courses guide students through a research project, writing an academic thesis paper, and making a public presentation.

AP Seminar, a year-long course, encourages students to explore real-world issues. By the end of this course, students will have completed both a team project and an independent paper and presentation.AP Research lets students explore any research topic or issue in which they are interested. After a year-long investigation, students will write a 4,000 - 5,000 word paper on the topic.

Work With A College Professor

Finding a mentor to work with you on a research project can help you gain access to resources, guide you through the data-gathering process, and help you form conclusions. 

One way to find a mentor is by reaching out to college professors who are researching or studying a similar topic that you are interested in pursuing. 

To get started, students can follow these steps: 

• Make a list of your future career interests.
• Start to document potential research topics related to your interests.
• Search current research studies, by professors and graduate students, on local colleges’ department faculty websites.
• Reach out to faculty members whose research interests you (a sample email is listed below as a guide).
• Include your activities resume to allow the faculty to get to know more about you and your interests.

Sample email: 

Dear Dr. Andrews,

My name is James Smith, and I am a current junior at Central High School. I aspire to major in microbiology while in college, and I am eager to further my knowledge in the field through hands-on research involving immunology. I have taken numerous challenging courses and received an ‘A’ in AP Biology, AP Chemistry, AP Calculus and AP Physics. As a Texas native, I have long been familiar with the research resources at the University of Texas, and I find your current research on tuberculosis especially intriguing. I would love the opportunity to learn more about your research. I would greatly appreciate the chance to discuss the potential opportunities for collaboration. Is it possible to schedule a brief call this week? 

Thank you for your time and consideration,

James Smith

Attend A Structured Research Program

Students might be hesitant to tackle an independent project because they are overwhelmed by the process. Choosing the right topic, finding resources, or securing a mentor can all be daunting tasks. Additionally, because students are juggling rigorous courses, extracurricular activities and preparing for standardized exams, gaining momentum can be a difficult hurdle. 

Therefore, STEM-focused research programs can be a more structured pathway to an independent research project. Students are mentored by an experienced instructor through a program and can sometimes even earn college credit. Students can then continue advancing their research after the course has ended or use their newfound skills as a springboard for other research projects. 

Rising Researchers is an online research-intensive class designed to provide students with an introduction to the principles of scientific research. Before the class begins, students are mailed a lab kit, including a microscope. While it is an online class, students won’t be sitting in front of a Zoom screen, statically learning. Through small group discussions and hands-on experiments at home, students delve into the microbial world while learning from a leading scientist from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. Many students completing the Rising Researchers program go on to have their independent research published in scientific journals. 

By completing interactive experiments, students will master the proper use of the scientific method to answer a research question, make observations and interpret results. Students can then leverage what they learn throughout the program to take their research to the next level through a passion project.

Sample Passion Project Ideas Include:

• Self-publish a book or guide on Kindle/Amazon
• Start a podcast
• Run an informational campaign on social media 
• Launch a YouTube channel
• File for a patent
• Publish a blog
• Hold a workshop or online course

Publish Your Work In A High School Research Journal

Once you have completed an independent research project, the final step is to get it published in a high school research journal. This can take months, as there is often a strict editing and approval process. Students should plan accordingly to ensure that the paper is published before they submit their college applications. 

However, students who are still in the process of compiling their research can find other ways to get involved in research journals. Some journals allow students to critique an article or write a blog post about current research. Writing a full research paper isn’t always necessary to showcase research skills. 

A Sampling Of High School Science Journals:

1) Journal of Emerging Investigators (JEI)

Founded by Harvard University graduate students, the Journal of Emerging Investigators (JEI) aims to help mentor the next generation of scientists. An advantage of this program is students can get feedback from university Ph.D. candidates and research experts on their topic. Their feedback can help students expand their research question or more accurately interpret results. 

Younger students are also welcome to apply—JEI will accept research from both middle and high school scientists.

2) Columbia Junior Science Journal 

The Columbia Junior Science Journal allows students to publish in topics within the natural sciences, physical sciences, engineering and social sciences fields. Students can submit one- to two-page original research papers or two- to five-page review articles. Because of the shorter length, it makes it more feasible for students to finish the research paper. 

Students don’t necessarily have to complete independent research; they can review a published article instead. The journals are published annually, with each paper undergoing a strict peer-review process. 

3) The National High School Journal of Science (NHSJS)

NHSJS is a free, online, student-run and peer-reviewed research journal that is targeted towards high school students. To be published in this journal, students don’t have to do independent research. They can also submit a review or short article, making NHSJS a good starting point for students interested in research.

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5 Free Virtual Research Opportunities For High School Students

Virtual research opportunities for high school students are programs that provide hands-on experience and research projects in various STEM fields, such as mathematics, computer science, computational biology, physics, neuroscience, and engineering. These programs are designed to deepen students’ understanding of STEM and help them develop the skills needed to succeed in their academic and professional careers. 

Participating in these programs can also help high school students expand their knowledge and skills in their areas of interest and work on exciting, unsolved problems with established researchers from top-tier universities. 

Virtual research opportunities are especially useful for high school students who are unable to attend in-person programs due to distance, cost, or other factors. They offer a flexible and accessible way to gain valuable experience and knowledge from the comfort of their own homes. In this article, we will discuss five free virtual research opportunities available for high school students.

1. MIT Primes  

MIT PRIMES is a free, year-long after-school program that provides research projects and guided reading to high school students in the areas of mathematics, computer science, and computational biology. The program is designed for students living within driving distance from Boston, and it offers four sections: PRIMES, PRIMES-USA, Menezes Challenge PRIMES Circle, and Yulia’s Dream.

PRIMES is a research-focused program in which participants work with MIT researchers to solve exciting, unsolved problems. PRIMES-USA is a distance mentoring math research section for high school juniors and sophomores from across the United States. Menezes Challenge PRIMES Circle is a math enrichment section for underrepresented groups living within commuting distance from Boston. Yulia’s Dream is a math enrichment and research program for exceptional high school students from Ukraine.

In addition to these sections, PRIMES runs two collaborative initiatives: MathROOTS, a two-week summer program for high-potential high school students from underrepresented backgrounds or underserved communities, and CrowdMath, a year-long online collaborative research project open to all high school and college students worldwide.

Finally, PRIMES STEP is a year-long math enrichment program for middle school students from Greater Boston.

Overall, MIT PRIMES aims to provide challenging and engaging opportunities for students with a passion for mathematics and science. Through research projects, guided reading, and collaborative initiatives, PRIMES seeks to foster the intellectual growth and development of high school and middle school students, and to inspire them to pursue their interests in these fields.

MIT PRIMES is a prestigious year-long after-school program that offers research projects and guided reading to high school students interested in mathematics, computer science, and computational biology. 

The admissions for the 2023 cycle are closed, and the admission decisions are made by February 1. However, for the 2024 cycle, new problem sets will be posted on October 1, 2023, and applicants will have until November 30, 2023, to solve the relevant problem set(s). 

To apply for MIT PRIMES, you must be a high school student (or a home-schooled student of high school age) living in the Greater Boston area, able to come to MIT weekly from February to May.

To apply, you need to fill out a questionnaire, ask for two or three letters of recommendation, and submit your solutions of the PRIMES problem set. Applicants to the Math section must solve the Math problem set (at least 70%), and applicants to the Computer Science and Computational Biology sections must solve the Computer Science problem set (100%) and the General part of the Math problem set (at least 70%). Admission decisions are based on all components of your application, and there is no application fee.

MIT PRIMES suggests a list of recommended readings as a preparation for entering the program and as a background for further research. By participating in MIT PRIMES, students can gain hands-on experience working on exciting, unsolved problems with MIT researchers and expand their knowledge and skills in these areas.

The Summer Academy for Math and Science (SAMS) is a program that provides opportunities for underrepresented high school students to explore STEM fields. The program is designed to deepen students’ understanding of STEM through traditional classroom instruction, hands-on projects, and sustained engagement with faculty and staff mentors. 

SAMS Scholars are taught by renowned faculty and staff who are deeply committed to their success. They also have the opportunity to collaborate and develop meaningful relationships with peers from across the country. Through SAMS and other outreach initiatives, the program aims to develop a diverse and supportive community of STEM Scholars interested in attending top-tier universities.

The program consists of two parts: Part one is a virtual jumpstart that will occur prior to the start of the residential program. This will focus on skill-building that will be needed for the in-person program. Part two is a 5-week in-person Pre-College program where students will move into the residence halls and attend full days of courses and meetings. The academic portion of the program will conclude with a symposium, and students will move out of the residence halls at the end of the program. 

SAMS is a fully funded, merit-based program, and there is no cost for scholars to participate. To be eligible for the program, students must be at least 16 years old, a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and a junior in high school at the time of application submission. Scholars are expected to participate fully for the duration of the program and cannot participate in any other programs if selected for SAMS.

3. University of Illinois – High School Summer Research Program

The High School Summer STEM research program invites current 9th-11th graders from Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Missouri, Iowa, or Wisconsin to apply for an authentic six-week STEMM research experience at a world-class research university. Participants will be matched with another student, and in some cases, a teacher from their school. 

The program aims to provide hands-on experience in various STEMM fields, including cancer immunology, neuroscience, artificial intelligence, physics, quantum mechanics, bioengineering, and electrical engineering.

Participants will work with established researchers in engineering, computer science, and medicine and attend weekly seminars on topics such as college admission processes and support available, communicating scientifically, and preparing research posters etc. Students will also interact with faculty, post-doctoral researchers, graduate students, undergraduate students, and local high school teachers.

Participants will showcase their research with a research poster and symposium at the end of the program. They should plan for 30-35 hours per week of research and professional development time, with a majority of activities taking place on the University of Illinois campus. 

The program covers some transportation/parking expenses, meals, and a monetary award.

High school teachers play an essential role in the program, with some research projects requiring a teacher to be a co-researcher, and others having a teacher mentor who checks in weekly with the students to discuss their research progress and address any issues or challenges. 

Teachers and students do not need to come from the same school, and interested individuals should apply regardless of whether they can recruit others from their school to apply.

The program also invites research faculty, staff, and graduate student researchers affiliated with The Grainger College of Engineering and the Carle Illinois College of Medicine to propose a high school research project for consideration. The proposals will be mentored by POETS YS, GEnYuS, or SpHERES research teams, which will guide two high school juniors/seniors from limited understanding to completion of a related project of their own and poster presentation explaining their research.

