Summer High School Research Program
Spend your summer doing research at LLE!
Are you a Rochester, New York-area high school junior with a passion for science and a desire to explore the frontiers of research? Join us at LLE in July and August to experience the thrill of scientific discovery firsthand!
About the Program
The eight-week paid program provides an exceptional opportunity for highly motivated students to experience scientific research in a realistic environment.
Students who are accepted into the program are assigned to a research project and supervised by a staff scientist or engineer at LLE. These projects form an integral part of the research program of the Laboratory and are related to the Laboratory’s 60-beam OMEGA laser, one of the world’s most powerful fusion lasers, and the OMEGA EP laser. At the end of the program, the students present the results of their projects at a symposium in the Laboratory.
What to Expect
- Hands-On Research: Work alongside world-class scientists and engineers on exciting projects in fields like laser physics, plasma physics, and materials science.
- Mentorship: Benefit from personalized guidance and support from experienced researchers.
- State-of-the-Art Facilities: Explore our world-class laser systems, laboratories, computer systems, and equipment.
- Networking Opportunities: Connect with talented undergraduate and graduate students.
- Another Way to Differentiate Yourself: Stand out among your peers for college admissions, scholarships, and internships.
How to Apply
Applications open in January 2026 for the July-August 2026 program. Selections are announced in April or May.
You can submit your application either online or on paper. Before using the “Apply Now” button, please save the following documents as PDFs for upload:
- A brief letter explaining your why you are interested in participating in the high school program
- An essay describing your interest in science and technology, and your future goals (This essay does not typically exceed two pages)
Additionally, you’ll need to submit:
- A letter of recommendation on high school letterhead from a science or math teacher (on school letterhead)
- Your high school transcript (grades 9-present)
- Your most recent report card
You can email your materials to HSProgram2025@lle.rochester.edu or mail/deliver them to:
Liz Conrow
Summer High School Research Program
University of Rochester, Laboratory for Laser Energetics
250 East River Road
Rochester, NY 14623
If dropping off, use the East entrance during work hours.
An interview at LLE may be part of the process.
All materials are due by 5:00 pm on March 10, 2026.
Apply Now
Downloadable Application
I was looking at summer research opportunities and this one checked all the boxes. It was a paid internship with a chance to do research with distinguished scientists. It was perfect. And the building is massive and super cool.
Program Highlights
- Immersive Research Experience: Spend two months immersed in a dynamic research environment.
- Specialized Seminars: Attend weekly seminars on topics such as laser physics, optics, materials science, and scientific communication.
- Career Exploration: Gain insights into potential career paths in science and technology.
- Project Report: You’ll write a report summarizing your research, which you can use to leverage college admissions, scholarships, and future internship opportunities.
Eligibility
To be considered for the LLE Summer High School Research Program, you must:
- Be a Rochester-area high school student entering 12th grade in the upcoming academic year.
- Have a strong interest in science and a demonstrated academic aptitude.
- Be able to commit to the full eight-week program duration.
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