UC San Diego: Research Scholars

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UC San Diego’s Research Scholars programs offer motivated students immersive experiences in bioengineering, business innovation, marine science, ecology, and more. Through hands-on research, real-world problem-solving, and expert mentorship, students build critical thinking, leadership, and research skills—preparing for college, careers, and a future driven by innovation.

Dive into unique science research learning experiences that teach highly sought-after skills that can make students more competitive candidates for college admissions and internships.

Summer Program Offerings:

ARIZONA: BIOSEPHERE 2

Experience an immersive program at Biosphere 2 in Arizona, where you’ll take part in hands-on research focused on climate change, ecology, and conservation—building skills, discovering career paths, and deepening your commitment to environmental stewardship.

BIOENGINEERING

In partnership with the UC San Diego Department of Bioengineering, our programs provide a progressive series of hands^aEUR'on courses offering high school students experiential lab-based learning in areas such as cell culture, bioimaging, 3D printing, and biomedical research.

BUSINESS RESEARCH

Through a combination of discussions, real-life venture case studies, and venture simulations developed at the top universities, this course prepares students for careers and advanced education in business, entrepreneurship, and management with a solid grounding in fundamentals. Students immerse themselves in the topics of business innovation, venture financing, and growth strategy. Simulations provide experience in the dynamics of a business venture and the challenges of raising money, leading an organization, ad building wealth for founders and stakeholders.

HAWAII

Embark on a 10-day immersion on O’ahu that blends traditional Hawaiian ecological knowledge with modern marine science to build leadership and environmental stewardship skills.

INSTITUTE OF ENGINEERING

Developed in collaboration with faculty from the UC San Diego Institute of Engineering in Medicine, these programs give high school students an exciting opportunity to experience real scientific discovery. Students will see how groundbreaking research is turned into innovative technologies and treatments that improve lives. Designed to inspire the next generation of scientists and engineers, these hands-on programs help students build skills, confidence, and a deeper understanding of how science transforms health and well-being.

LIFE SCIENCES

In partnership with the Boz Institute, explore fundamental biology topics, modern laboratory techniques, and relevant bioinformatics and statistical applications. Learn to synthesize life science fundamentals, review literature, formulate hypotheses and design experiments, collect and process samples, execute experiments, analyze data, and showcase your work through poster presentations attended by local scientists and industry leaders. 

MARINE SCIENCE

Gain foundational knowledge in ocean sciences, specifically marine biology and related disciplines. Explore the diversity of life and how biological, chemical, and physical processes drive ecosystem dynamics in a marine environment. Investigate relevant, contemporary environmental issues and how to build a career in marine science.

PUERTO RICO

Immerse yourself in Puerto Rico’s vibrant coastal and marine ecosystems through hands-on research, conservation training, and field exploration. This intensive program blends classroom learning with real-world experience in marine biology, restoration, and sustainable resource management—equipping students with the skills to protect and sustain tropical environments. 

SPORTS MEDICINE

Designed with faculty from the UC San Diego School of Medicine, students can explore exciting fields of medicine. The Sports Medicine Summer Academy is an interactive, intensive summer course designed for incoming 11th- and 12th-grade students interested in musculoskeletal medicine. This course familiarizes students with the focus, concepts, content, and activities of the area of clinical medicine called Sports Medicine. Students will actively participate in lectures led by nationally acclaimed faculty, explore current research in sports medicine, and assess their own wellness and fitness through the use of wearable technology.