In summary, the High School Summer STEM research program provides high school students with an opportunity to engage in authentic STEMM research and develop professional and college-ready skills. Participants work with established researchers, attend weekly seminars, and showcase their research at the end of the program. 

The program aims to provide hands-on experience and build confidence in students as scientists and engineers.

4. Simons Summer Research Program

The Simons Summer Research Program is a highly selective program that offers high school students the opportunity to conduct hands-on research with Stony Brook faculty mentors. Founded in 1984, the program attracts applicants from all over the country, with Simons Fellows being paired with a faculty mentor, joining a research group or team, and taking responsibility for a project. Students are encouraged to demonstrate independence, creativity, and an aptitude for hands-on work, with a strong interest in science. The program takes place during the summer before the student’s senior year of high school, with students participating in the program from June 26, 2023 to August 11, 2023.

In addition to working on their research project, Simons Fellows attend weekly faculty research talks, special workshops, tours, and events. At the closing poster symposium, students present their research project through a written research abstract and a research poster. Participants receive a stipend award.

The Simons Summer Research Program is supported by the Simons Foundation and is open to US citizens and/or permanent residents who are at least 16 years of age by the start of the program. The program is an opportunity for high school students interested in science to learn valuable techniques, experience life at a major research university, and develop independence, creativity, and an aptitude for hands-on work. The program aims to give students a glimpse into the world of scientific research and inspire them to pursue careers in science.

5. EnergyMag Internship

EnergyMag is offering virtual internships for high school and college students interested in increasing the share of renewable energy in the world and gaining work experience in the energy storage industry. 

The internships aim to provide students with research and analysis skills that will be valuable for their future professional lives. The virtual internship allows students to complete their internship hours virtually, providing flexibility to fit the experience into their busy personal and professional lives. Additionally, virtual interns enjoy the unique rewards of learning from experts regardless of their geographic location and strengthening their information and computer skills. 

The internships are strong resume boosters for employers, graduate college programs, and undergraduate programs. 

EnergyMag offers half-time and quarter-time virtual internships. Half-time internships are available in the summer for two to eight weeks, with interns expected to work approximately 20 hours per week. Quarter-time internships are available all year round for one to nine months, with interns expected to work approximately eight hours per week. The internships are unpaid, and interns work from home while maintaining daily electronic contact with EnergyMag and their mentor. 

Depending on the student’s graduation date, academic record, and experience, interns will be asked to research and analyze a specific company, technology, or market. The intern will be mentored, briefed, supervised, and assisted in producing a draft analysis report. If the report is publishable, EnergyMag will give the intern an internship Letter of Accomplishment. 

The application process for college and high school internships requires an application explaining why EnergyMag should grant an internship, a Skype or voice interview, and a writing sample upon request. College interns are also required to provide their academic record, and high school interns should have at least one honors science or English class with a GPA above 3.25. 

EnergyMag believes that internships provide the opportunity for students to learn on-the-job skills that are not easy to acquire at school but will make a big difference in their future professional success, such as learning how to research a scientific or business issue, approach strangers with positions of authority in a friendly and professional manner, analyze and synthesize information from multiple sources, and communicate professionally in writing.

The blog highlights five virtual research opportunities for high school students, providing hands-on experience and research projects in various STEM fields such as mathematics, computer science, physics, neuroscience, and engineering. These virtual research opportunities aim to provide students with a deeper understanding of STEM and develop the necessary skills to succeed in academic and professional careers. Furthermore, these programs help expand knowledge and work on unsolved problems with established researchers from top-tier universities.

Virtual research opportunities for high school students provide a flexible and accessible way to gain valuable experience and knowledge from the comfort of their own homes. These programs aim to foster the intellectual growth and development of high school and middle school students, and inspire them to pursue their interests in these fields.

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A Guide to Pursuing Research Projects in High School

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Most common high school pursuits and interests can be fit fairly neatly into the academic or extracurricular categories. There are of course required courses that you take, and then there are the activities that you pursue outside of school hours, usually for your own enjoyment. You may play on a sports team, participate in a service project, or pursue visual arts. In most cases, even if your interests are somewhat untraditional, you can somehow package them in a way that neatly qualifies them as an extracurricular activity.

But what if your interests outside of school are more academic in nature? What if you’ve long been fascinated by the potential that carbon sequestration holds to limit the effects of climate change? What if you’re interested in the history of civil disobedience, or the ability of exams to measure actual comprehension? Whatever the case may be, there are some topics of interest that just don’t fit neatly into any extracurricular club or activity.

If you find yourself longing to pursue an interest such as this, you might consider conducting your own research project. While the concept may seem daunting at first, if you break it down into smaller, manageable tasks, you’ll quickly find that you probably already have the skills necessary to get started.

In this post, we will outline the process for conducting a long-term research project independently, including several avenues for pursuing recognition of your work and a step-by-step guide to completing your project. If you’re interested in pursuing an independent research project during high school, keep reading.

Why Pursue an Independent Research Project?

An independent research project is a great way to explore an area of interest that you otherwise would not get to learn about outside of school. By undertaking a research project on your own, not only will you explore a personal area of interest in more depth, but also you will demonstrate your dedication to pursuing knowledge for the sake of learning and your ability to work independently over a prolonged period.

Independent research projects, when conducted well and presented appropriately on a college application, can be a great advantage to you on your college admissions.

How to Choose a Topic for a Research Project

If you’re interested in pursuing a research project, you probably already have a topic in mind. In fact, the desire to conduct a research project usually stems from an existing interest, not just from the idea to conduct research on a vague or undetermined subject matter.

You should aim to narrow your research project to something that has some academic relevance. Perhaps it is related to your existing coursework. Maybe it reflects work you hope to pursue in the future, either academically or professionally. Try to fine-tune your project enough that you can easily explain the driving force behind it and its relevance to your future career path.

While you don’t need to decide on your exact topic or thesis quite yet, you should have a general idea of what your project will entail before moving forward.

Are There Existing Avenues for Undertaking a Research Project At Your School?

While you could certainly conduct your research project completely independently from your school, it is usually easier and more productive to conduct it in a way that is somehow connected to the rest of your schooling.

If the project is STEM-oriented, think about whether it would fit into a science fair or other STEM competition in which your school already competes. Also consider the AP Capstone Program if your school offers it. The second course in this sequence is AP Research , and it requires an in-depth research project as its culminating assessment.

If neither of these formal avenues are available, or neither provides a good fit, look into the possibility of pursuing your project as an independent study. If your school offers independent studies for credit, you can usually get information about them from your adviser. These types of projects usually require an extended application process that must be followed closely if you want to gain approval.

Finally, even if you can’t take advantage of one of the options above, if you have achieved advanced standing or enough credits, your school might still allow you to undertake an extended individual research project through some type of formal arrangement. Talk with a teacher, mentor, or adviser to learn what your options are. Clearly communicate your innate desire to learn more about this specific topic and be prepared to give some background on the issue that you want to research.

Steps for Undertaking the Research Project

1. find a mentor or adviser.

You will need someone to help guide and advise your work, so finding a willing and able mentor should be one of your first steps. This should ideally be a person with existing expertise in the subject area you wish to pursue. In the least, this person should share your interest and passion for the topic.

A teacher at your school who can also serve as an adviser is ideal, and may even be a requirement if you are formally pursuing the project as an independent study for credit. If that is not possible, you can certainly find a mentor somewhere else, even remotely if necessary.

Find out if your subject matter pertains to any local industries or companies, or if there are any scientists or professionals nearby who specialize in it. Consider checking the instructors of local summer programs or judges from past science fairs at your school.   Also consider a professional who has written an article that interested you in the field.

Before you approach a mentor to request their help, familiarize yourself with his or her work. Be able to speak articulately about what has drawn you to him or her specifically. Put some thought into informed questions you might ask him or her. Be upfront about your needs if you are going to require any specific guidance or extended time or energy from your mentor. It might be difficult to find someone at first, but keep trying. Finding a mentor for your project is an important step.

2. Set a Timeline and Stick to It

Once you’ve found a mentor, you can get started laying out the timeline for your project. When you do this, list each step of your project as specifically as possible. These will include at a minimum: background research, writing a thesis statement, in depth research phase, outlining your final paper, drafting your paper, editing your paper, and publishing your paper.

You will probably have a completion date in mind, whether it’s required by the school or simply the end of the semester or school year. Work backwards from your completion date to set a realistic timeframe for each of these steps.

It helps to have a calendar displayed prominently with your deadlines listed clearly on it to keep you on track. Also be sure to put your deadlines into your school assignment book or Google calendar so that you can see how they overlap and affect your other commitments.

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3. Conducting Research

After you’ve completed your deadline calendar, you’re ready to get started with the fun stuff:   the actual research. There are many sources for finding high quality research materials. You can use your school library, your local library, and sometimes even the library at local colleges or universities. Sometimes the libraries at colleges are open only to registered students and faculty, but if you contact a library official or a member of the department related to your research project, you might be able to gain access for research purposes.

You may also take advantage of online research tools. Google Scholar is a good place to find peer-reviewed, high quality publications. You may also find out if your school has a subscription to any online research databases like Ebsco , or JSTOR . These databases provide digital compilations of hundreds of research journals, both current and archived.    

Be careful what you choose to use as sources, though. You need to ensure that every source you rely on is high-quality and fact-based. Many internet resources now are not as accurate as they might appear. Some are outdated and some are just wrong. Remember that just about anyone can publish something online these days, so you can’t rely on information that you find on just any old website. Be particularly wary of pages like Wikipedia that look like fact-based resources but are actually drawn from unfiltered user submissions.

As you research your topic, take careful notes to track your work. Choose a system to organize your notes, such as writing on notecards that can be easily organized, or using different colored pens to color code different subtopics of your research. By carefully organizing your notes, you’ll be better set up to organize your paper.

4. Organize Your Paper

Once you’ve completed the research phase of your project, you’re ready to organize your paper. Go through your notes carefully to see how they support your thesis. If they don’t, be prepared and open to changing your thesis. Always allow the research to guide the direction of your paper, and not vice versa.

Organize your notes into the order that makes most sense in your paper. Use them to guide an outline of your paper. Once they are in order, write out a rough outline of your paper.

Prewriting is an important step to writing your paper. It allows you to go into the drafting phase with as much preparation as possible so that your writing will have a clear direction when you begin.

5. Write Your Paper 

After your organization and prewriting, you’re ready to draft your paper. Try to break this phase up into smaller pieces so that you don’t burn out. Your final product will probably be one of the longest papers you’ve ever written, usually ranging from 15-30 pages depending on your subject, so you’ll want to pace yourself.

