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 all backgrounds to apply, including students without prior research experience.
DUNE SUMMER 2025
Program Dates: June 16 – August 8, 2025
Application Period: December 16, 2024 – February 9, 2025
Admissions Decisions Announced: March 2025
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.
Read More About Our Program
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!
Hear From Our Featured Alum
Scholar Stories
Hear from DUNE alumni of all backgrounds about how the program engaged them in full-time summer research in cutting-edge neuroscience labs at Duke University.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