Mentored Research For High School Students

Mentored research is one of the most powerful ways students can explore academic interests, build confidence, and demonstrate depth beyond coursework.

We offer two mentored research pathways to meet students where they are in terms of academic readiness, clarity of interests, and learning style.

OUR MENTORS

Our Research Program has 1400+ mentors from top universities

What Our Research Program Provides

Individual mentorship with experienced researchers or advanced-degree professionals

Structured guidance from idea development through completion

Skill development in research, writing, analysis, and communication

A meaningful academic outcome suitable for applications and interviews

Program Snapshot

Fully virtual
One-on-one mentorship
Project format varies by pathway
Program length varies based on scope and goals

Schedule a Consultation To Learn More

Available Areas For Research

Program Timeline

Research Pathways

We have 2 research pathways. Both are mentored, project-based experiences. The difference is structure, duration, and ideal student fit.

Clark College Consulting Research Program

Powered by Lumiere

One-on-one startup mentorship with PhD/postdoc researchers at top universities

15–20 page publishable research paper, with structured support to pursue submission

Fully online. 15 virtual one on one meetings with a mentor

Additional 8-10 hours per week of independent work

Dedicated program manager oversight

$7,999

Research & Passion Lab

Powered by Polygence

3 Phase Program

This pathway is designed for students who benefit from flexibility, exploration, and strong mentorship

Students can create any project output, and are not limited to research papers

This program is truly flexible. Students can begin any time, and pause their projects for APs, vacation, sports seasons, anything

Students must be at least 13 years old to participate.

$6,500

How to Choose the Right Internship Pathway

Choose Academic Research (Lumiere) when a student:

Already has a defined academic focus
Wants a traditional research paper
Is highly self-directed academically

Choose Research & Passion Projects (Polygence) when a student

Is still exploring interests
Wants flexibility in output
Benefits from structure and accountability

Comparison

Category	Academic Research	Research & Passion Projects
Partner	Lumiere Education	Polygence
Student Level	High school and college	Primarily high school (select college use cases)
Primary Goal	Academic depth and traditional research	Exploration, ownership, and flexible research
Ideal Student Profile	Clear academic interest, highly self-directed, academically advanced	Curious, exploratory, creative, or interdisciplinary
Structure	Highly structured, traditional academic research model	Flexible pacing and structure
Mentorship	1:1 with PhD candidates or postdocs	1:1 with PhD or advanced-degree mentors
Project Focus	Research methodology, analysis, academic writing	Student-driven topic with flexible approach


Typical Output	15–20 page academic research paper	Research paper or alternative project
Possible Outputs	Research paper, publication, competitions	Paper, podcast, app, nonprofit, business plan, creative project
Publication / Showcasing	Built into the program	Supported via Premium Showcasing Support
Skill Development	Research rigor, academic writing, discipline-specific depth	Executive functioning, confidence, ownership, applied skills
Timeline	~3–6 months (research + publication)	~3–6 months

Your Teen’s Path to Real-World Experience

STEPS:

Step 1. Apply to the Program

Complete the application, registration, and payment.

Step 2. Meet with Advisor & Select Your Research Focus

Talk through your teen’s interests and strengths with a mentor, then choose the industry where they’ll thrive.

Step 3. Get Matched to a Mentor

Our mentor will work hard with you to help you with the research, writing and publication.

Step 4. Complete 3-6 Month Research Project

Learn from experts and gain valuable experience.

Step 5. Showcase Experience on Applications & Essays

Stand out in your college applications and have a fantastic essay topic to separate yourself from your competition.

STILL NOT SURE?

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between Academic Research and Research & Passion Projects?

Academic Research focuses on traditional, structured research with an emphasis on academic depth, writing, and methodology. Research & Passion Projects are more flexible and student-driven, allowing students to explore creative, interdisciplinary, or applied ideas.

Which program is better for my student?

It depends on your student’s goals and personality.

-If your student is academically advanced, self-directed, and interested in formal research or publication, Academic Research is a strong fit.

-If your student is curious, creative, or wants to explore ideas beyond traditional research, Research & Passion Projects may be a better option.

Who are the programs designed for?

Academic Research programs are designed for both high school and college students.
Research & Passion Projects are primarily designed for high school students, with some select college-level applications.

What kind of final output can students expect?

Academic Research students typically complete a 15–20 page academic research paper.

Research & Passion Projects students can produce a wide range of outputs, such as a paper, podcast, app, nonprofit, business plan, or creative project.