Break up your writing deadlines into more specific sub-deadlines to help guide your work. Set goals for completing the introduction, various sections of the body, and your conclusion.

6. Edit Your Paper 

There will be multiple stages of editing that need to happen. First, you will self-edit your first draft. Then, you will likely turn a draft of your paper in to your mentor for another round of editing. Some students even choose to have a peer or family member edit a draft at some point. After several rounds of editing, you will be prepared to publish your work.

7. Publish Your Work

Publication sounds like a very official completion of your project, but in reality publishing can take many different forms. It’s really just the final draft of your project, however you decide to produce it.

For some students, publication means submitting a draft of your project to an actual journal or formal publication. For others, it means creating a polished draft and a display board that you will present at a school or public event. For still others it might just be a polished, final draft bound and turned into your mentor.

However you decide to publish your work, be mindful that this should be a reflection of an entire semester or year of work, and it should reflect the very height of your learning and abilities. You should be proud of your final product.

If you’re a high school student with in-depth interests in a subject area that doesn’t fit neatly into any of your existing extracurriculars or academic courses, you should consider pursuing a research project to reflect your interest and dedication. Not only will your pursuit allow you to further explore a subject that’s interesting to you, but also it will be a clear example of your independence and commitment on your college applications.

Looking for help navigating the road to college as a high school student? Download our  free guide for 9th graders  and our  free guide for 10th graders . Our guides go in-depth about subjects ranging from  academics ,  choosing courses ,  standardized tests ,  extracurricular activities ,  and much more !

For more information about research and independent projects in high school, check out these posts:

• Ultimate Guide to the AP Research Course and Assessment
• How to Choose a Project for Your AP Research Course
• How to Get a Research Assistant Position in High School
• An Introduction to the AP Capstone Diploma
• How to Choose a Winning Science Fair Project Idea
• How to Plan and Implement an Independent Study in High School

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25+ Best Science Research Ideas for High School Students

If you’re an ambitious high school student looking for opportunities to build your college profile and learn new skills, consider undertaking a research project. You do not need to be sure about what you want to major in, but having a general idea aligned with your interests helps! Conducting research shows demonstrated interest in a subject, aids critical thinking and problem-solving, provides laboratory experience, and helps you gain analytical and communication skills. 

What makes a good research idea?

There are a few key components you need to keep in mind when thinking about a research topic:

What is your project trying to achieve? For your research to be relevant, it needs to identify a knowledge gap and be significant. Your research findings should add to existing literature and help future researchers.

It is important to state what will be included in your research explicitly.  Clearly defined boundaries help estimate a realistic timeline and allocate any necessary resources.  

The easiest way to be dedicated throughout your research project is by choosing a topic you are passionate about!  This will make sure you remain motivated throughout, and it will reflect in your work. Do not choose a topic for the sake of it — you will find the project difficult to complete and your disinterest will reflect in the quality of your work.

Feasibility:

You may have a grand idea for your research topic, but can you execute it? It’s important to consider any constraints you may have — time, money, etc. — and choose a topic that can be completed with your given resources.  If you are working independently, choose a topic that isn't resource-intensive. For example, research that requires you use advanced telescopes to examine cosmological patterns may not be feasible if you do not already have access to one. 

What do I do once I have a research idea?

Great job, you have found a topic that interests you, is relevant to the field, and is feasible in scope and resources! Next step, you need to find a mentor who can guide and advise you through the research process.  They could be a working researcher, a college professor, a graduate student, or a Ph.D. candidate.

If you’re looking for a mentor, we’d recommend applying to the Lumiere Research Scholar Program  which connects students with world-class researchers, offers one-on-one mentorship, and guides you through the research and writing process, even helping you get your paper published!

Chemistry research ideas for high school students:

Chemistry can be a great field to undertake independent research in — chemical reactions form the basis of life and can give you a deeper understanding of the world.  Moreover, chemistry is directly related to important issues that affect us, like climate change, drug discovery, nanotechnology, and more. Research in these domains can lead to life-changing benefits for society! 

Some topics you can research include:

1. Using green chemistry to achieve sustainability targets in the fields of energy, water remediation, agriculture, and sensing

2. Analyzing different energy storage options and comparing and contrasting different technologies' chemistries, performance, lifetime, cost, geographic and resource constraints, and more

3. Investigating how startups and the private sector’s newest technologies are critical to the transition to a green future and how products are commercialized from lab to market

4. Understanding how material nano-structure can create specific properties and take advantage of "structure-property" understanding to engineer new materials

5. Determining the role small molecules play in imaging, labeling, target identification, inhibiting native protein functions, and facilitating foreign ones, especially in new techniques used to understand disease pathways

6. Investigating how molecules are made in nature, such as the reactions performed by enzymes to make natural products

Suggested by Lumiere PhD mentors at Harvard University, University of California, Berkeley, Yale University, University of Cambridge, Technical University of Munich, Georgia Institute of Technology, Duke University, University of Leeds, Cornell University, and John Hopkins University

Biology research ideas for high school students:

Research in biology can contribute to humans’ understanding of living organisms, lead to medical breakthroughs and advancements in healthcare, contribute to cancer research and treatment, deepen our understanding of genetics, improve sustainability by helping develop biofuels and biodegradable materials, and more. 

7. Tumor progression and how cancer cells invade and interact with other cells

8. Cancer immunotherapy: the study of how cancer cells evade the immune system and how we can harness the immune system to battle cancer

9. Researching past and current technologies used in gene editing. Identify challenges and weigh the ethical and social implications of these technologies

10. Identifying technical challenges in mass vaccination campaigns. Review existing data from public health organizations and current scientific literature on new vaccine delivery technologies

11. Analyzing the effects of alcohol and drug addiction on the brain

12. Discovering different theories of learning and memory. You can design and use different  clinical studies here

Suggested by Lumiere Ph.D. mentors at Stanford University, UC Berkeley, Cornell University,  Duke University, and Yale University   

Physics research ideas for high school students:

Have space, quantum physics, nuclear science, and other such subjects always fascinated you? If so, a research project in physics is a great way to dig deeper and understand why different phenomena occur. Physics is a broad and interconnected discipline; research in the subject can cover topics like mechanical and electrical engineering, quantum computing, nuclear energy, astrophysical and cosmological phenomena, and computational technologies.

13. The features and limitations of augmented and virtual reality technologies, current industry standards of performance, and solutions to address challenges

14. Cosmological mysteries (like dark energy, inflation, and dark matter) and their hypothesized explanations

15. Physical processes that shape galaxies through cosmic time in the context of extragalactic astronomy and the current issues and frontiers in galaxy evolution

16. Radiation or radiation measurement in applications of nuclear physics (such as reactors, nuclear batteries, and sensors/detectors)

17. The electrical and thermodynamic properties of Boson particles, whose quantum nature is responsible for laser radiation

18. Mathematical derivation of the dynamics of particles from fundamental laws (such as special relativity, general relativity, and quantum mechanics)

19. The theoretical and experimental advances in quantum computing. Explore current high-impact research directions for quantum computing from a hardware or theoretical perspective

20. Nuclear fission or nuclear fusion energy as a possible solution to mitigate climate change

Suggested by Lumiere Ph.D. mentors at Northwestern University, Princeton University, Stanford University, Cornell University, University of Cambridge, Harvard University, University of California, Irvine, and University of Southampton.

Marine biology research ideas for high school students:

Contributing to research in marine biology can be extremely important given the diversity of marine ecosystems, the life they support, and their importance in combating climate change and preventing extreme weather events.  Understanding how oceans work directly relates to water pollution and the quality of seafood, contributes to coastal protection and carbon sequestration (the process of capturing and storing excess carbon dioxide), and helps educate the public on the importance of protecting marine habitats.

 If this interests you, here are some research topics to consider:

21. Examine how corals are responding to climate change, how the change in oceanic temperatures affects their reef-building capabilities, and the knock-on effects

22. Examine how marine conservation and tourism can go coexist. Suggest ways to ensure the sustainable development of coastal economies

23. Study how marine pollution impacts coastal areas, marine biodiversity, and communities’ livelihoods

24. Study how human activity (like pollution, fishing, and habitat destruction) has impacted marine genomes and how other anthropogenic factors have influenced adaptation and genetic diversity in marine organisms

25. Study the effect of plastic pollution on marine life and examine the benefits of adopting more eco-friendly and biodegradable packaging materials. Develop new methods to remove plastic from the ocean

26. Study carbon sequestration. Investigate how coastal ecosystems like mangroves, saltmarshes, seagrasses, etc. can help mitigate C02 emissions

27. Study the effect of plastic pollution on marine life and examine the benefits of adopting more eco-friendly and biodegradable packaging materials. Develop new methods to remove plastic from the ocean

If you’re looking for a competitive mentored research program in subjects like data science, machine learning, political theory, biology, and chemistry, consider applying to Horizon’s Research Seminars and Labs ! 

This is a selective virtual research program that lets you engage in advanced research and develop a research paper in a subject of your choosing. Horizon has worked with 1000+ high school students so far, and offers 600+ research specializations for you to choose from. 

You can find the application link here

If you’re serious about conducting independent research, you may want to consider the Lumiere Research Scholar Program , a selective online high school program for students founded by researchers at Harvard and Oxford. Last year, we had over 4000 students apply for 500 spots in the program! You can find the application form here . You can also reach out to us at [email protected] to know more, or to have a chat about possible collaborations!

Also check out the Lumiere Research Inclusion Foundation , a non-profit research program for talented, low-income students. Last year, we had 150 students on full need-based financial aid!

Kieran Lobo is a freelance writer from India, who currently teaches English in Spain.

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Lead admissions expert, table of contents, start your search for your dream research opportunity, 40 incredible research opportunities for high schoolers, 1. research mentorship program, 2. aspiring scholars directed research program (asdrp), 3. quarknet summer research program, 4. student research institute, 5. student research internships, 6. simons summer research program.

• 7. Summer Research Experience Program 

8. WYSE Summer Engineering Camp

• 9. WYSE Young Scholars Summer STEMM Program 

10. Biomedical Research Academy

• 11. Chemistry Research Academy 
• 12. Experimental Physics Research Academy 
• 13. Neuroscience Research Academy 
• 14. Social Justice Research Academy 

15. Medical Sciences Summer Institute

16. high school summer research experience, 17. summer science research experience, 18. medical institute summer research program (simr), 19. grips program, 20. summer student research program, 21. educational pathways for cancer research, 22. future scientist program, 23. kimberly querrey summer research program, 24. student research apprentice program, 25. summer experience for students, 26. research in the biological sciences (ribs), 27. high school summer internship program, 28. summer high school research program, 29. biomedical research workshops, 30. college now stem research academy, 31. bioengineering research programs, 32. life sciences research program, 33. marine science research program, 34. school of medicine research program, 35. business research program, 36. summer research program, 37. high school internships with aspirnaut, 38. student volunteer program, 39. student scholars program, 40. full research programs.

