About
The KEYS Research Internship pairs interns with University of Arizona researchers. Faculty, university students, and other lab personnel mentor interns, and students present at a research showcase. The program lasts seven weeks each summer, and the first week is training week.
Programs
- KEYS Research Internship — 16 years of age or older by the first day of the program; currently attending high school; must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and a resident of Arizona for at least one year · Seven weeks each summer; prior to research, students complete assignments between April and the start of the program in June; first week is training week
At a glance
- Ages: 16–18 years old
- Current session: 2027 KEYS Program (Jun 7–Jul 23, 2027)
- General schedule: Seven weeks each summer; prior to research, students complete assignments between April and the start of the program in June; first week is training week
About the provider
The program is led by the BIO5 Institute. Its annual Keep Engaging Youth in Science (KEYS) Research internship is described as one of Arizona’s premier training programs for high school students interested in developing STEM skills. Next year marks 20 years of the BIO5 Institute’s KEYS Research Internship.
- Application opens — November 2, 2026
Eligibility includes being 16 or older by the first day of the program, currently attending high school, and being a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and a resident of Arizona for at least one year. Online application includes four essay questions, signed student and parent agreement, contact information for two recommenders (one must be a science teacher), and an unofficial transcript. No cost to participate.
What families say
“KEYS gives you the skills you need to communicate science, write an abstract, and make a poster. Taking things slow really helped me learn the proper way to communicate science. The program has really helped me with anything I’ve done in college, like writing lab reports and creating my Undergraduate Biology Research Program (UBRP) posters.” — 2016 KEYS Intern Jason Juang
Last updated August 30, 2026.
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