Exploring the life sciences through hands-on experiences can be one of the most rewarding steps for a high school student. Biology summer internships allow you to apply classroom knowledge in research settings, gain mentorship from professionals, and boost your college applications with real-world accomplishments.
This guide features 13 of the most impactful and accessible biology summer internships in the USA for high school students.
Why Apply to Biology Summer Internships in High School?
Participating in a biology summer internship offers:
- Real Research Experience: Work alongside scientists in labs or field settings
- Skill Development: Learn lab techniques, data analysis, and scientific writing
- Career Exploration: Get a feel for careers in biotech, medicine, and environmental science
- College Readiness: Strengthen your profile for STEM-focused university programs
nternship Comparison Table
| Program Name | Focus Area | Location | Duration | Eligibility | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stanford SIMR | Biomedical Research | Stanford, CA | 8 weeks | Rising seniors (16+) | Feb 24, 2025 |
| NIH HS-SIP | Biomedical Research | NIH Campuses | 8 weeks | Juniors & seniors (17+) | Feb 1, 2025 |
| Monell Science Apprenticeship | Biomedical Science | Philadelphia, PA | 8 weeks | Local students (Philly area) | Rolling |
| Student Conservation Association (SCA) | Ecology & Conservation | Nationwide | 2–5 weeks | Ages 15–19 | Rolling |
| SUNY Oneonta Summer Research | Environmental Biology | Oneonta, NY | 9 weeks | NY students (16+) | Apr 12, 2025 |
| Hutton Fisheries Biology Program | Aquatic Biology | Nationwide | 8 weeks | Underrepresented students | Spring 2025 |
| Wave Hill Youth Internships | Environmental Science | Bronx, NY | Varies | High school students | Rolling |
| Biotech Partners Academy | Biotechnology | Berkeley, CA | 6–8 weeks | Partner school students | Rolling |
| Ladder Virtual Internships | Biomedical & Biotech | Virtual | 8 weeks | Global high schoolers | Apr 14, 2025 |
| City of Hope Summer Student Academy | Cancer Research | Duarte, CA | 10 weeks | Students 16+ | Mar 12, 2025 |
Top Biology Summer Internships for High School Students
1. Stanford Institutes of Medicine Summer Research Program (SIMR)
One of the most prestigious biology summer internships, SIMR places students in Stanford research labs to work alongside medical and life sciences faculty.
- Location: Stanford, CA
- Duration: 8 weeks
- Eligibility: Rising seniors (must be 16+)
- Stipend: $500–$2,500
2. NIH High School Summer Internship Program (HS-SIP)
Work full-time in biomedical or behavioral research with NIH mentors across multiple campuses.
- Location: NIH campuses in MD, NC, and others
- Duration: 8 weeks
- Eligibility: High school juniors/seniors (must be 17+)
3. Monell Science Apprenticeship Program
Offers research experience in sensory and biomedical science for students in the Philadelphia area.
- Location: Philadelphia, PA
- Eligibility: Local students with interest in biomedical research
4. Student Conservation Association (SCA) National Crews
A hands-on opportunity for students interested in ecology, wildlife, or conservation biology.
- Location: National parks and forests nationwide
- Duration: 2–5 weeks
- Eligibility: Ages 15–19
5. SUNY Oneonta Summer Research Internship
Provides mentorship in environmental and ecological research with SUNY professors.
- Location: Oneonta, NY
Eligibility: New York residents, 16+
6. Hutton Junior Fisheries Biology Program
Designed to introduce underrepresented students to fisheries science and biology careers.
- Location: Multiple U.S. locations
- Eligibility: High school students with interest in aquatic biology
7. Wave Hill Youth Internship
Environmental science and ecology-based internships offered to NYC students.
- Location: Bronx, NY
- Eligibility: High school students with a strong interest in environmental biology
8. Biotech Academy (Biotech Partners)
Interns work in biotech labs and companies to develop workplace and lab skills.
- Location: Berkeley, CA
- Eligibility: Students in Biotech Partners’ school programs
9. Ladder Virtual Biology Internships
Students are placed with global startups in biomedical and health science fields.
- Location: Virtual
- Eligibility: High schoolers globally; must commit 10–20 hours/week
10. City of Hope Summer Student Academy
Conduct research at a top cancer center in California alongside faculty.
- Location: Duarte, CA
- Duration: 10 weeks
Eligibility: High school students 16+
Need Guidance Finding the Right Biology Summer Internship?
Ascend Now offers personalized 1-on-1 college counseling to help high school students:
- Discover the right-fit biology summer internships
- Build a tailored academic and extracurricular roadmap
- Prepare competitive applications and essays
- Receive ongoing support from Ivy League mentors
👉 Explore Ascend Now College Counseling
By participating in these prestigious biology summer internships, high school students gain a head start in STEM, build strong mentorships, and clarify their future academic and career goals. Start your applications early and don’t hesitate to seek expert guidance through programs like Ascend Now.
