DUNE engages local high school students in full-time summer research in cutting-edge neuroscience labs at Duke University. Our students gain hands-on research experience, participate in professional development activities, and receive a stipend. We encourage students from diverse backgrounds to apply, including students without prior research experience.
What to Expect
Hands-on Research
Match into a cutting-edge neuroscience lab at Duke University based on your interests, start a research project, and receive individualized mentorship from professional scientists.
Preparation for Your Future
Participate in a series of workshops to learn more about neuroscience, develop scientific communication and presentation skills, explore career options in academia, industry, and medicine, and receive guidance for applying to college.
Join our DUNE Community
Meet peers and mentors over provided lunch, in workshops, and during the final presentation of research.
ELIGIBILITY
To apply for 2025, students must:
- Be a current high school sophomore or junior (grades 10-11 for the 2024-2025 school year), or a senior (grade 12) who does *not* plan to attend college in fall 2025;
- Attend a public or charter high school in Durham, NC (C.E. Jordan High School, City of Medicine Academy, Durham School of Technology, Durham School of the Arts, Excelsior Classical Academy, Hillside High School, Ignite! Online Academy, J.D. Clement Early College High School, Middle College High School, NC Cyber Academy, NC School of Science and Mathematics [Durham], NC Virtual Academy, Northern High School, Research Triangle High School, Riverside High School, Southern School of Energy and Sustainability, or Voyager Academy High School);
- Have reliable transportation for daily commuting to Duke University;
- Be at least sixteen (16) years old by June 16, 2025; and
- Be a U.S. citizen, national, permanent resident, or legal resident.
HAve questions?
Refer to our FAQ!
Read More About Our Program
Trading backpacks for lab coats: High school students become neuroscientists at Duke
North Carolina Public Radio showcased local high schoolers participating in our Duke University Neuroscience Experience (DUNE) program, a paid summer research internship that provides hands-on brain science lab work, professional development, and more.Hear From Our Featured Alum
Featured 2023 Alum Interview
DUNE 2024
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DUNE 2023
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DUNE 2022
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Program Contact
Additional questions should be directed to:
Tiffany Scotton, DUNE program manager
Email: duneprogram@duke.edu
Phone: 919 684 3422