RSI is the first cost-free summer science and engineering program to combine on-campus coursework in scientific theory with off-campus work in science and technology research, offering an unparalleled opportunity for high school students to conduct original research at a graduate level.
MIT's Research Science Institute (RSI) is a prestigious six-week, cost-free summer program for high school students, collaboratively sponsored by the Center for Excellence in Education (CEE) and hosted at MIT. The program brings together approximately 100 top STEM students globally to engage in intensive scientific research. Participants spend the first week in advanced STEM classes and seminars led by accomplished professors. The core of the program involves a five-week research internship where students conduct individual projects under the guidance of experienced mentors, often graduate students, postdoctoral researchers, or faculty from MIT, Harvard, and other local universities. Students gain hands-on experience in real research labs, utilizing university-grade equipment and data. The program culminates in the preparation of written academic papers and conference-style oral presentations of their research findings to peers and a panel of judges. RSI aims to inspire and prepare students for careers of excellence and leadership in STEM fields.
A typical day involves attending intensive STEM classes and seminars during the first week, followed by four to five weeks of conducting individual research projects in university labs under the guidance of a mentor, and finally, preparing written and oral presentations of their findings.
This program is best for highly talented and motivated high school juniors with exceptional achievement in STEM who are ready to conduct original, publishable research.
MIT, Cambridge, MA
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