Research Scholar Program for High School Students at Stony Brook University 2026

This is a seven-week intensive program for exceptional high school students that mixes formal education with independent research and allows them to construct their own research projects with the help of Garcia Center teachers, students, and staff. Students can continue to participate in the Mentor Program throughout the academic year, allowing them to establish a research program with a faculty mentor. To enable students from a wide geographical region to enroll in the program, pre-arranged transportation and lesson schedules are negotiated with local school boards. Since its beginning, about 300 high school students have participated in the mentor program.

The Research Scholar Program for High School Students allows high school instructors and students to do research on the cutting edge of polymer science and technology with Garcia academics and staff. Students are trained to work in focused research teams and to create novel contributions of relevance to the scientific community. Students are encouraged to publish in refereed scientific publications and discuss their findings at national conferences, in addition to competing in national contests. Our objective is to transmit to students the enthusiasm we have on a daily basis when conducting research. The program has no time constraints. We aspire to be a resource to our students long after they have “graduated” from research.

Requirements for Summer 2023 High School applicants:

All students must be, at least 16 years old on, or before July 4, 2023, no exceptions.
Have an unweighted GPA of 95/100 (3.8/4.0)
Must have at least 3 of the following subjects:
English (Honors or AP a plus)
Chemistry (Honors or AP a plus)
Mathematics or Calculus (Honors or AP a plus)
Physics (Honors or AP a plus)
Biology (optional) (Honors or AP a plus)
Standardized test scores (SAT/ACT and/or Regents) must be 60% or above.
- Students who show evidence of leadership, special talents or interests, and other personal qualities through extracurricular activities, volunteer work, and other non-academic pursuits will receive special consideration.

Along with the application form you MUST send (or have submitted):

Transcript of grades (typically sent by your school)
Three letters of recommendation, with one being from your Science Coordinator/Teacher. Please use the Teacher Recommendation Letter Coversheet.
Recommendation letter and coversheet must be included with the application in sealed envelopes.
Non-Refundable $50 Registration fee – Payable by check or wire transfer
- Please make checks payable to “SUNY Stony Brook”, or include wire transfer receipt in your application package. (Details for wire transfers can be found in the below application form)