Junior Data Research Fellow
Summer 2026 Cohort
Not a camp. Not open enrollment. Selective cohort.
Program Overview
The Junior Data Research Fellowship is a selective, project-based program designed for high school students who want real experience in AI and data science. Over 8 weeks, fellows work alongside mentors to build a portfolio-ready project and deliver a professional presentation. This is not a lecture series -- it is a hands-on research experience.
Project-Based
Build a real AI/data project from problem definition through deployment, guided by expert mentors.
Portfolio-Ready
Finish with a GitHub repository, polished slides, and a certificate to strengthen college applications.
Presentation Focused
Fellows present their work in a final showcase, developing communication skills valued by universities.
Who This Is For
This fellowship is designed for driven students ready to go beyond the classroom.
High School Students
Grades 9-12, ages 14-18
Curious About AI & Data
Interest in artificial intelligence, machine learning, or data science
Ready for Commitment
Prepared for structured mentorship and weekly project milestones
What Fellows Produce
Every fellow leaves with tangible, portfolio-ready outcomes.
- One completed AI/Data project
- GitHub repository with documented code
- Professional presentation slides
- Certificate of completion
- Recommendation letter (optional premium add-on)Premium add-on available
Program Structure
8 weeks of structured, mentored project work in three phases.
Phase 1
Weeks 1-2
Foundation
Orientation, tooling setup, and foundational concepts in Python, data analysis, and AI fundamentals. Fellows identify their research question.
Phase 2
Weeks 3-6
Project Development
Hands-on project work with weekly mentor check-ins. Data collection, model building, iteration, and documentation in GitHub.
Phase 3
Weeks 7-8
Final Presentation
Polish deliverables, prepare presentation slides, rehearse, and deliver a final showcase to peers, mentors, and invited guests.
Selection Process
Three straightforward steps. We value curiosity over credentials.
Step 1
Online Application
Submit your application with basic info, short-answer responses, and a brief statement of interest.
Step 2
10-Minute Interview
A short conversation to assess communication skills, curiosity, and commitment. No technical quiz.
Step 3
Acceptance Notification
Selected fellows will be notified via email with onboarding materials and next steps.
Limited seats available. The cohort is capped at 12 students to ensure quality mentorship. Early applications are strongly encouraged.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about the fellowship.
Applications Open — Limited to 12 Students
Join a selective cohort of driven students building real AI projects.