Young Scientist Internship
A Health Sciences Research Experience for High School Students
Real Research. Real Mentors. Real Impact.
The Young Scientist Internship at Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences is a hands-on research program for motivated high school students interested in medicine, health care, science and research.
You’ll actively contribute to a research project alongside DMU faculty mentors, build meaningful skills, strengthen your academic portfolio and present your work at the Young Scientist Program Symposium in November.
If you’re considering a future in medicine, physical therapy, public health, research, biomedical science or another health-related field, this program gives you a competitive edge.
Applications for the Young Scientist Internship are currently closed. Watch for the next opportunity in early 2027.
Why This Research Internship Stands Out
- Work directly with university faculty members
- Build real research, data and communication skills
- Strengthen college, pre-med and scholarship applications
- Explore health science careers before you graduate high school
- Present your work publicly at a professional research symposium
- Hybrid format: Virtual cohort sessions, independent work and select on-campus touchpoints.
By the end of the program, you’ll complete a research poster, deliver a three-minute lightning talk and produce a written research summary — tangible accomplishments you can include on college applications and resumes.
Internship Options
Two pathways are available based on your schedule and goals:
Standard Internship — 60 Hours
Designed for students who want a structured research experience alongside school and other activities.
Time Commitment
- 2-3 hours per week (July through August)
- 4 hours per week (September through November)
Advanced Internship — 90 Hours
Designed for students who want deeper engagement in research.
- Analyze additional datasets
- Participate in expanded research methods
- Develop enhanced communication materials
- Participate in an optional wet-lab micro-rotation (must be 16 or older)
Time Commitment
- 4-6 hours per week (July through August)
- 5 hours per week (September through November)
Research Tracks
Choose a focus area aligned with your interests:
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Applied Analytics and Innovation
Explore data science, technology, AI and creative problem-solving to improve health care and research.
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Clinical and Translational Science
Learn how scientific discoveries move from the lab to real-world patient care.
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Health and Human Performance
Study how the body works, adapts, stays healthy and performs during exercise, sports and daily life.
Who Can Apply?
DMU’s Young Scientist Internship is open to high school students ages 15 and older. No prior research experience is required — just curiosity, motivation and a willingness to learn.
Students 16 and older are eligible for the optional wet-lab experience.
Whether you’re already planning a career in medicine or just starting to explore health sciences, this program helps you discover what research is really like.
Key Dates
Keep these important dates and deadlines in mind:
- Interest Form Deadline:
Friday, April 10, 2026 - Program Begins:
Late July/Early August 2026 - Young Scientist Program Symposium:
Saturday, Nov. 15, 2026
Frequently asked Questions
Find helpful information below, or contact us at Research@dmu.edu for more information.