# SCAS Research Training Program

Academic-year mentored research program pairing Southern California high schoolers with doctoral-level scientists: students run an original project, submit a manuscript, and present a poster at the SCAS Annual Meeting in May.

## Key facts

| Field | Value |
| --- | --- |
| Organization | Southern California Academy of Sciences |
| Category | stem |
| Cost | Not listed |
| Deadline | Rolling / check official site |
| Eligibility | Grades 9–12 |
| Format | In person |
| Location | Los Angeles, CA |
| Apply | https://scas.nhm.org/research-training-program |

## About this program

# SCAS Research Training Program

The Research Training Program (RTP) of the Southern California Academy of Sciences pairs enthusiastic STEM high school students with working scientists for a full academic year of original research. Projects are open to all disciplines of science and engineering, and students work under the guidance of a doctoral-level research mentor in a professional laboratory or field setting.

## What You'll Do

- Conduct an original research project during the school year under a doctoral-level mentor (the 2026-27 cycle formally begins at the end of July 2026)
- Submit four 300-word progress reports across the year and attend at least three of four skill-building workshops
- Prepare a written scientific manuscript that is judged by Academy scientists
- Present your research poster at the SCAS Annual Meeting (May 2027 at Pomona College) alongside college students and professional researchers

## Who Should Apply

Students entering grades 9-12 who attend Southern California high schools (applicants from throughout California are considered, since SCAS is the state's only member of the National Association of Academies of Science). Applications for the 2026-27 cohort were due June 30, 2026; the cycle typically reopens each spring.

## Outcomes

RTP students complete a genuine year-long research arc - mentored experimentation, manuscript, and juried poster presentation. Top presenters can be selected as California's delegates to the American Junior Academy of Science national meeting, held with the AAAS Annual Meeting in Chicago.

## Frequently asked questions

### Who is eligible for SCAS Research Training Program?

SCAS Research Training Program is open to high school students in grades 9–12. Some programs have additional requirements (GPA, coursework, essays, or recommendations) — the full criteria are on the official site.

### Is SCAS Research Training Program online or in person?

SCAS Research Training Program is an in-person program based in Los Angeles, CA.

### How do I apply to SCAS Research Training Program?

Apply directly through Southern California Academy of Sciences's official website. ExtracurricularHub links to the official application — we list and verify programs but don't process applications.

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Last updated: 2026-07-28.
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