RockEDU Jumpstart

RockEDU Jumpstart is a paid, two-phase lab research program at The Rockefeller University for New York City high school juniors and seniors. It combines a spring after-school session with a full-time summer research experience on the university's campus in New York City. The program supports 16 students. The 2026 spring phase met Tuesdays and Thursdays from 4:30pm to 7pm, February 26 to June 11, 2026, and focused on molecular biology lab skills. Students then joined the Summer Science Research Program (SSRP) for up to 35 hours a week, June 22 to August 6, 2026, doing mentored lab research. In 2026, students received a $500 stipend for the spring phase and $3,250 for the summer phase.

Applicants must be enrolled as a junior or senior at an NYC high school, must live in New York City, and must be at least 16 years old when the program starts. Sophomores are not eligible. There is no minimum GPA, and students with limited access to STEM opportunities are strongly encouraged to apply. Participants must commit to both phases. Research done in the program cannot be used for science competitions. There is no application fee. Applying requires an online application and letters of recommendation, followed by a Zoom interview for selected applicants.