Research Scholars Program

A personalized, virtual mentorship program to help high school students design and execute research projects that inspire curiosity, build critical skills, and stand out on college applications.

Start Your Research Journey – Let an Expert Guide You.

Our Research Mentorship Program was developed by Dr. Ken Tao, a Harvard-trained neuroscientist. Dr. Tao’s extensive research experience and passion for mentorship set this program apart, ensuring that students receive elite guidance to develop impactful, high-quality research projects.

Work One-on-One with a PhD Mentor

Our carefully selected PhD mentors provide personalized, expert guidance, helping students design and execute research projects that showcase their academic strengths.

Achieve Success with a Proven Track Record

Students in our program have launched original research, strengthened their college applications, and gained essential problem-solving and analytical skills that last a lifetime.

Receive Comprehensive Support from Start to Finish

From selecting your research topic to writing your final paper—and even submitting it for publication (Gold Package), we support you every step of the way.

Experience Personalized Mentorship for a Powerful Paper

Every student is unique. Our program is tailored to your interests and academic goals, ensuring that your research project is impressive and also meaningful to you.

Complete Support: From Idea to Publication

Choose Your Research Topic & Write Your Paper

Selecting the right research topic is crucial to crafting a compelling and meaningful project. Our expert mentors help students refine their interests, develop strong research questions, and structure their papers to meet academic standards, ensuring a polished final product.

Submit your research for publication

For students who want to take their research to the next level, we provide guidance on submitting papers to academic journals, conferences, and competitions. Our mentors help navigate the submission process, increasing the chances of getting published and earning recognition for your work.

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Getting Started is as Easy as 1-2-3

1. Complete Your Application

Take the first step toward your research journey in less than 15 minutes. Tell us about your interests, academic background, and goals so we can match you with the perfect PhD mentor.
Apply now.

2. Receive a Decision

Within 1-3 business days, your application will be reviewed by an expert PhD mentor. You’ll receive personalized feedback and details on your next steps.

3. Enroll & Start Your Research

Once accepted, you can sign up to secure your spot and begin your one-on-one mentorship sessions immediately. From choosing your research topic to crafting a publication-worthy paper, we’ll support you every step of the way.

Package Pricing

Strengthen Your College Applications & Path to Medicine

Choose your advisor:

Silver Icon
Silver
Gold Icon
Gold
Invest in Your Medical School Future and Boost Your Odds of Getting Accepted.
Choose Your Plan
$3,000

-

$4,000

-

Program Duration 10 weeks 10 weeks + extended mentorship for journal publication
Mentorship Sessions Weekly one-on-one sessions with a PhD mentor Weekly one-on-one sessions with a PhD mentor + additional sessions for publication support
Research Topic Selection check check
Literature Review & Design check check
Data Collection & Analysis check check
Write a Research Paper check check
College Application Consultation check check
Publication Guidance X check
Journal Submission Support X check
Submission/Revision Process Support X check
Silver Icon
Silver
Gold Icon
Gold
Invest in Your Medical School Future and Boost Your Odds of Getting Accepted.
Choose Your Plan
$3,000

-

$4,000

-

Program Duration 10 weeks 10 weeks + extended mentorship for journal publication
Mentorship Sessions Weekly one-on-one sessions with a PhD mentor Weekly one-on-one sessions with a PhD mentor + additional sessions for publication support
Research Topic Selection check check
Literature Review & Design check check
Data Collection & Analysis check check
Write a Research Paper check check
College Application Consultation check check
Publication Guidance X check
Journal Submission Support X check
Submission/Revision Process Support X check
Silver Icon
Silver
Gold Icon
Gold
Invest in Your Medical School Future and Boost Your Odds of Getting Accepted.
Choose Your Plan
$6,500

-

$8,500

-

Program Duration 10 weeks 10 weeks + extended mentorship for journal publication
Mentorship Sessions Weekly one-on-one sessions with a PhD mentor Weekly one-on-one sessions with a PhD mentor + additional sessions for publication support
Research Topic Selection check check
Literature Review & Design check check
Data Collection & Analysis check check
Write a Research Paper check check
College Application Consultation check check
Publication Guidance X check
Journal Submission Support X check
Submission/Revision Process Support X check

Meet our Director of Research

Ken Tao PhD, MedSchoolCoach

Dr. Ken Tao, PhD, is a Harvard-trained neuroscientist with years of experience mentoring students in designing, executing, and publishing research projects.

Stand Out in College Admissions with a Research Project Showcasing Your Passion & Expertise.

Our mentorship program guides you through designing, executing, and showcasing a distinctive project that demonstrates your skills, commitment, and impact—giving you a competitive edge in the admissions process.

Want to meet more of the team?

How We Help

We work closely with every student throughout their research mentorship journey. Our goal is to provide personalized guidance to help you develop a research project that not only strengthens your academic profile but also aligns with your passions and goals.

APPLICATION

We start by getting to know you through our application process, which helps us understand your interests, academic background, and goals. This allows us to match you with the best-fit PhD mentor for your research journey. Take the first step—apply now—and receive expert feedback on your research potential.

STRATEGIZE YOUR RESEARCH PROJECT

Your mentor will guide you through every stage of your research project, from selecting a topic aligned with your interests to designing a plan for successful execution. Together, you’ll create a project that reflects your unique skills and aspirations.

TOPIC SELECTION & PLANNING

We help you identify and refine a research topic that excites you. By focusing on your interests, we’ll develop a strong research plan that ensures you stay on track and achieve meaningful results.

