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Mentored Research

Conduct University-level Research in High School

The Launch High School Research Program is a prestigious initiative providing talented students with the unparalleled opportunity to work one-on-one with accomplished researchers from top-tier universities. This unique program guides students through the process of developing and executing an independent research project and publication in their area of interest, elevating their academic profile, proving their interest in the field to colleges, and gaining invaluable research, critical thinking, and writing skills.

Conduct in-depth research and produce an original, independent research paper under the expert guidance of a university mentor.
Significantly enhance your college applications by demonstrating advanced research skills and initiative.
Forge meaningful connections with PhD-level researchers from leading institutions, expanding your academic network.
Explore a wide array of research fields across STEM, Humanities, and Social Sciences, with the possibility of customizing your own topic.
Follow a structured program timeline (typically 12 weeks) that culminates in a publication and written recommendation from your mentor.

Mentored Research

Conduct University-level Research in High School

The Launch High School Research Program is a prestigious initiative providing talented students with the unparalleled opportunity to work one-on-one with accomplished researchers from top-tier universities. This unique program guides students through the process of developing and executing an independent research project and publication in their area of interest, elevating their academic profile, proving their interest in the field to colleges, and gaining invaluable research, critical thinking, and writing skills.

Conduct in-depth research and produce an original, independent research paper under the expert guidance of a university mentor.
Significantly enhance your college applications by demonstrating advanced research skills and initiative.
Forge meaningful connections with PhD-level researchers from leading institutions, expanding your academic network.
Explore a wide array of research fields across STEM, Humanities, and Social Sciences, with the possibility of customizing your own topic.
Follow a structured program timeline (typically 12 weeks) that culminates in a publication and written recommendation from your mentor.

the Launch Research Network Program has 1,400+ mentors from top universities

Meet with Your Mentor and Align on a Topic

  • Embark on your research journey by connecting with an expert mentor from a top university.
  • Explore your academic passions and discuss potential research avenues within diverse fields like STEM, Humanities, and Social Sciences.
  • Together, you and your mentor will pinpoint a compelling and potentially customizable research focus that ignites your curiosity and aligns with available expertise.
  • Begin to understand the expectations and timeline for your chosen research path, setting the foundation for a successful project.

Explore the Topic and Identify Your Research Question

  • Dive deep into your chosen topic, leveraging resources and guidance from your mentor to understand the existing body of knowledge.
  • Sharpen your focus by critically analyzing current research, identifying gaps, and considering potential areas for your unique contribution.
  • Formulate a precise and impactful research question that will guide your investigation and set the scope for your independent project.
  • Lay the groundwork for your research paper by outlining potential methodologies and approaches under your mentor's guidance.

Write research paper with support from research mentor and writing coach

  • Translate your research, analysis, and insights into a well-structured academic paper, adhering to scholarly standards.
  • Benefit from the expert guidance of your mentor, receiving feedback on your arguments, methodology, and overall research direction.
  • Receive valuable feedback and support from a dedicated writing coach to enhance your clarity, grammar, and overall communication effectiveness.
  • Develop crucial academic writing skills that will serve you well in future educational endeavors.

Work With a Publication Specialist To Get Your Work Published

  • Meet with a publication specialist to select a journal to submit your research based on its content and quality.
  • Receive feedback from the journal and refine your paper for resubmission or submission to another journal.
  • Receive a written recommendation from your mentor about you and your work.

The Support You Will Receive

Individual Sessions with Mentor

Personalized Research Guidance

Participants in the Individual Research Program benefit from 15 individual sessions with a mentor, who is a PhD fellow or post-doc, providing expert guidance on their research project.

Individual Sessions with Writing Coach & Publication Specialist

Support for Effective Communication and Dissemination

To aid in clear and impactful writing, the program includes 4 individual sessions with a writing coach. For those aiming to share their work, there are also 4 individual sessions with a publication specialist.

Program Oversight from Launch High School Research Program Manager

Dedicated Program Support and Coordination

The Individual Research Program includes direct program oversight from the Launch High School Research program manager, ensuring a structured and supportive experience.

Publication in College-Level Journal

Aiming for Scholarly Contribution

The intended goal output of the program is publication in a college-level journal. The program provides support for 3 rounds of submission to selective journals to facilitate this.

**No academically rigorous program can or should promise publication. We provide support for 3 rounds out of 9 submissions to selective college journals.  

Duration: Research Time & Publication Time

Program Timeline Breakdown

The estimated duration of the Individual Research Program is 3-4 months dedicated to research, followed by 1-4 months focused on the publication process.

Interested?
Talk With Your Launch Member
College Admissions Consultant.

Services are only available to students working with a Launch Member Consultant. If you are not yet working with a Launch Member, click here to request information about Launch Admissions Consultant Members.