The Exemplary Student Research Program (ESRP) is a year-long initiative offered by Argonne National Laboratory that pairs high school students and their teachers with professional scientists to conduct original synchrotron-based research. Participants gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge research methodologies at one of the nation's premier scientific facilities, working alongside experts in a real laboratory environment. At the end of the program, teams present their findings at a formal poster session, mirroring the experience of professional researchers. It is a rare and extraordinary opportunity for high school students to contribute to genuine scientific inquiry at a world-class national laboratory.
Designing studies, testing hypotheses, and drawing evidence-based conclusions.
Running experiments safely and accurately using real scientific equipment and procedures.
Making sense of numbers and datasets to find patterns, test ideas, and support decisions.
Evaluating information carefully before drawing a conclusion or making a decision.
Breaking down a challenge and working through it methodically to a solution.
Students conduct synchrotron-based research projects, directly engaging in experimental physics methodology and data analysis.
Program emphasizes original research projects and scientific methodology applicable to biomedical and life sciences research.
Students analyze experimental data from synchrotron research, developing quantitative analysis and interpretation skills.
Working with Argonne scientists on year-long research projects builds foundational academic research and presentation skills.
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