Stay up-to-date on the latest research and college admissions trends with our blog team.

Why are research opportunities for high school students in 2024 so exciting? Well, there are a few reasons. Firstly, teenagers in the 21st century are coming of age during a thrilling era of cutting-edge scientific development. Technology advances exponentially every day, breaking down barriers to interdisciplinary knowledge. What’s more, high school students have unprecedented access to research opportunities that can significantly enhance their academic and professional futures. Under the right guidance, research experience can add a serious competitive edge to a young student’s resume. 

It’s true. Engaging in research not only cultivates critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical skills for young adults, but also provides a platform for today’s students to contribute to real-world advancements and innovations. As we step into 2024, the breadth and diversity of research opportunities available to high school students are more varied than ever, encompassing fields from the sciences and engineering to the humanities and social sciences. 

Are you excited yet? Let’s dive into what options are available.

This article explores the myriad of incredible research opportunities accessible to high school students this year, detailing programs, internships, and competitions that can help aspiring scholars gain invaluable experience and make meaningful contributions to their chosen fields . 

Whether your interest lies in laboratory research, social science studies, or interdisciplinary projects, there is an opportunity waiting to help you unleash your potential and prepare for the future. Let’s get this research party started! 

Next up we have a list of some of the best research opportunities out there for high school students in 2024, presented for you to browse. These options are presented in no particular order.

Along with their mentor, students will learn about research techniques, gain insight into professional research-based opportunities, and mature their academic goals. The GRIT talks lecture series will connect students to some of the best minds within the UC Santa Barbara research community as they present their ground-breaking research and innovative technology.

• Apply to : University of California, Santa Barbara
• Age Eligibility : Freshman (9th), Sophomores (10th), and Juniors (11th)
• Location : Santa Barbara, California

Students participate in research projects across various subjects in STEM, including chemistry, biology, computational modeling, computer science, and much more. Students publish and present their work as well in venues within and outside of ASDRP. Research in ASDRP is supervised by highly skilled scientists  and engineerson the research faculty, who are clustered under one of three departments—Biological/Human/Life Sciences, Chemistry/Biochemistry/Physics, or Computer Science & Engineering.

• Apply to : Olive Children Foundation Engineering Research Laboratory
• Age Eligibility : All high school students (9th-12th)
• Location : Fremont, California

QuarkNet offers summer research opportunities in science and technology for students who have demonstrated a strong interest in and aptitude for science and mathematics. Students work with scientists for seven weeks on projects related to the Fermilab research program.

• Apply to : Fermilab Research Alliance
• Age Eligibility : Sophomores (10th), Juniors (11th), and Seniors (12th)
• Location: Fermilab campus in Illinois

Projects will focus on using Python, Java or other programming languages for interesting applications such as in cryptography or in global data trend evaluations. Computational science projects will utilize molecular modeling and drug design methods for biological or medicinal applications (cancer and other diseases).

• Apply to: Quest SRI
• Age Eligibility: Sophomores (10th), Juniors (11th), and Seniors (12th)
• Location: Virtual meetings

The Student Research Internship Program is a 10-week summer program designed for high school, undergraduate, graduate and professional students. The primary goal is to equip students interested in health sciences, statistics, and computational/computer science to become future leaders in the realm of translational medical research.

• Apply to: Scripps Research Institute
• Age Eligibility: All high school students (9th-12th)
• Location: San Diego, California

The Simons Summer Research Program gives academically talented, motivated high school students the opportunity to engage in hands-on research in science, math or engineering at Stony Brook University. Simons Fellows work with distinguished faculty mentors, learn laboratory techniques and tools, become part of active research teams, and experience life at a research university.

• Apply to: Stony Brook University
• Age Eligibility: Juniors (11th)
• Location: New York campus

7. Summer Research Experience Program 

Computer Science and Informatics Summer Research Experience Program (CSIRE) is a 6-week research experience program on computer science and informatics for high school students. The program assumes the participant already has good skills in programming or data analytics. Since launching in 2017, the program has become increasingly competitive.

• Location: New York campus OR virtual meetings

These summer camps are designed to allow students to experience authentic & challenging projects & activities, world-class instructors, and a collegiate experience from one of the best engineering schools in the world. Camps provide exposure to different areas of engineering through demonstrations, lab tours, classroom presentations, hands-on activities, and interactions with various students, staff, and professors in those fields.

• Apply to: University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign
• Age Eligibility: All high school students (91th-12th)
• Location: Urbana-Champaign, Illinois campus

9. WYSE Young Scholars Summer STEMM Program 

Participate in an authentic STEMM research experience at a world-class research university for 6 weeks during the summer. Students will gain hands-on experience in areas at the forefront of various STEMM fields, such as cancer immunology, neuroscience, artificial intelligence, physics, quantum mechanics, bioengineering, electrical engineering, and more!

• Location: Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Iowa, and Wisconsin

The Biomedical Research Academy introduces the experimental basis of cellular, molecular, and genetic aspects of biology, focusing on relevance to diseases. Fusing daily lectures, faculty research talks, laboratory experiments, and small group investigations into current research topics, students gain insight into the core of biomedical research.

• Apply to: The University of Pennsylvania
• Age Eligibility: Freshman (9th), Sophomores (10th), and Juniors (11th)
• Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

11. Chemistry Research Academy 

Penn Chemistry is a leading center for molecular research and instruction, whose researchers are at the frontier of modern chemistry, tackling a wide variety of important societal challenges. The Chemistry Research Academy provides students with the foundational knowledge to understand this cutting-edge research, while providing opportunities to hear and learn directly from several of the research professors and students.

• Age Eligibility: Sophomores (10th) and Juniors (11th)

12. Experimental Physics Research Academy 

The Experimental Physics Research Academy focuses on current physics, specifically mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum dynamics, and astrophysics. Through lectures, activities, projects, and discussions with their instructors, students move past memorized equations to gain an understanding of cause and effect, and ultimately an appreciation of physics on a higher level.

13. Neuroscience Research Academy 

The Neuroscience Research Academy explores the biological foundations of the brain, progressing from the cellular foundations of the neuron to an understanding of the sensory systems, and culminating with higher-order cognitive functions such as memory, emotion, and morality. Taught by members of Penn’s Biological Basis of Behavior program, the Neuroscience Academy introduces students to this cutting-edge field in both research and medicine, which has provided important insights into understanding the mind in both health and disease.

• Age Eligibility: Freshman (9th), Sophomores (10th)s and Juniors (11th)

14. Social Justice Research Academy 

The Social Justice Research Academy brings students from around the world together for three weeks to dive deep into the past, present, and future of social justice. Designed to encourage discussion and critical thinking about the political, historical, and cultural context of inequality and resistance, the program welcomes students with a variety of academic interests across the social sciences, humanities, and arts. Topics vary from year to year but include a selection of significant historical struggles as well as those that define our recent past and present.

The University of Cincinnati College of Medicine has created a summer workshop for those who are at least 16 years old, interested in careers in medicine, or other healthcare related fields, and wish to gain some experience in medical research in a state-of-the art laboratory. Students will learn to formulate hypotheses, design experiments, analyze data and communicate their conclusions at a research symposium at the end of the course.

• Apply to : University of Cincinnati College of Medicine
• Location: Cincinnati, Ohio

In addition to lab work, you’ll have classroom instruction on cancer basics, seminars with invited speakers, and professional development opportunities. At the end of the summer, you’ll give a poster presentation at a research conference just like our graduate students and post-doctoral scholars do.

• Apply to: Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center
• Location: Buffalo, New York

SSRP Scholars will participate on a research team designed and guided by Rockefeller trainees. SSRP teams mirror the structure of a Rockefeller laboratory, where one trainee serves as team lead with support from dedicated scientist-mentors. Each team will have their own space in the RockEDU laboratory.

• Apply to: The Rockefeller University
• Location: New York City, New York

This is an eight-week program in which high school students with a broad range of experiences, interests and backgrounds are invited to perform basic research with Stanford faculty, postdoctoral fellows, students and researchers on a medically-oriented project. The goals of the program include increasing interest in biological sciences and medicine in high school students and helping students to understand how scientific research is performed.

• Apply to: Stanford University
• Age Eligibility: Juniors (11th) or Seniors (12th)
• Location: Palo Alto, California

GRIPS is a twenty hour, eight week long research intensive experience for high school students. Program participants will be placed in a research laboratory for the summer and conduct genomics research under the supervision of a lab mentor.

• Location: Palo Alto, California (with hybrid meetings)

This summer program provides one-on-one mentorship with health care providers and researchers, along with access to unique workshops, seminars, training, simulations, and networking opportunities. The program culminates in a formal research symposium in which each student presents their project findings to the scientific community, many of which continue on as future grants, publications, and advances in healthcare.

• Apply to: University of California, San Francisco
• Age Eligibility: Juniors (11th) and Seniors (12th)
• Location: San Francisco, California

Video: An Opportunity Awaits

The EPCR summer program provides mentored, high-quality, cancer-focused research experiences for graduating high school seniors and undergraduate students. Participants will develop skills to think analytically and critically; design, perform and troubleshoot experiments; interpret research data; formulate new ideas; and propose meaningful strategies for testing those ideas through experiments with guidance from mentors.

• Apply to: Indiana University
• Age Eligibility: Seniors (12th)
• Location: Bloomington, Indiana

The Future Scientist Program at IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center is a summer science program for high school juniors at Indianapolis and all Marion County public schools, providing the opportunity to spend eight weeks on a research project under the mentorship of a university researcher.

The Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care’s Kimberly Querrey Summer Research Program offers a six- to eight-week paid, competitive research experience at Northwestern University for rising high school seniors and undergraduate college/university students interested in the biological sciences. Our program combines intensive research training with support for students’ academic and professional development.

• Apply to: Northwestern School of Medicine
• Location: Evanston, Illinois

This is a five-week summer program that provides students with a research experience in one of the basic science or clinical laboratories.

