The Talaria Summer Institute (TSI) is a free six-week online research program that pairs high school students with scientist mentors to develop and complete original medical and scientific research projects. Talaria focuses specifically on students from gender groups historically underrepresented in STEM, including female, transgender, non-binary, and genderqueer students. The program has served 533 mentees from 28 countries, supported by 220 mentors.
How the program works:
- Application (January–March): Students submit applications through the online portal. Applications are reviewed by the Talaria committee in April.
- Matching (May): Selected applicants enter a matching stage where mentors review profiles and may conduct interviews. Final acceptance and mentor assignments are announced May 31.
- Pre-program (June): Accepted students complete any preliminary assignments or introductory meetings with their mentors.
- Summer Institute (July 1–August 12): Students work with their mentors over six weeks to conduct research, produce a literature review or study, and develop professional research skills.
- Talaria Conference (end of August): Students present their completed research at the annual Talaria Conference.
What students produce:
- Original research projects in fields of their choosing (medical, biological, and scientific topics)
- Professional literature reviews, research papers, or studies
- A conference presentation shared with the broader Talaria community
Year-round programs: Beyond the Summer Institute, Talaria also hosts Talaria Clubs (academic-year research development and competition submission) and a Summer Residency program.
2026 key dates:
- Application opens: January 1, 2026
- Application deadline: March 30, 2026 (11:59 PM EST)
- Matching stage notifications: May 1, 2026
- Final acceptance decisions and mentor matches: May 31, 2026
- Summer Institute: July 1–August 12, 2026
- Talaria Conference: end of August 2026