EXTENSIVE MENTORSHIP

Your PhD mentor will provide expert guidance at every step, helping you design experiments, analyze data, and communicate your findings effectively. Their one-on-one support ensures your work is rigorous and impactful.

PUBLICATION & PRESENTATION SUPPORT (GOLD PACKAGE)

For students pursuing the Gold Package, we offer extended mentorship to prepare your research for submission to academic journals. This includes guidance on formatting, selecting journals, and responding to feedback, ensuring your work reaches its full potential.

Student Testimonials

Emily Research student

"This program changed everything for me! I had always been interested in environmental science, but I had no idea how to turn that interest into a real research project. My mentor helped me refine my topic, analyze data, and even prepare my paper for submission. Now, I feel so much more confident applying to top colleges because I have a unique project that truly reflects my passion and skills!"

Emily S., High School Senior

Testimonial from Jason

"I never thought I could conduct real research as a high school student, but this mentorship program made it possible. My mentor walked me through every step, from choosing a topic to structuring my final paper. I even presented my findings at a youth research symposium! The skills I gained—critical thinking, data analysis, and academic writing—will help me long after high school."

Jason M., High School Junior

Research Student

"Working one-on-one with a PhD mentor was an amazing experience! I always knew I wanted to go into medicine, but I struggled to find research opportunities. This program helped me explore a topic in neuroscience, which made my college applications so much stronger. Plus, I got the chance to submit my work to an academic journal—something I never imagined I could do before!"

Neha P., High School Junior

Sample Projects

Our students explore cutting-edge topics across science, medicine, and technology, producing high-impact research that strengthens their academic profiles. Here are some examples:

  • Advancing Pancreatic Cancer Predictions Using Generative Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
  • Temporal Characterization of Electroencephalogram Slowing Activity Types in Neurological Disorders
  • Enhancing Stock Price Prediction: A Multi-Model Approach with Exponentially Weighted Moving Averages
  • The Impact of Greenhouse Gases, Regions, and Sectors on Future Temperature Anomalies with the FaIR Model
  • Deep Learning for Movement Analysis in Parkinson’s Disease and Levodopa-Induced Dyskinesia

Selected Publications

Our students have published their research in competitive journals, highlighting diverse topics such as environmental health, sociology, and cardiology. Here are some key publications:

  • Born Into Risk: How Prenatal Exposure to PM2.5 Shapes Autism Outcomes
    American Journal of Student Research, 2025 Sep. DOI: 10.70251/HYJR2348.35276281 This study explores the relationship between prenatal exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and autism spectrum disorder prevalence in the United States, finding a statistically significant correlation between higher exposure levels and increased diagnosis rates.
  • Beyond the City Limits: The Causes and Consequences of the Stigmatization of Homelessness in Suburban Areas American
    Journal of Student Research, 2025 Sep. DOI: 10.70251/HYJR2348.35367375 This research fills a gap in homelessness studies by examining how stigma uniquely affects individuals in suburban environments, addressing the compounded effects of limited resources, lower visibility, and avoidance of help-seeking behaviors.
  • Calcium Channel Blockers in Cardiac Surgery: Efficacy, Administration, and Clinical Outcomes in Arterial Graft Management
    American Journal of Student Research, 2025 Dec. DOI: 10.70251/HYJR2348.3610451052 This comprehensive literature review synthesizes evidence from 1987-2025 on the efficacy of calcium channel blockers in preventing arterial graft spasm during coronary artery bypass grafting, highlighting short-term benefits and identifying critical gaps for future randomized trials.

Frequently Asked Questions

The program is designed to be completed in 10 weeks, with 1 mentorship session per week. However, the schedule is flexible to accommodate your needs. If you have more time, you can complete the 10 sessions over a shorter period. Similarly, if you need additional time due to other commitments, you can extend the program duration. Our goal is to work with your schedule to ensure the best experience.

You can explore research in a wide variety of fields, including biology, computer science, public health, environmental science, and more. Our program is flexible and allows you to design a project based on your interests and goals. If you’re unsure about a topic, your mentor will help you identify and refine one that aligns with your passions.

No prior research experience is required! This program is designed to guide students of all skill levels through the research process, from selecting a topic to writing and presenting your findings. Your mentor will provide one-on-one support to ensure you gain the skills needed to succeed.

While publication is not guaranteed, students in the Gold Package receive extended mentorship focused on preparing their research for submission to academic journals. This includes support with formatting, journal selection, and responding to feedback from reviewers. Many of our students have successfully published their work.

All mentorship sessions are conducted virtually via video calls, making it easy for students to connect with their mentors from anywhere. Additionally, you can communicate with your mentor between sessions via email to ask questions or receive feedback on your work.

Yes, students who demonstrate exceptional performance, dedication, and active participation in the program may be eligible to receive a personalized letter of recommendation from their mentor. This letter can highlight your research skills, academic abilities, and commitment to learning, providing a significant boost to your college application. However, letters of recommendation are not guaranteed and are awarded at the mentor’s discretion.

More Questions

(888) 381-9509

BS/MD Advising Reviews

Need More Thorough Support?

We offer comprehensive programs for students at every stage, but you can also choose from our à la carte services for targeted guidance on applications or interview preparation.

PRE-MED COACH PROGRAM

Expert guidance for 9th and 10th graders to build a strong academic profile, select extracurriculars, and plan for college admissions.

or

BS/MD & DIRECT MED ADVISING

Specialized support for 11th and 12th graders applying to competitive BS/MD and BA/MD programs, from application strategy to essays.

or

Interview Preparation

Personalized coaching for traditional and MMI medical interviews, with realistic practice and expert feedback to boost confidence.

Have more questions?

Contact Our Enrollment Team

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