15 Summer Research Programs for High School Students in Illinois
If you’re a high school student curious about science, technology, or research, summer is the best time to explore your interests outside the classroom. Many universities, laboratories, and medical centers across the country offer research programs designed just for high school students. These programs let you step into real labs, work with experts, and practice skills that go far beyond what you learn in school. From biology and engineering to computer science and economics, there are opportunities in almost every field.
Taking part in a summer research program not only helps you discover new subjects but also gives you valuable experience for college and future careers. You can learn how to design experiments, analyze data, work with a team, and present your findings. Some programs even offer stipends, scholarships, or certificates that strengthen your college applications.
In this blog, we will look at 15 summer research programs for high school students in Illinois that can help you build skills, explore your passions, and take your first steps into the world of research.
15 Summer Research Programs for High School Students in Illinois
1. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign Young Scholars Summer STEMM Research
Location: University of Illinois, Champaign County, IL
Cost/Stipend: No cost; Fellowship payment available
Application Deadline: March 24 (priority)
Program Dates: May 29 – August 1
Eligibility: Students entering grades 10-12 from Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Michigan, Missouri, Iowa, or Wisconsin
The Young Scholars Summer STEMM Research Program at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is a six-week program for high school students who want to explore science and medicine. You’ll work with university professors and research staff on real projects in areas like cancer research, brain science, and bioengineering. You’ll learn how to plan experiments, collect and study data, and share your results. The program is open to students from many backgrounds and encourages those who are underrepresented in science to apply. You’ll receive guidance from experienced mentors, work in teams, and practice essential skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and clear communication. By the end, you will know more about science and have experience that can help you in college and future jobs.
2. Ladder Internship Program
Location: Remote! You can work from anywhere in the world.
Cost: Varies; Financial aid available
Application Deadline: Deadlines vary depending on the cohort
Program Dates: Multiple cohorts throughout the year
Eligibility: High school students
Ladder Internships is a selective startup internship program designed for motivated high school students. During the program, you will have the opportunity to work with a high-growth startup that is, on average, raising over one million dollars as part of your internship experience. These startups offer internships that span a variety of industries, including technology, deep tech, AI/ML, health tech, marketing, journalism, consulting, and more. As an intern, you will spend around eight weeks collaborating closely with your managers and a Ladder Coach on real-world projects. You’ll also get to present your work to the company by the end of the internship. You can apply here!
3. University of Illinois: Summer Science Internship Program
Location: University of Illinois College of Medicine Rockford, Rockford, IL
Cost/Stipend: No cost; Stipend sponsored by Thermo Fisher Scientific
Application Deadline: April 1
Program Dates: June 9 – August 1
Eligibility: High school students must be 16 by May 1
The Summer Science Internship Program is a two-month research experience in biomedical sciences. It gives you the chance to work with research scientists in areas like cancer biology, vaccine development, and pharmacology. You’ll also learn how to follow lab procedures, collect and study data, and write about your findings. The program starts with an orientation and lab training, followed by workshops focused on resume development and interview preparation. By the end, you’ll be expected to present your research at the Summer Science Forum, using both an oral talk and a poster.
4. Lumiere Research Scholar Program
Location: Remote
Cost: Varies; Financial aid available
Application Deadline: Varies by cohort
Program Dates: Multiple 12-week cohorts throughout the year
Eligibility: High school students with an unweighted GPA of 3.3 out of 4
The Lumiere Research Scholar Program provides comprehensive one-on-one research opportunities for high school students. As a participant, you will be matched with distinguished Ph.D. mentors to collaborate closely on an independent research project. You can choose topics from fields like psychology, physics, economics, data science, computer science, engineering, chemistry, international relations, and more. Upon completing the 12-week program, you will have developed a research paper. If interested, you can apply here!
5. UChicago Medicine’s ResearcHStart
Location: University of Chicago Medical Center, Chicago, IL
Stipend: Taxable $3,000
Application Deadline: Applications typically close in January
Program Dates: 8 weeks from June to August
Eligibility: High school juniors or seniors (16+) who residents of Illinois or Lake County, Indiana
The ResearcHStart program at UChicago Medicine gives high school students a chance to work on cancer research with experienced scientists. During the summer, you’ll spend time in real labs where you’ll learn how to use research tools, run experiments, and study results. You’ll also learn how to read scientific papers and keep detailed records of your work. You’ll receive guidance from mentors who will teach you how to ask good questions, solve problems, and think carefully about your findings. By the end of the program, you will have stronger research, communication, and teamwork skills.
