# Janelia High School Internships The Janelia High School Internships program, hosted by the HHMI Janelia Research Campus, offers an exceptional opportunity for rising high school juniors and seniors (grades 11-12) to immerse themselves in cutting-edge scientific research. This paid summer internship focuses on neuroscience, microscopy, and computational biology, providing students with hands-on experience at one of the world’s leading research institutions. It is a chance to explore STEM fields deeply while contributing to real-world projects under the guidance of accomplished scientists. ## Program Structure This program is conducted **in-person** at the HHMI Janelia Research Campus in the USA, ensuring participants have full access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources. Internships typically take place during the summer and run for several weeks, allowing students to fully engage in their project work. Interns are paired with mentors who are scientists and researchers at Janelia. Students will participate in structured lab work, attend lectures and workshops, and contribute to meaningful research projects. The program is **free of charge**, and students receive a stipend for their participation, making it an accessible and valuable opportunity. ## What Students Experience Participants gain firsthand exposure to the scientific process through activities such as designing experiments, analyzing data, and using advanced imaging and microscopy techniques. They also have the chance to work on computational biology problems, including modeling and data interpretation. Beyond technical skills, students benefit from mentorship provided by Janelia researchers, who offer guidance on project work and insights into careers in STEM. Interns often collaborate with peers, fostering teamwork and communication skills while building connections with other aspiring scientists. By the end of the internship, students are expected to present their findings, which helps hone their presentation skills and confidence in sharing scientific work. ## Why It Matters for College Applications Participating in the Janelia High School Internships program demonstrates a commitment to academic and extracurricular excellence in STEM fields. Students can highlight their hands-on research experience, technical skills, and collaborative projects in their college applications. This program provides an opportunity to showcase how students have engaged with complex scientific concepts and contributed to innovative research. Such experiences often stand out to admissions committees, especially for those applying to programs in neuroscience, biology, computational sciences, or related disciplines. ## Eligibility To apply, students must be in **grades 11-12** at the time of application and demonstrate a strong interest in STEM, particularly neuroscience, microscopy, and computational biology. While specific prerequisites may vary, applicants should have a solid foundation in science and mathematics, as well as curiosity and enthusiasm for research. Applicants must also be able to attend the program in person at the HHMI Janelia Research Campus, located in the USA. ## How to Participate Students interested in the Janelia High School Internships program should carefully review the application process on the HHMI Janelia Research Campus website. The application typically involves submitting academic records, a personal statement, and possibly letters of recommendation. Deadlines and specific requirements can vary, so it is crucial to plan ahead and check the website for updates. For more information about the program and application details, visit the official [HHMI Janelia Research Campus](https://www.janelia.org) website.