The KEYS (Keep Engaging Youth in Science) Research Internship is an annual summer program run by the University of Arizona’s BIO5 Institute in Tucson.
After a training week, high-school interns spend the rest of the seven weeks working full-time on a faculty research project, then present a poster at a closing research showcase.
Benefits & funding
- No cost to take part and no application fee; financial aid is offered for related costs (CatCard, parking, meals, transport, lost job earnings).
- 3 credits of University of Arizona MCB 103 coursework and assured admission to the W.A. Franke Honors College.
- Limited campus housing for interns from outside the Tucson area.
- Expected: 35+ hours a week in the lab plus pre-program assignments from April.
Eligibility
- At least 16 by the first day, June 7, 2027 — no exceptions.
- Currently attending high school.
- U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and an Arizona resident for at least one year.
- Available for the full program, June 7 – July 23, 2027.
Can you apply?
Here's who can apply
Decoded from the official rules. A free account checks them against your passport, degree and age in seconds.
“Must be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident and a resident of Arizona for at least one year” Eligibility
Eligible nationalities
USA
Residents of USA can also apply.
Residence required
USA
Education required
High School
Age requirement
≥ 16 yrs
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We only check the criteria we have data for. Always confirm full eligibility on the official page before applying.
Application process
- 1Submit the online application (four essays, unofficial transcript, signed student and parent agreement — parents sign even if you are 18) by December 17, 2026.
- 2List two recommenders, one a science teacher; their KEYS forms must be in by January 7 or the application is not considered.
- 3Shortlisted applicants are invited to interview with program staff.
Program timeline
Applications open
Nov 2, 2026
Application deadline
Dec 17, 2026
Recommendation forms due
January 7
Interview invitations / offers
Mid-Feb / end of March
Internship
Jun 7, 2027 – Jul 23, 2027