• Apply to : University of Connecticut Health
• Location: Storrs campus in Connecticut

This is a paid opportunity for high school and college students to work alongside world-renowned scientists and researchers and gain insights into careers in science or related areas. Through our four-week Summer Experience program, we offer a limited number of students an exclusive opportunity to be a part of the day-to-day research activities in dynamic research and biobanking environments, and we offer the possibility to experience biobank operations.

• Apply to: Coriell Institute for Medical Research
• Location: New Jersey

This four-week intensive training program is designed to expose students to a broad range of molecular, microbiological, and cell biological techniques currently used in research laboratories. Students are immersed in the research experience, giving them a taste of ‘life at the bench.’

• Apply to: T he University of Chicago
• Location: Chicago, Illinois

Our program provides students with the opportunity to participate in basic, translational, or clinical scientific research with the goal of stimulating interest in biomedical research as a potential career. During the 6-week, 240-hour program (holidays included) each student will have the opportunity to work on their own research project under the guidance of an investigator and their staff at MWRI or Magee-Womens Hospital.

• Apply to: Magee Womens Research Institute
• Location: Southwest Pennsylvania region

Students are selected from a pool of applicants for a five-week full-time summer research experience. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence and be recommended by their high school science teacher and/or science chair.  Students are assigned to Einstein research labs and will join the lab team under the guidance of the laboratory director (or principal investigator) who will serve as a mentor.

• Apply to: Albert Einstein College of Medicine

Our online workshops include Introduction to Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Medicinal Chemistry and Medical Bioinformatics. Intro to Cellular and Molecular Medicine is our entry-level workshop that is only two hours/day. Students in the Medicinal Chemistry and Medical Bioinformatics workshops learn how to use online tools to analyze biochemical data. For students interested in doing research or working on a project for a science fair, this is a great way to get started.

• Apply to: Rosetta Institute of Biomedical Research

This is a two-part program designed to provide students with an opportunity to develop the essential skills to be strong scientific thinkers by engaging in authentic enquiry based research activities. The first component of the program is a high school credit scientific investigative course (DNA Detectives) offered during the spring semester, and the second component is a six week college credit course (BIO189, 1 credit) that meets during the summer, in which students work in research labs under the supervision and mentorship of Lehman College faculty and their graduate students. Students are selected to participate in the summer mentorship based upon successful completion of the spring semester DNA Detectives course, and meeting additional eligibility criteria.

• Apply to : Lehman College

The UC San Diego Department of Bioengineering and UC San Diego Extended Studies are pleased to offer courses to high school students who are excelling in scholarship and would like to explore Bioengineering. The course offerings are based on fun, experiential, remote, at-home, hands-on lab activities.

• Apply to: The University of California, San Diego
• Age Eligibility: Sophomores (10th), Juniors (11th), or Seniors (12th)
• Location: San Diego, California (or hybrid meetings)

In partnership with Boz Institute, we will offer a unique science research learning experience. Our programs will involve field work, fundamental molecular biology topics, modern laboratory techniques, and relevant bioinformatics and statistical applications. Learn to synthesize life science fundamentals, review literature, formulate hypotheses and design experiments, collect and process samples, execute experiments, analyze data, and showcase your work through poster presentations attended by local scientists and industry leaders.

The following programs are designed to empower high school students to share learning, network with peers, and become environmental advocates. The goal of this program is to develop problem solving, organization, creative thinking, communication, collaboration, and leadership skills that will support future career goals and aspirations.

The following programs are designed with faculty from UC San Diego School of Medicine and are designed for high school students who wish to go into fields of medicine.

The following course is designed to prepare students for careers and advanced education in business innovation, entrepreneurship, and management with a solid grounding in fundamentals. While learning about topics of business innovation, design, venture financing, and growth strategy, students will gain the knowledge necessary to build an innovative business proposal and gain economic acumen.

• Location: Virtual Meetings

For eight weeks in the summer, student interns usually work with the mentors in laboratories or clinics. Interns learn techniques used in the health sciences laboratories, gain research study skills, and experience professional development and career preparation through weekly program seminars. Additionally, they receive training in presentation skills, including how to prepare a presentation for a scientific meeting.  At program end, all interns present their research findings at a poster session or oral symposium.

• Apply to: Louisiana State University
• Location: New Orleans, Louisiana

High school students are embedded in a biomedical research laboratory for six weeks as a member of a team of researchers (chemists, biologists, physicians, mathematicians, engineers) working on diabetes, cancer and regenerative biology projects. Students conduct their own research and gather results that contribute to the data and goals of the larger research team. At the conclusion of the experience, students present their research to peers and mentors through both oral and poster presentations.

• Apply to: Vanderbilt University
• Location: Nashville, Tennessee

NRL seeks volunteers that are currently enrolled in high school or college and possess an interest in science and engineering. Volunteer service is limited to services performed by a student as part of an agency program established for the purpose of providing educational experience for the student. The work is done strictly on an uncompensated basis.

• Apply to: US Naval Research Laboratory
• Location: Based in Washington, D.C.

The selected interns gain valuable hands-on experiences working with full-time AFRL scientists and engineers on cutting-edge research and technology and are able to contribute to unique, research-based projects.

• Apply to: The Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL)
• Location: Several locations across the United States

Our student-driven research programs teach the process of science through the creation of a field research project. By studying locations near your school campus, students strengthen their connection to the ecosystems in your community. In addition to delivering increased academic confidence, better social skills, and building science and language skills, all of our programs are designed in a fun and engaging way.

• Apply to: Headwaters Science Institute
• Location: Multiple locations in California

There you have it, folks. That’s our roundup of incredible research opportunities for high school students in 2024. Nonetheless, if none of these options strike your fancy, there are more out there. Check out this article for more tips on STEM academic programs for high schoolers. You can also consider a more customized program like Empowerly’s Research Scholar Program . No matter your academic interest area, there’s a project out there for your student!

When it comes to your education, there’s no need to compromise. Work with the experts to ensure you’re on the right track for academic success. 

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30 Chemistry Research Ideas for High School Students

By Eric Eng

Exploring chemistry research ideas as a high school student opens doors to a world of discovery and innovation. Chemistry can spark a passion for science that lasts a lifetime. If you are interested in chemistry, you have a unique opportunity to study topics that can shape your academic and career paths.

By focusing on innovative and accessible research ideas, you can begin to lay the groundwork for future scientific projects. We’ll guide you through selecting compelling topics, designing experiments, and understanding the impact of your work.

Chemistry Research Area #1: Environmental Chemistry

Environmental chemistry is a field ripe with opportunities for high school students to contribute to real-world solutions. By diving into chemistry research ideas tailored for high school students, you can explore the intricate balance between human activity and the environment.

Moreover, this exploration not only prepares you for a college major related to environmental sciences but also equips you with practical experience in addressing pressing global issues.

Here are specific topics you can explore:

1. Efficiency of Different Renewable Energy Sources in Power Generation

Renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydroelectric power are key to a sustainable future. You can measure their energy outputs using data loggers over a certain period. This research helps you understand which renewable energy source is the most efficient and why, offering a hands-on approach to data collection and analysis.

2. Impacts of Microplastics on Aquatic Ecosystems

Microplastics’ effects on aquatic life are a growing concern. Collect water samples from local bodies, identify microplastics through filtration and microscopy, and conduct toxicity tests on aquatic organisms. This project allows you to assess firsthand the environmental impact of plastic pollution.

3. Urban Air Quality and Mitigation Strategies

Urban air quality is a critical issue affecting public health and the environment. Monitor air pollutants in different urban zones, then analyze this data to pinpoint pollution sources. Based on your findings, propose actionable strategies to improve air quality, such as enhancing green spaces or promoting public transit.

4. Sustainable Agriculture Practices

Sustainable agriculture is vital for food security and environmental health. Analyze soil and plant chemistry to understand organic fertilization, crop rotation, and pest management’s effects. This research offers insights into how chemical processes can support eco-friendly farming practices.

5. The Effectiveness of Natural and Synthetic Pesticides

The debate between natural and synthetic pesticides is central to sustainable pest management. Design experiments to test various pesticides on agricultural pests, observing their effectiveness and impact on the ecosystem. This study sheds light on safer, more sustainable pest control methods.

Chemistry Research Area #2: Biochemistry and Biotechnology

Biochemistry and biotechnology are at the forefront of scientific innovation, offering solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

For high school students curious about chemistry research ideas, delving into these fields can provide a strong foundation for future studies and careers in biotechnology and healthcare. Engaging in research here allows you to contribute to groundbreaking advancements while gaining valuable laboratory experience and analytical skills.

6. Genetic Engineering in Enhancing Crop Resistance to Pests and Diseases

Genetic engineering holds promise for creating crops that can withstand pests and diseases. By using gene cloning and transformation techniques, you can introduce resistance traits into plants and evaluate their effectiveness. This project not only introduces you to molecular biology methods but also highlights biotechnology’s potential in agriculture.

7. Personalized Medicine and Gene Therapy

Personalized medicine represents a revolution in treating diseases. Investigate how genetic variations affect drug responses and demonstrate the impact of gene mutations on drug metabolism. This research underlines the importance of chemistry in developing targeted treatment strategies, offering a glimpse into future medical practices.

8. Use of Enzymes in Bioremediation Processes

Enzymes are powerful tools for cleaning up environmental pollutants. Isolate enzymes from microorganisms and test their ability to degrade specific contaminants. This hands-on approach not only teaches you about enzyme function but also their application in solving environmental issues.

9. Biochemical Mechanisms of Antibiotic Resistance in Bacteria

Antibiotic resistance is a growing concern in public health. By studying resistant bacteria strains, you’ll uncover the mechanisms behind this phenomenon. Your findings could contribute to new strategies for combating antibiotic resistance, showcasing the critical role of biochemistry in healthcare.

10. Algae-Based Biofuels as a Renewable Energy Source

Algae-based biofuels are an exciting area of research for sustainable energy. Experiment with different algae strains to optimize lipid production for biofuel. This project not only teaches you about biochemistry and metabolic engineering but also the importance of alternative energy sources in combating climate change.

Chemistry Research Area #3: Materials Science and Nanotechnology

Materials science and nanotechnology are fields that hold the key to groundbreaking innovations in various industries.

For high school students looking for chemistry research ideas, these areas offer a unique blend of chemistry, physics , and engineering, providing a glimpse into the future of materials and their applications. Engaging in research here not only enhances your understanding of advanced materials but also prepares you for a career at the cutting edge of technology and environmental sustainability.

