STEM Research Academy

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Last Updated: Jan 22, 2026, 12:26 PM

The STEM Research Academy at Southern Illinois University (SIU) is a dynamic summer initiative coordinated by the STEM Education Research Center (SERC). It offers high school students the unique opportunity to engage in authentic research experiences alongside SIU faculty and staff. In 2024, the program featured diverse research projects across disciplines such as physics, biology, computing, media arts, agriculture, and environmental science. Students are also encouraged to propose their own research ideas, with SERC assisting in faculty-student matching. The academy fosters early exposure to higher education research, inspiring future STEM careers through immersive, hands-on learning.

Southern Illinois University is excited to announce a new 4-week Summer Researchers Camp. A wide range of projects are available and campers submit their top choices when completing camp registration. Studies include whitel light solar flares, the US Supreme Court, Mississippi River Wetlands, algae, white-tailed deer and more.

Contact Information

Dr. Chindia, Benard

Dr. Chindia, Benard

STEM Research Academy – Summer 2025 Scholarship Opportunity

The STEM Research Academy Scholarship is a prestigious and competitive opportunity for high-achieving high school students in Illinois who are passionate about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. This scholarship is designed to provide full financial support to students who demonstrate strong academic potential and a genuine interest in scientific research but lack the financial resources to participate in the program.

Selected scholars will be given the opportunity to work one-on-one with faculty and graduate researchers from Southern Illinois University in a rigorous, four-week research experience that includes both remote and on-campus components. 

Please submit your application here: Registrations Open Soon

Scholarship Benefits

Scholarship Benefits
  • Full or partial tuition coverage
  • On-campus housing (for eligible students)
  • Research materials and lab access
  • Daily meals and transportation during in-person weeks
  • Mentorship from experienced STEM professionals
  • Certificate of completion and presentation opportunity

Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the STEM Research Academy Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
  1. Currently enrolled in high school (grades 9–11) in the state of Illinois.
  2. Maintain a strong academic record, with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (or equivalent).
  3. Demonstrate a strong interest in STEM disciplines, supported by coursework, extracurricular activities, or personal projects.
  4. Be available to participate in the full four-week program (including remote and on-campus components).
  5. Submit a completed application form, including personal and academic information.
  6. Participate in an interview if shortlisted.
  7. Be a resident of Illinois and willing to engage with the program’s academic and professional expectations.

Important Dates

June 7-20, 2026 - 9th-12th grades

Application Deadline: To be Annonced soon..

Notification of Results: To be Annonced soon..

We believe that every passionate and motivated student deserves a chance to explore their potential, regardless of financial circumstances. If you're excited about research, eager to grow, and in need of financial support, we encourage you to apply.

For more information or to apply, please visit: Portal Open soon..

Additional questions include your time zone, school details, and how you heard about the program. Applicants will also be asked to rank a second and third choice of research projects in case space in their top choice is limited.
For more information or to apply, please visit: Registrations Open Soon

Schedule

Week 1 (40 hours), Remote: Students work under the guidance of their respective research professor to complete a review of literature to gain the requisite background knowledge to participate in hands-on science during weeks 2 and 3. 

Weeks 2-3 (80 hours) - In Person at SIU Campus: Students work with their respective research professor to conduct hands-on data collection, analysis, and interpretation of results. Additionally, students will have a full schedule of extracurricular activities throughout their stay at SIU. 

Week 4 (40 hours) - Remote:  Students work under the guidance of their respective research professor to complete an academic poster to use as a visual aid to present and publish individual research findings. 

Mission

The STEM Research Academy at Southern Illinois University empowers high school students through immersive, hands-on research experiences in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and the humanities. By connecting students with world-class faculty and meaningful projects, we cultivate critical thinking, scientific inquiry, and a lifelong passion for learning and innovation.

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Vision

To be a national model for pre-college STEM engagement that inspires the next generation of diverse innovators, researchers, and leaders by offering transformative research experiences grounded in real-world challenges and interdisciplinary collaboration.

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Core Values

  • Student Empowerment

    We believe in the potential of every student and provide them with the tools, mentorship, and confidence to explore and contribute to authentic research.
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  • Excellence in Research

    We are committed to maintaining high standards of academic rigor and inquiry, fostering a culture of curiosity and evidence-based problem solving.
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  • Diversity and Inclusion

    We welcome students from all backgrounds and strive to create an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives enrich our research and learning.
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  • Collaboration and Mentorship

    We value strong partnerships between students, faculty, staff, and the community, emphasizing mentorship as a key driver of growth and discovery.
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  • Innovation and Creativity

    We encourage students to think outside the box, explore new ideas, and use cutting-edge tools and techniques to address contemporary challenges.
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  • Ethical Responsibility

    We promote integrity, transparency, and social responsibility in all research activities, teaching students to be ethical contributors to the scientific community.
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  • Lifelong Learning

    We inspire students to embrace a mindset of continual learning and adaptability, preparing them for future academic and professional success.
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