6. Fermilab Program for Research, Innovation, and STEM Mentorship (PRISM)
Location: Fermilab, Batavia, IL (Hybrid of on-site and off-site work)
Cost: $500 per week
Application Deadline: January 13 – March 1
Program Dates: July 13 – August 7
Eligibility: High school sophomores, juniors, and seniors attending an Illinois high school with U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status
The Fermilab Program for Research, Innovation, and STEM Mentorship (PRISM) is a four-week summer program for high school seniors and recent graduates. During the program, you’ll learn about topics like particle physics, quantum science, engineering design, and artificial intelligence. You’ll also take part in hands-on activities, listen to talks from experts, and visit Fermilab’s research facilities. Each week, you will focus on a new science topic, which helps you understand different STEM career paths. You’ll receive guidance from mentors, learn how to work on projects, improve your problem-solving skills, and prepare for college or future jobs in science and technology. You’ll also become part of a network of people who share your interest in STEM.
7. Illinois Tech: Elevate College Prep
Location: Virtual or in-person at Illinois Institute of Technology, Chicago, IL
Cost: Overnight: $1,500 – $3,000; Daytime: $500 – $650; Virtual: $300 – $375; Need-based financial aid is available
Program Dates: Depends on the type of program
Application Deadline: May 1
Eligibility: Rising 9th-12th graders
Illinois Tech’s Elevate College Prep summer research programs allow high school students to learn about coding, robotics, sustainability, and human sciences. As a participant, you’ll take part in activities led by Illinois Tech faculty and industry experts, where you’ll practice skills like programming, designing projects, and solving problems. You’ll also build teamwork and communication skills while connecting with peers and current students. By the end of the program, you’ll receive a Certificate of Completion to support your college applications and may qualify for a $500 Edge Award scholarship toward Illinois Tech’s undergraduate tuition.
8. UChicago’s Research in Biological Sciences (RIBS)
Location: University of Chicago, Chicago, IL
Cost: $14,490; Need-based financial aid available
Application Deadline: May 8 (rolling)
Program Dates: June 14 – July 12
Eligibility: Current 10th or 11th-grade students
The University of Chicago’s Research in the Biological Sciences (RIBS) program is a four-week course that gives students the chance to explore biology through real lab work. It is for those who already have a strong background in biology, chemistry, and math. As a participant, you’ll learn how to use molecular, microbiology, and cell biology techniques that scientists use in current research. You’ll start by learning basic lab skills like measuring, preparing samples, and using lab equipment. Then you’ll move on to advanced methods in genetics, developmental biology, and cancer research. Along the way, you’ll attend lectures, work in the lab, and join seminars with UChicago faculty. Living on campus helps you connect with other students and experience what it is like to be part of a research community.
9. Discovery Partners Institute (DPI): Digital Scholars Program
Location: DPI office, Chicago, IL
Cost/Stipend: None
Application Deadline: February 28 – May 2
Program Dates: June 23 – August 1
Eligibility: Current 10th and 11th graders preferred
The DPI Digital Scholars program gives high school students a chance to work on real projects with university researchers and industry experts. You can choose to explore subjects like artificial intelligence, sustainability, computer science, data science, electrical engineering, or mobile app development. You’ll also learn how to use technology tools, solve problems, and create practical solutions. The program helps you build skills for college and future jobs, such as coding, data analysis, teamwork, and clear communication. Along the way, you’ll meet professionals through guest talks and workshops, giving you a better understanding of how the tech industry works and what career paths you can follow.
10. Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP) at the Department of the Navy (DoN)
Location: Several lab locations to choose from across the country
Stipend: $4,000 (new participants); $4,500 (returning participants)
Application Deadline: August 1 – November 1
Program Dates: 8 weeks; Exact dates not specified.
