About
Aspiring Scholars Directed Research Program (ASDRP) is a year-round research program for high school students in 9th through 12th grade. Students conduct high-level novel scientific research, and the program includes Research 101 for all new researchers during their first semester, plus weekly Colloquia on Tuesdays at 7:00 PM and Parent Fireside Chat every other Wednesday at 6:30-7:15 PM.
Programs
- Aspiring Scholars Directed Research Program (ASDRP) — High school students in 9th through 12th grade · Research year-round; research is typically conducted in the evenings and weekends
At a glance
- Ages: 14–18 years old
- General schedule: Year-round research. Fall 2026 ongoing events include weekly Tuesday Colloquia and bi-weekly Wednesday Parent Fireside Chat. Research 101 is mandatory for all new researchers during their first semester.
About the provider
ASDRP started with its inaugural cohort in summer 2018. It is run by a consortium of scientists, engineers, and researchers with years of academic and industry experience. The program offers research mentors and over $20M worth of research equipment in its laboratory, and students are matched with mentors who have experience in academia or industry. It also awards several partial and full scholarships each year for students from underrepresented backgrounds.
- Research 101 — All new researchers to ASDRP during their first semester · Weekly Saturdays, 9:00-10:30 AM (In Person); Weekly Saturdays, 10:00-11:30 AM (Online); Weekly Sundays, 9:00-10:30 AM (In Person); Weekly Tuesdays, 5:00-6:30 PM (Online)
- Colloquia — Researchers and anyone can join · Every Tuesday at 7:00 PM
- Parent Fireside Chat — Parents · Every other Wednesday, 6:30-7:15 PM
Applications are competitive. ASDRP performs research year-round and prospective applicants must apply before the posted deadlines. Research at ASDRP is mainly divided into three departments: Biological/Human/Life Sciences, Chemistry/Biochemistry/Physics, and Computer Science & Engineering. Students accepted in ASDRP can select specialty courses such as Machine Learning, Organic Chemistry, and MatLab at no additional cost.
Last updated September 18, 2026.
Is this your business? There is no cost, but you will be asked to sign up or log in.