Science Education Department

Research Training Program for High School Students

High school students wearing lab coats and smiling for a group photo

Applications Opening Soon

Applications for Summer 2023 will open in February. Please visit this page again for updated information.

About the 2023 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 2023, 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.

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.
The Virtual Research Training Program (VRTP) is an online program with a competitive application process, and is open to local, national and international students.

	Research Training Program (RTP)	Virtual Research Training Program (VRTP)
Format	In-person	Online
Duration	3 weeks	1 week
Schedule	Pending	Pending
Activities	In-person activities include: Lectures and hands-on lab activities on biochemistry, immunology and global and public health College and career workshops Facility tours Final presentations	Online activities include: Lectures and lab demonstrations on biochemistry, immunology and global and public health College and career discussions Optional office hours with scientists Optional discussions (small groups) with fellow students, moderated by staff
Eligibility Criteria	The RTP is open to: Current 10th grade (rising junior), 11th grade (rising senior) or 12th grade (graduating senior) high school students who have not yet applied to college Local students who live or have housing within a two-hour commute of downtown Seattle Students who identify as underrepresented in the field of biomedical research*	The VRTP is open to: Current 10th grade (rising junior), 11th grade (rising senior) or 12th grade (graduating senior) high school students who have not yet applied to college Local, national and international students
How to Participate	The application process will include: Application form An essay A letter of recommendation	The application process will include: Application form An essay

* 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

Application form

Applications for Summer 2023 will open in February. Please visit this page again for updated information.

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.
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 2023.