11. Properties and Applications of Graphene in Electronics

Graphene’s unique properties make it a game-changer in electronics. Fabricate graphene samples and characterize their properties to discover their potential in making flexible electronics and sensors. This project offers a hands-on experience with advanced materials and their impact on future technologies.

12. Self-Healing Materials for Construction

Self-healing materials can revolutionize the construction industry. Create polymers or composites that can repair themselves and test their efficiency. This research teaches you about the chemistry behind smart materials and their potential to save resources and extend the life of infrastructure.

13. Environmental Impacts of Microplastics in Consumer Products

Microplastics in consumer products are a growing environmental concern. Analyze the presence of microplastics in personal care items and assess their impact. This study highlights the importance of sustainable materials and encourages you to think about solutions to reduce plastic pollution.

14. Nanomaterials for Targeted Drug Delivery

Nanomaterials could revolutionize cancer treatment through targeted drug delivery. Synthesize nanomaterials and assess their ability to deliver drugs directly to cancer cells. This research could introduce you to the intersection of materials science and biomedical applications, showcasing how chemistry can contribute to healthcare advancements.

15. Biodegradable Polymers for Biomedical Applications

Biodegradable polymers have significant potential in medicine. Study their synthesis and applications in drug delivery systems or tissue engineering. This project not only familiarizes you with polymer chemistry but also with their role in developing sustainable medical solutions.

Chemistry Research Area #4: Analytical Chemistry and Forensic Science

Analytical chemistry and forensic science play pivotal roles in solving environmental issues and criminal cases through the power of chemical analysis.

High school students intrigued by chemistry research ideas can dive into these fields to develop a keen eye for detail and a strong foundation in analytical techniques. This experience is invaluable for those considering majors in chemistry, forensic science, or environmental science in college, offering a practical understanding of how chemistry can be used to investigate and solve real-world problems.

16. Detection and Quantification of Heavy Metals in Water and Soil Samples

Heavy metals in the environment are a significant health risk. Learn to use atomic absorption spectroscopy or inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry to detect these contaminants. This research teaches you how to ensure water and soil safety, a critical aspect of environmental science.

17. Chemistry of Forensic Analysis Techniques

Forensic analysis techniques are crucial for solving crimes. Explore chromatography and mass spectrometry to identify substances in forensic samples. This project allows you to understand the chemistry behind crime scene investigation, preparing you for a potential career in forensic science.

18. Spectroscopic Methods to Analyze the Composition of Counterfeit Drugs

Counterfeit drugs pose a significant risk to public health. Use infrared spectroscopy or nuclear magnetic resonance to distinguish between authentic and counterfeit pharmaceuticals. This study highlights the importance of analytical chemistry in ensuring drug safety and quality.

19. Chemical Signatures of Illicit Drugs for Forensic Identification

Identifying illicit drugs is key to forensic analysis. Analyze common illicit drugs to find unique chemical markers using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. This research can introduce you to the methods used in forensic labs to combat drug-related crimes.

20. Analytical Chemistry in Environmental Monitoring and Pollution Control

Monitoring environmental pollutants is essential for protecting ecosystems. Collect and analyze samples from local sources to assess pollution using chromatography or spectrophotometry. This project helps you learn how analytical chemistry contributes to environmental conservation and pollution control.

Chemistry Research Area #5: Medicinal Chemistry and Drug Discovery

Medicinal chemistry and drug discovery are critical in developing new therapies to treat diseases and improve public health.

High school students interested in chemistry research ideas can make significant contributions to this field by exploring the synthesis and activity of pharmaceutical compounds. This area not only allows you to apply chemical concepts to real-world health challenges but also prepares you for future studies and careers in pharmaceutical sciences , biochemistry, and medicine.

21. Synthesis and Biological Activity of Natural Compounds with Pharmaceutical Potential

Natural compounds are a rich source of new medicines. Extract and purify bioactive compounds from plants or microbes and test their effects on cancer cells or pathogens. This research introduces you to drug discovery processes and the potential of nature in medicine.

22. Drug Interactions and Side Effects

Understanding drug interactions and side effects is vital for safe medication use. Investigate the mechanisms behind these phenomena and suggest ways to minimize adverse reactions. This study enhances your knowledge of pharmacology and the importance of careful drug design.

23. Computational Chemistry in Drug Design

Computational tools are revolutionizing drug design. Use software to model drug molecules and predict their interactions with biological targets. This project allows you to see how chemistry and technology intersect to create safer and more effective drugs.

24. Effectiveness of Natural Remedies for Common Ailments

Many people rely on herbal remedies for health issues. Test the efficacy of traditional treatments for conditions like inflammation or infections. This research can reveal the scientific basis behind alternative medicines and their potential integration into modern healthcare.

25. Plant-Based Medicines Used in Traditional Healing Practices

Traditional medicine offers insights into effective plant-based treatments. Analyze the chemical makeup of medicinal plants and correlate their components with therapeutic actions. This study connects ancient wisdom with contemporary scientific methods, highlighting the value of traditional remedies in today’s medical practices.

Chemistry Research Area #6: Food Chemistry and Nutrition

Food chemistry and nutrition are vital for understanding how food affects our health and well-being.

High school students exploring chemistry research ideas in this area can uncover the complex interactions between food components and the human body. This knowledge is crucial for those aiming to pursue a major in food science , nutrition, or related fields in college, offering a foundation for developing healthier food products and dietary recommendations.

26. Food Additives and Their Impact on Human Health

Food additives play a significant role in modern food production. Investigate the effects of preservatives, colorants, and flavor enhancers on health. This research helps you understand the balance between food safety and potential health risks, guiding consumers towards informed choices.

27. Nutritional Composition of Different Foods

Knowing what our food contains is key to a balanced diet. Analyze the nutrient content of various foods using techniques like spectrophotometry or chromatography. This project offers insights into food labeling accuracy and the importance of nutritional assessment.

28. Fermentation in Food Production

Fermentation is a cornerstone of many food industries. Examine the microbial processes and chemical reactions that produce beloved fermented foods. Through this research, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the science behind brewing, baking, and cheese making.

29. Antioxidants in Preventing Food Spoilage and Oxidative Stress-Related Diseases

Antioxidants are crucial for food preservation and health. Study how antioxidants in food can prevent spoilage and combat oxidative stress. This investigation can lead to better understanding of how diet influences health and longevity.

30. Food Allergies and Intolerances

Food allergies and intolerances affect many people worldwide. Delve into the chemical triggers and immune responses involved. Your research could contribute to developing diagnostic tools or therapeutic strategies, improving quality of life for those affected.

How do I choose the right high school chemistry research topic?

When looking for chemistry research ideas for high school students, consider topics that genuinely intrigue you and align with your academic goals. A topic that sparks your curiosity will keep you motivated throughout the research process. Additionally, ensure the topic is feasible in terms of resources, time, and your current level of knowledge in chemistry.

It’s also valuable to consider how your chosen topic could contribute to existing knowledge or address a real-world problem. Engaging with chemistry research ideas that have practical applications can enhance the significance of your work and potentially open doors to collaboration with mentors or institutions.

What are the fundamental theories and methodologies for high school physics research?

High school students venturing into physics research should have a solid understanding of fundamental theories such as classical mechanics, electromagnetism , and thermodynamics. These foundational concepts often serve as the backbone for more complex investigations. Acquiring a strong grasp of these theories will enable you to approach your research with a more informed perspective.

In terms of methodologies, familiarity with experimental design, data analysis, and statistical methods is crucial. Whether you’re exploring chemistry research ideas or delving into physics, being adept at formulating hypotheses, conducting experiments, and analyzing results is key. This skill set not only supports your current research endeavors but also prepares you for future scientific investigations.

How can I publish my high school chemistry research findings?

Publishing your high school chemistry research findings can be a rewarding way to share your hard work and contribute to the scientific community. Start by consulting with your mentor or teacher to identify relevant journals or conferences that accept submissions from high school students. They can offer guidance on the submission process and how to prepare your manuscript to meet publication standards.

Consider platforms specifically designed for young researchers, such as science journals for high school students or local and national science fairs . These venues often provide a supportive environment for sharing chemistry research ideas and findings with peers and professionals. Publishing your work not only enhances your academic profile but also demonstrates your commitment and capability in conducting meaningful scientific research.

How can my high school chemistry research experience boost my college application?

Incorporating your high school chemistry research experience into your college application can significantly enhance your profile. Highlighting your involvement in scientific research shows colleges your initiative, depth of interest in chemistry, and ability to engage with complex problems. It’s a testament to your critical thinking , perseverance, and hands-on skills in a lab setting.

Moreover, discussing the impact of your research, any challenges you overcame, and how it shaped your academic and career aspirations can provide a more comprehensive picture of your character and potential. This experience not only sets you apart from other applicants but also underscores your readiness for college-level research and your passion for advancing in the field of chemistry.

What are the latest trends in chemistry research?

The latest trends in chemistry research are increasingly focusing on sustainability and the development of green technologies . Researchers are exploring innovative ways to minimize environmental impact through the design of more efficient chemical processes, renewable energy sources, and materials that are biodegradable. These cutting-edge areas not only address global challenges but also open up new possibilities for scientific discovery and technological advancement.

Another significant trend is the rise of interdisciplinary approaches, combining chemistry with biology, physics, and engineering to tackle complex issues. This collaborative effort is leading to breakthroughs in areas such as nanotechnology, biochemistry, and medicinal chemistry, demonstrating the dynamic and evolving nature of chemistry research today.

Exploring chemistry research ideas for high school students offers a unique opportunity to dive into a world of discovery that extends far beyond the classroom. By choosing a topic that resonates with you, understanding essential theories and methodologies, and considering publication, you can make significant strides in your academic journey and college applications.

Remember, your research experience is not just about the findings you uncover. It’s about the curiosity, determination, and passion for science that you cultivate along the way. Let your research guide you toward a future where you can make a meaningful impact.

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Research Opportunities for High School Students

Hands-on laboratory-based research experiences are coveted by just about every STEM-oriented teenager on the planet. Of course, this level of demand renders research apprenticeships a valuable and rare commodity for high school students. Fortunately, there are a number of reputable summer programs run by universities, government agencies, and private research laboratories that afford young scientists this highly sought after experience. Research opportunities during the actual school year are more challenging to locate as colleges are, at that time, catering to their own students, and the rigidity of the high school calendar makes participation a further challenge.

College Transitions’ list of Research Opportunities for High School Students includes a bevy of summer program choices as well as a list of internships and apprenticeships that are indeed offered during the school year. For each entry, we list the geographic location of the program, whether there is a residential component offered, the length of the program, any associated costs or—on the other end—stipends, when the application window opens and closes, and the eligibility criteria for participation. We hope that this collection of research opportunities leads to you/your teen finding the laboratory experience of their dreams.

