Research Training Program for High School Students

Applications Closed

Applications for Summer 2022 closed on Sunday, April 3, 2022, 11:59 p.m., Pacific time. Please visit this page in early 2023 for information about programs in Summer 2023.

About the 2022 Summer Programs

Seattle Children’s Research Institute is committed to building an inclusive and diverse workforce, and inspiring the next generation of scientists, physicians and healthcare workers. During the summer, our Science Education Department offers high school students the opportunity to learn more about biomedical research.

For summer 2022, we are offering two programs led by PhD-level scientists and educators. Students will learn how to work in a research laboratory environment and learn about topics including biochemistry, immunotherapy, gene editing and infectious diseases. Students will also participate in workshops on college readiness and career exploration. These programs provide students with a solid foundation for a future career in biomedical research. There is no cost to participate.

1. The Research Training Program (RTP) is an in-person program with a competitive application process for students from groups that are underrepresented in biomedical research. This program is intended for local students who live within a two-hour commute of downtown Seattle. Stipends are available to offset costs for transportation and meals. We do not provide or arrange housing for students.
2. The Virtual Research Training Program (VRTP) is an online program with a competitive application process, and is open to local, national and international students.

* You may be underrepresented if you identify with one of the following statements:

• I belong to a racial or ethnic group that is underrepresented in biomedical research.
  • Examples include but are not limited to: Black or African American, Hispanic or Latinx, American Indian or Alaska Native or Indigenous, Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islander.
• I identify as a member of the LGBTQIA+ community.
• I have a disadvantaged background. For example:
  • I was/am in the foster care system and/or experience(d) homelessness.
  • I was/am eligible for the Federal Free and Reduced Lunch Program.
  • I had/have no parents or legal guardians who completed a bachelor’s degree.
  • I grew up/live in a rural area.
  • I experienced other factors that may be considered.

Important Notes

• The health and safety of our staff, students and families are of the highest importance. We are continuing to rely on the guidance and expertise of public health agencies regarding the safety and feasibility of in-person programs. If the in-person RTP is cancelled, students will be offered the opportunity to participate in the online VRTP.
• We cannot allow students to participate in both the in-person RTP and online VRTP.
• The RTP and VRTP are best suited for students interested in laboratory research.
  • However, if you are interested in volunteer or clinical positions at Seattle Children's Hospital, please visit High School and Youth Service Projects or Summer Nurse Camp.

How to Participate

Request form

Upon submitting the request form, you will be emailed instructions to complete the application form for the program you have selected.

• Students will choose to apply for either the in-person RTP or the online VRTP. Students may not apply for both the RTP and VRTP. Duplicate forms will not be accepted.
• For the online VRTP, students may choose one of two identical sessions:
  • Session 1
  • Session 2
  • Either Session 1 or 2
• Students who are not accepted for the in-person RTP may have the opportunity to participate in the online VRTP if capacity allows. Further information will be made available in May 2022.

We have limited capacity for the RTP and VRTP. Successful applicants should provide a thoughtful application essay that addresses all of the following topics in the relevant sections below.

RTP application essay

Please respond to the following questions in 1-2 pages. Please use double-spacing, 1-inch margins and 12-point font, and write your first and last name at the top of the first page. 

1. Seattle Children’s is committed to building an inclusive and diverse environment with people from different backgrounds with varying experiences and perspectives. Describe the community you come from, which can include your family, culture, etc., and how you might contribute to diversity at Seattle Children’s.
2. Describe any previous work or volunteer experience, and skills you gained that are applicable to this program.
3. What are your college goals and what do you intend to study? If you have not decided yet, please include the subject area (biology, chemistry, etc.) that you would like to focus on.
4. What are your career goals? Where do you see yourself in ten years?
5. Only if you have previously participated in the 2020 or 2021 VRTP: How will participating in this program build upon your previous experience to support your academic and professional goals?

For the in-person RTP only, applicants are required to provide one letter of recommendation from a teacher, counselor or other professional, explaining why they think you would be a good fit for this program.

• Once you submit the request form, your letter writer will receive an email with instructions on how to submit a letter of recommendation.
• Helpful tip! We strongly suggest that you ask your letter writer early and give them enough time to write you a proper letter.

VRTP application essay

Please respond to the following questions in 2-3 paragraphs. Please use double-spacing, 1-inch margins and 12-point font, and write your first and last name at the top of the page. 

1. How will participating in the Virtual Research Training Program support your academic and professional goals?
2. What are your college goals and what do you intend to study? If you have not decided yet, please include the subject area (biology, chemistry, etc.) that you would like to focus on.
3. Only if you have previously participated in the 2020 or 2021 VRTP: How will participating in this program build upon your previous experience?

Information sessions

We will host a 30-minute information session for prospective students to get answers to questions about applying for the RTP and VRTP. Participation in this session will not affect your application status.

• The information session on March 2 was recorded for off-schedule viewing. View the recording.

April 3: Applications close

Applications will close on Sunday, April 3, 2022, 11:59 p.m., Pacific time.

May 2022: Students notified

Students will be notified of their application status in early May 2022.

To learn more, please email the Science Education Department.

Thank you for your interest in the Research Training Program at Seattle Children’s Research Institute!

This page was last updated on April 4, 2022.