Eligibility: Rising 9th graders to graduating 12th graders (16+) who are U.S. citizens
The Science and Engineering Apprenticeship Program (SEAP) is an eight-week summer program where high school students work in Department of the Navy laboratories on real naval research. It is a research-focused opportunity that gives you direct experience in STEM. You will be selected based on your grades, personal statement, recommendations, and research interests, and will be matched with a lab aligned with the subject area you are most passionate about. There, you will learn skills like data analysis, lab techniques, problem-solving, and research communication while being mentored by Navy scientists and engineers. SEAP is competitive, with about 300 placements in more than 38 labs across the country.
11. Rush Education and Career Hub: MedSTEM Explorers
Location: Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL
Stipend: Paid
Application Deadline: December 8 – February 27
Program Dates: June 22 – July 31
Eligibility: Rising high school sophomores and juniors residing in Chicago with a minimum weighted GPA of 2.5 and an 80% attendance record
Rush University Medical Center’s six-week paid research program gives rising high school sophomores and juniors a chance to explore careers in STEM and healthcare. As a MedSTEM Explorer, you will take part in workshops, research projects, and discussions with professionals. You will practice skills like critical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving to prepare for college and future careers. You will also receive healthcare training, build connections with mentors, and can earn first aid and CPR certifications. Students who complete the program may qualify for the MedSTEM Pathways internship.
12. DSI Summer Lab
Location: Ryerson Laboratory, UChicago Hyde Park Campus
Stipend: $5,600
Application Deadline: January 12
Program Dates: June 16 – August 8
Eligibility: High school students; Familiarity with at least one programming language and relevant coursework (e.g., computer science, statistics, math) is preferred
The DSI Summer Lab at the University of Chicago is an eight-week research program in applied data science. During the program, you will be paired with a mentor and given a research project in areas like social science, computer science, energy and climate policy, biomedical science, or public policy. You will learn skills like programming, statistical modeling, and machine learning while working on real research. You’ll also practice analyzing data, working in a team, and explaining complex results in a simple way. By the end of the program, you’ll create a professional video presentation of your project to share your work and get feedback from peers and faculty.
13. Exemplary Student Research Program
Location: Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL
Cost: Free
Application Deadline: Not specified
Program Dates: School-year-long program starting in the summer
Eligibility: High school students and science teachers with a valid state teaching certificate for grades 9-12
The Exemplary Student Research Program (ESRP) lets high school students and teachers work together on scientific research at Argonne National Laboratory. As a participant, you’ll get to use advanced facilities like the Advanced Photon Source and the Center for Nanoscale Materials to carry out experiments. The program starts in the summer and continues during the school year, combining classroom learning with lab work. You’ll join a team led by your science teacher and work with an Argonne scientist to create a research plan, collect and study data, and explain your results. You’ll also visit Argonne at least twice; once to collect data and then again to give your final presentation at a symposium.
14. Argonne National Laboratory’s College Bound Research Program
Location: Argonne National Laboratory, Lemont, IL
Stipend: $500 per week
Application Deadline: Spring (tentative)
Program Dates: June 9 – August 1
Eligibility: High school seniors (18+) with a minimum GPA of 3.75 on a 4.0 scale
Argonne National Laboratory’s College Bound Research Program gives high school students the chance to work full-time in a lab or office with guidance from scientists and engineers. You will get to do work in areas like advanced computing, energy, discovery science, global security, accelerator systems, biosciences, and chemical sciences. You’ll also learn to work with advanced tools and facilities while helping with ongoing research. Along the way, you’ll develop skills like using lab equipment, analyzing data, solving problems, and working in a professional setting. This experience can strengthen your college and job applications.
15. UCSD’s Research Scholars
Location: Virtual
Cost: Varies
Application Deadline: Varies, depending on the subject
Program Dates: Varies based on subject
Eligibility: High school students in grades 9-12
UC San Diego’s Research Scholars Program lets high school students take part in university-level research in areas like bioengineering, marine science, and sports medicine. As a participant, you’ll gain experience by doing hands-on projects and applying what you learn to real-world problems. The program is offered online, in person, or in a hybrid format. You’ll practice skills like critical thinking, teamwork, and research methods while working with professionals. You’ll also join an environmental program in Hawaii or choose online tracks in business and life sciences to explore advanced topics connected to global challenges.
Image Source - University of Illinois Logo