To view additional data columns, click the + icon to the left of the program’s name

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30 Best Science Experiments & Projects for High School

Welcome to our round-up of top science fair projects and science experiments tailored specifically for curious high school students.

Science fair is not just about the glitz and glamour of a first-place trophy; it’s about the passion, the inquiry, and the insatiable curiosity that drive every scientist, young and old. Hopefully, our curated list of the best hands-on science fair projects for high school students will ignite that curiosity in you.

Each project on this list offers a unique opportunity to dive deep into scientific inquiry and present findings with both clarity and flair.

Let’s dive in and make learning an unforgettable adventure!

1. Burn Calories

Don’t miss this opportunity to unravel the mysteries of energy transformation and uncover the scientific secrets hidden in the simplest of substances!

Learn more: Science Buddies

2. Extracting DNA from Strawberry

By following a series of simple yet insightful steps, students will witness the magical moment of DNA extraction, fostering a deeper appreciation for the fundamental building blocks of life.

Learn more: Extracting DNA from Strawberry

3. Build a Simple DIY Newton’s Cradle

As students assemble the materials and witness the rhythmic dance of swinging spheres, they will witness the scientific principles they’ve learned in the classroom come to life before their eyes.

4. Make a Monster Dry Ice Bubbles

Unleash your inner mad scientist and learn how to make Monster Dry Ice Bubbles with this high school science experiment!

Get ready to be captivated as you create giant, spooky bubbles that dance and swirl with the mysterious power of dry ice.

Learn more: Wonder How To

5. Soil Erosion Experiment

As stewards of our environment, it’s crucial to comprehend the impact of natural processes like soil erosion.

Through this experiment, students will gain a deeper appreciation for the significance of soil conservation and sustainable land management practices.

Learn more: Life is a Garden

6. Candle Carousel

This experiment combines the wonders of physics with the art of crafting, making it an enriching experience that ignites curiosity and fosters a deeper appreciation for the elegant dance of energy in our world.

7. Find Out if Water Conducts Electricity

In this captivating activity, students will explore the conductive properties of water and unlock the secrets of how electrical currents flow through different substances.

Learn more: Rookie Parenting

8. Roller Coaster Stem Experiment

By experimenting with various designs and track configurations, students will refine their problem-solving skills and gain valuable insights into the practical applications of physics and engineering.

Learn more: STEM Project

9. Lemon Battery

Engaging in this experiment not only teaches the basics of electrical circuits but also sparks curiosity about the natural world and the science behind it.

Learn more: Coffee Cups and Crayons

10. Watering Plants Using Different Liquids

Discover the wonders of plant hydration with the intriguing high school science experiment – “Watering Plants Using Different Liquids.” In this captivating project, students explore how various liquids impact plant growth and health.

Learn more: Lemon Lime Adventures

11. Measure Electrolytes Found in Sports Drinks

By conducting a series of tests and analyses, students will quantify the electrolyte content present in various sports drinks.

12. Relight the Flame Without Directly Touching It

This captivating project challenges students to learn about the intriguing properties of heat transfer and combustion.

By exploring different methods to reignite a candle flame without physical contact, students will uncover the secrets of heat conduction, convection, and radiation.

Learn more: Stevespangler

13. Conduct Fingerprint Analysis

This captivating project immerses students in the intriguing world of crime scene investigations, where they will uncover the uniqueness of fingerprints and their role in forensic science.

14. Separate Water Into Hydrogen And Oxygen Using Electrolysis

This electrifying project allows students to explore electrolysis and the decomposition of water into its elemental components.

Learn more: Navigating by Joy

15. Simple Color Detection Circuit 

This experiment not only introduces fundamental concepts in electronics and circuitry but also opens up endless possibilities for real-life applications, from automated sorting systems to color-sensitive devices.

16. Carbon Sugar Snake

This enchanting project allows students to witness a dazzling display of science as they combine common household ingredients to create a dark, coiling “snake” made of carbon.

Learn more: Kiwi Co

17. Build a Hydraulic Elevator

This captivating project invites students to learn about engineering and fluid mechanics. By constructing a working model of a hydraulic elevator, students will explore the principles of Pascal’s law and the fascinating concept of fluid pressure.

Learn more: Teach Beside Me

18. Brew up Some Root Beer

This enticing project invites students to explore the fascinating world of chemistry and fermentation while creating their own delicious and bubbly concoction.

Learn more: Home School Creations

19. Extracting Bismuth From Pepto-Bismol Tablets

This hands-on experiment not only sheds light on the principles of chemistry and lab techniques but also highlights the real-world applications of bismuth in medicine and various industries.

Learn more: Popscie

20. Solar-Powered Water Desalination

By designing and building a solar-powered water desalination system, students will learn how to harness the sun’s energy to purify saltwater and make it safe for consumption.

21. Applying Hooke’s Law: Make Your Own Spring Scale

By designing and constructing their very own spring scale, students will uncover the principles of Hooke’s Law and the relationship between force and displacement in a spring system.

22. Homemade Hand Warmer

By creating their own hand warmers using safe and easily accessible materials, students will witness the magic of heat generation through chemical processes.

Learn more: Steve Spangler

23. Explore the Concept of Symbiosis Involving Nitrogen-Fixing Bacteria.

By investigating how certain plants form a mutually beneficial bond with these bacteria, students will gain insights into the essential role of nitrogen fixation in the ecosystem.

Learn more: Education.com

24. Center of Gravity Experiment

This fascinating project invites students to explore the concept of the center of gravity and its role in determining stability.

25. Power up Homemade Batteries

This captivating project invites students to learn about electrochemistry and energy generation.

Learn more: 123 Homeschool

26. Film Canister Explosions

Prepare for a blast of excitement and chemistry with the high school science experiment – “Film Canister Explosions!” This project teaches students about chemical reactions and pressure build-up.

27. Investigating Osmosis with Potato Slices

This hands-on experiment not only provides a practical understanding of osmosis but also highlights its relevance in everyday life, from understanding plant hydration to food preservation techniques.

28. Make Homemade Fly Trap

This captivating “Make Homemade Fly Trap!” project invites students to explore the principles of pest control and observe the behavior of flies.

29. Hydroponics: Gardening Without Soil

This exciting project invites students to explore innovative agricultural practices that harness water and nutrient solutions to grow plants.

By setting up their hydroponic system and nurturing plants through this method, students will witness the fascinating dynamics of root development and nutrient absorption.

30. Clothespin Airplane

As they test and modify their creations, students will learn about the principles of lift, thrust, and drag, gaining a deeper understanding of how these forces come together to keep airplanes soaring through the skies.

Learn more: Steamsational

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70 Best High School Science Fair Projects in Every Subject

Fire up the Bunsen burners!

The cool thing about high school science fair projects is that kids are old enough to tackle some pretty amazing concepts. Some science experiments for high school are just advanced versions of simpler projects they did when they were younger, with detailed calculations or fewer instructions. Other projects involve fire, chemicals, or other materials they couldn’t use before.

Note: Some of these projects were written as classroom labs but can be adapted to become science fair projects too. Just consider variables that you can change up, like materials or other parameters. That changes a classroom activity into a true scientific method experiment!

To make it easier to find the right high school science fair project idea for you, we’ve rated all the projects by difficulty and the materials needed:

Difficulty:

• Easy: Low or no-prep experiments you can do pretty much anytime
• Medium: These take a little more setup or a longer time to complete
• Advanced: Experiments like these take a fairly big commitment of time or effort
• Basic: Simple items you probably already have around the house
• Medium: Items that you might not already have but are easy to get your hands on
• Advanced: These require specialized or more expensive supplies to complete
• Biology and Life Sciences High School Science Fair Projects

Chemistry High School Science Fair Projects

Physics high school science fair projects, engineering high school stem fair projects, biology and life science high school science fair projects.

Explore the living world with these biology science project ideas, learning more about plants, animals, the environment, and much more.

Extract DNA from an onion

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Medium

You don’t need a lot of supplies to perform this experiment, but it’s impressive nonetheless. Turn this into a science fair project by trying it with other fruits and vegetables too.

Re-create Mendel’s pea plant experiment

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Medium ADVERTISEMENT

Gregor Mendel’s pea plant experiments were some of the first to explore inherited traits and genetics. Try your own cross-pollination experiments with fast-growing plants like peas or beans.

Make plants move with light

By this age, kids know that many plants move toward sunlight, a process known as phototropism. So high school science fair projects on this topic need to introduce variables into the process, like covering seedling parts with different materials to see the effects.

Test the 5-second rule

We’d all like to know the answer to this one: Is it really safe to eat food you’ve dropped on the floor? Design and conduct an experiment to find out (although we think we might already know the answer).

Find out if color affects taste

Just how interlinked are all our senses? Does the sight of food affect how it tastes? Find out with a fun food science fair project like this one!

See the effects of antibiotics on bacteria

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Advanced

Bacteria can be divided into two groups: gram-positive and gram-negative. In this experiment, students first determine the two groups, then try the effects of various antibiotics on them. You can get a gram stain kit , bacillus cereus and rhodospirillum rubrum cultures, and antibiotic discs from Home Science Tools.

Learn more: Antibiotics Project at Home Science Tools

Witness the carbon cycle in action

Experiment with the effects of light on the carbon cycle. Make this science fair project even more interesting by adding some small aquatic animals like snails or fish into the mix.

Learn more: Carbon Cycle at Science Lessons That Rock

Look for cell mitosis in an onion

Cell mitosis (division) is actually easy to see in action when you look at onion root tips under a microscope. Students will be amazed to see science theory become science reality right before their eyes. Adapt this lab into a high school science fair project by applying the process to other organisms too.

Test the effects of disinfectants

Grow bacteria in a petri dish along with paper disks soaked in various antiseptics and disinfectants. You’ll be able to see which ones effectively inhibit bacteria growth.

Learn more: Effectiveness of Antiseptics and Disinfectants at Amy Brown Science

Pit hydroponics against soil

Growing vegetables without soil (hydroponics) is a popular trend, allowing people to garden just about anywhere.

