STEM Research Accelerator
Event Dates: 29th September - 9th October 2026
Grades 8–12 | Limited Seats
What Is STEM Research Accelerator?
2 Week-long Research Incubator
An Opportunity to Think Critically. Research Deeply. Create Meaningfully.
This intensive program is crafted to mirror the rigor and depth of the world's top research institutions, blending the rich academic heritage of Ivy League standards with the innovative, forward-thinking approach of leading global research entities.
A Bootcamp Designed for Real-World Research Skills.
In this research bootcamp, participants will dive deep into the fundamentals of research, exploring various methodologies, the significance of data, and the application of Artificial Intelligence in streamlining research processes.
Bootcamp Curriculum
DAY 1: Foundations & AI Workflows
- The Research Blueprint: Defining research purposes and methodology categories.
- AI as a Research Partner: Using AI for source synthesis without over-reliance.
- Milestone: Brainstorming ways to study a STEM topic.
DAY 2: Expert Deep Dives
- ML & AI: Bayesian modeling + cognitive neuroscience
- CS & Applied Math: Google engineering + algorithms
- Activity: Designing research questions
DAY 3: Expert Deep Dives
- Engineering: Additive manufacturing + publication strategies
- Data Science: High-dimensional stats + AI optimization
- Milestone: Final research area & hypothesis
DAY 4: Data Architecture & Ethical Guardrails
- Data Design: Designing experimental logs and survey logic
- Ethical Standards: Plagiarism and STEM case studies
DAY 5: Funding, Formatting & Citations
- Understanding journals and funding systems
- Grant simulation exercise
- Technical writing and citation mastery
Day 6: Final Funding Simulation & Showcase
- The Pitch: Presenting projects to instructors
- Funding Gala: Peer investment simulation
- Merit Awards:
- Best Research Idea
- Best Research Methodology
- Best Use of Data
- Best Demonstration of Intersectionality
Meet Your Mentors
Maya Gobert
Founder & Director of Leadership & Innovation Lab; Director of Student Innovation
Cornell Alumna; Ivy League admissions strategist
Maya Gobert is our Director of Student Innovation. She is also the Founder and Director of the Leadership & Innovation Lab.
She attended Cornell University on a full expenses paid scholarship where she double majored in Economics and Political Science and graduated with top honors. Maya has worked across three continents and industries - finance, marketing and educational consulting.
She's also led a team of consultants and worked personally with students from more than 14 countries, mentoring them in candidacy building and extracurricular pursuits. Her students have gained admission into all the Ivy League colleges and many other Top 20 US universities.
Dr. Andrew Jahn
Neuroimaging consultant for Harvard’s McLean Hospital.
PhD in Cognitive Neuroscience
Madeline Zhang
Software Engineer at Google
MIT CS Alumna
Dr. Sankalp Kota
Principal Engineer with 41 academic publications.
PhD in Materials Science
Gabriel Arpino
AI & Optimization expert
Cambridge PhD Candidate and Harvard Postdoctoral Fellow
FAQs
Who is this BootCamp for?
The STEM Research Accelerator is an intensive bootcamp designed to introduce students from grades 8 to 12 to the fundamentals of research. It blends the academic heritage of Ivy Learning Lab standards with innovative global research approaches, covering various methodologies, the significance of data, and the application of Artificial Intelligence in research.
What skills will participants gain?
Participants will acquire a detailed understanding of the research process, hands-on experience in every step of research, knowledge of academic research publication, critical thinking, public speaking, and presentation skills.
Are there any prerequisites for joining the BootCamp?
There are no specific prerequisites; however, a keen interest in research and a commitment to the bootcamp are essential.
What will I receive after I attend the BootCamp?
All participants who attend the BootCamp will receive the following:
- Certificate of Participation from Ivy League and Big Red Education, signed by the Mentor.
- Opportunity to get an LOR from the Mentor.
What is the final deliverable for students in the BootCamp?
The final deliverable is a guaranteed peer-reviewed and instructor-critiqued research product. Top research products may also receive a Letter of Recommendation from the mentors.