More Life Sciences and Biology Science Fair Projects for High School

Use these questions and ideas to design your own experiment:

• Explore ways to prevent soil erosion.
• What are the most accurate methods of predicting various weather patterns?
• Try out various fertilization methods to find the best and safest way to increase crop yield.
• What’s the best way to prevent mold growth on food for long-term storage?
• Does exposure to smoke or other air pollutants affect plant growth?
• Compare the chemical and/or bacterial content of various water sources (bottled, tap, spring, well water, etc.).
• Explore ways to clean up after an oil spill on land or water.
• Conduct a wildlife field survey in a given area and compare it to results from previous surveys.
• Find a new use for plastic bottles or bags to keep them out of landfills.
• Devise a way to desalinate seawater and make it safe to drink.

Bunsen burners, beakers and test tubes, and the possibility of (controlled) explosions? No wonder chemistry is such a popular topic for high school science fair projects!

Break apart covalent bonds

Break the covalent bond of H 2 O into H and O with this simple experiment. You only need simple supplies for this one. Turn it into a science fair project by changing up the variables—does the temperature of the water matter? What happens if you try this with other liquids?

Learn more: Covalent Bonds at Teaching Without Chairs

Measure the calories in various foods

Are the calorie counts on your favorite snacks accurate? Build your own calorimeter and find out! This kit from Home Science Tools has all the supplies you’ll need.

Detect latent fingerprints

Forensic science is engrossing and can lead to important career opportunities too. Explore the chemistry needed to detect latent (invisible) fingerprints, just like they do for crime scenes!

Learn more: Fingerprints Project at Hub Pages

Use Alka-Seltzer to explore reaction rate

Difficulty: Easy / Materials: Easy

Tweak this basic concept to create a variety of high school chemistry science fair projects. Change the temperature, surface area, pressure, and more to see how reaction rates change.

Determine whether sports drinks provide more electrolytes than OJ

Are those pricey sports drinks really worth it? Try this experiment to find out. You’ll need some special equipment for this one; buy a complete kit at Home Science Tools .

Turn flames into a rainbow

You’ll need to get your hands on a few different chemicals for this experiment, but the wow factor will make it worth the effort! Make it a science project by seeing if different materials, air temperature, or other factors change the results.

Discover the size of a mole

The mole is a key concept in chemistry, so it’s important to ensure students really understand it. This experiment uses simple materials like salt and chalk to make an abstract concept more concrete. Make it a project by applying the same procedure to a variety of substances, or determining whether outside variables have an effect on the results.

Learn more: How Big Is a Mole? at Amy Brown Science

Cook up candy to learn mole and molecule calculations

This edible experiment lets students make their own peppermint hard candy while they calculate mass, moles, molecules, and formula weights. Tweak the formulas to create different types of candy and make this into a sweet science fair project!

Learn more: Candy Chemistry at Dunigan Science on TpT

Make soap to understand saponification

Take a closer look at an everyday item: soap! Use oils and other ingredients to make your own soap, learning about esters and saponification. Tinker with the formula to find one that fits a particular set of parameters.

Learn more: Saponification at Chemistry Solutions on TpT

Uncover the secrets of evaporation

Explore the factors that affect evaporation, then come up with ways to slow them down or speed them up for a simple science fair project.

Learn more: Evaporation at Science Projects

More Chemistry Science Fair Projects for High School

These questions and ideas can spark ideas for a unique experiment:

• Compare the properties of sugar and artificial sweeteners.
• Explore the impact of temperature, concentration, and seeding on crystal growth.
• Test various antacids on the market to find the most effective product.
• What is the optimum temperature for yeast production when baking bread from scratch?
• Compare the vitamin C content of various fruits and vegetables.
• How does temperature affect enzyme-catalyzed reactions?
• Investigate the effects of pH on an acid-base chemical reaction.
• Devise a new natural way to test pH levels (such as cabbage leaves).
• What’s the best way to slow down metal oxidation (the form of rust)?
• How do changes in ingredients and method affect the results of a baking recipe?

When you think of physics science projects for high school, the first thing that comes to mind is probably the classic build-a-bridge. But there are plenty of other ways for teens to get hands-on with physics concepts. Here are some to try.

Remove the air in a DIY vacuum chamber

You can use a vacuum chamber to do lots of cool high school science fair projects, but a ready-made one can be expensive. Try this project to make your own with basic supplies.

Learn more: Vacuum Chamber at Instructables

Put together a mini Tesla coil

Looking for a simple but showy high school science fair project? Build your own mini Tesla coil and wow the crowd!

Boil water in a paper cup

Logic tells us we shouldn’t set a paper cup over a heat source, right? Yet it’s actually possible to boil water in a paper cup without burning the cup up! Learn about heat transfer and thermal conductivity with this experiment. Go deeper by trying other liquids like honey to see what happens.

Build a better light bulb

Emulate Edison and build your own simple light bulb. You can turn this into a science fair project by experimenting with different types of materials for filaments.

Measure the speed of light—with your microwave

Grab an egg and head to your microwave for this surprisingly simple experiment. By measuring the distance between cooked portions of egg whites, you’ll be able to calculate the wavelength of the microwaves in your oven and, in turn, the speed of light.

Generate a Lichtenberg figure

See electricity in action when you generate and capture a Lichtenberg figure with polyethylene sheets, wood, or even acrylic and toner. Change the electrical intensity and materials to see what types of patterns you can create.

Learn more: Lichtenberg Figure at Science Notes

Explore the power of friction with sticky note pads

Difficulty: Medium / Materials: Basic

Ever try to pull a piece of paper out of the middle of a big stack? It’s harder than you think it would be! That’s due to the power of friction. In this experiment, students interleave the sheets of two sticky note pads, then measure how much weight it takes to pull them apart. The results are astonishing!

Build a cloud chamber to prove background radiation

Ready to dip your toe into particle physics? Learn about background radiation and build a cloud chamber to prove the existence of muons.

Measure the effect of temperature on resistance

This is a popular and classic science fair experiment in physics. You’ll need a few specialized supplies, but they’re pretty easy to find.

Learn more: Temperature and Resistance at Science Project

Launch the best bottle rocket

A basic bottle rocket is pretty easy to build, but it opens the door to lots of different science fair projects. Design a powerful launcher, alter the rocket so it flies higher or farther, or use only recycled materials for your flyer.

More Physics Science Fair Projects for High School

Design your own experiment in response to these questions and prompts.

• Determine the most efficient solar panel design and placement.
• What’s the best way to eliminate friction between two objects?
• Explore the best methods of insulating an object against heat loss.
• What effect does temperature have on batteries when stored for long periods of time?
• Test the effects of magnets or electromagnetic fields on plants or other living organisms.
• Determine the best angle and speed of a bat swing in baseball.
• What’s the best way to soundproof an area or reduce noise produced by an item?
• Explore methods for reducing air resistance in automotive design.
• Use the concepts of torque and rotation to perfect a golf swing.
• Compare the strength and durability of various building materials.

Many schools are changing up their science fairs to STEM fairs, to encourage students with an interest in engineering to participate. Many great engineering science fair projects start with a STEM challenge, like those shown here. Use these ideas to spark a full-blown project to build something new and amazing!

Construct a model maglev train

Maglev trains may just be the future of mass transportation. Build a model at home, and explore ways to implement the technology on a wider basis.

Learn more: Maglev Model Train at Supermagnete

Design a more efficient wind turbine

Wind energy is renewable, making it a good solution for the fossil fuel problem. For a smart science fair project, experiment to find the most efficient wind turbine design for a given situation.

Re-create Da Vinci’s flying machine

Da Vinci sketched several models of “flying machines” and hoped to soar through the sky. Do some research into his models and try to reconstruct one of your own.

Learn more: Da Vinci Flying Machine at Student Savvy

Design a heart-rate monitor

Smartwatches are ubiquitous these days, so pretty much anyone can wear a heart-rate monitor on their wrist. But do they work any better than one you can build yourself? Get the specialized items you need like the Arduino LilyPad Board on Amazon.

Race 3D printed cars

3D printers are a marvel of the modern era, and budding engineers should definitely learn to use them. Use Tinkercad or a similar program to design and print race cars that can support a defined weight, then see which can roll the fastest! (No 3D printer in your STEM lab? Check the local library. Many of them have 3D printers available for patrons to use.)

Learn more: 3D Printed Cars at Instructables

Grow veggies in a hydroponic garden

Hydroponics is the gardening wave of the future, making it easy to grow plants anywhere with minimal soil required. For a science fair STEM engineering challenge, design and construct your own hydroponic garden capable of growing vegetables to feed a family. This model is just one possible option.

Learn more: Hydroponics at Instructables

Grab items with a mechanical claw

Delve into robotics with this engineering project. This kit includes all the materials you need, with complete video instructions. Once you’ve built the basic structure, tinker around with the design to improve its strength, accuracy, or other traits.

Learn more: Hydraulic Claw at KiwiCo

Construct a crystal radio

Return to the good old days and build a radio from scratch. This makes a cool science fair project if you experiment with different types of materials for the antenna. It takes some specialized equipment, but fortunately, Home Science Tools has an all-in-one kit for this project.

Learn more: Crystal Radio at Scitoys.com

Build a burglar alarm

The challenge? Set up a system to alert you when someone has broken into your house or classroom. This can take any form students can dream up, and you can customize this STEM high school science experiment for multiple skill levels. Keep it simple with an alarm that makes a sound that can be heard from a specified distance. Or kick it up a notch and require the alarm system to send a notification to a cell phone, like the project at the link.

Learn more: Intruder Alarm at Instructables

Walk across a plastic bottle bridge

Balsa wood bridges are OK, but this plastic bottle bridge is really impressive! In fact, students can build all sorts of structures using the concept detailed at the link. It’s the ultimate upcycled STEM challenge!

Learn more: TrussFab Structures at Instructables

Looking for more science content? Check out the Best Science Websites for Middle and High School .

Plus, get all the latest teaching tips and tricks when you sign up for our newsletters .

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A high school student’s paper on the Mexican repatriation could lead to a new statue in L.A.

As her junior year of high school came to a close in 2023, Tamara Gisiger’s history teacher tasked the class with a research project of their choosing.

A then-17-year-old Gisiger narrowed in on what she called an “underground, hurtful and dark part of history that just isn’t talked about” — the  Mexican repatriation  that took place in the 1930s amid the Great Depression.

The repatriation involved deporting 1 million people with Mexican heritage, 60% of whom were American-born citizens, and was one of the largest deportations in American history, according to Gisiger, who lives in New York City.

The epicenter was Los Angeles, where up to 75,000 Mexican immigrants and Mexican Americans were deported by train — often at Union Station — in one year, Gisiger, now 19, said in a phone interview, reciting the dates and numbers off the top of her head.

Read more here . 

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