What is METEOR?

Adapted from the previous METEOR v. HS program, METEOR v. 3 (Mentored Experiences to Expand Opportunities in Research version 3) offers a hands-on research experiences related to neuroscience to local high school students and STEM teachers-in-training. The program runs through the summer and extends through the school year. Students from the Washington, DC metro area engage in inquiry-based biomedical, behavioral, and clinical research at Children’s National Hospital (CNH) and Children’s National Research Institute (CNRI). Through a mentorship program and core curriculum, METEOR v. 3 employs unique research-based educational methods to foster interest and enhance knowledge in neuroscience, neurobiology, and related fields.

Person working on a presentation board with charts and text, labeled 'Children's National.'

A METEOR student putting together their poster for the poster session at the end of the program, 2024

Group of people in blue surgical gowns and masks gathered around a table in a medical setting, a training or educational session.
Individuals stand near a science fair project on environmental toxins and their effects on lung health. The display board includes text, charts, and lung graphics. People are engaged in discussing the project.

METEOR Research Day at Children's, 2019

Students observing a brain dissection, 2024

Who can apply?

  • Must be a rising 11th or 12th grade student

  • Must attend high school in Washington, D.C. or Prince George’s County

  • Must be a US citizen of permanent resident

Group of people standing together in a colorful photo frame with a "Zoo Crew" sign at the Smithsonian National Zoological Park. An orangutan cutout is in the foreground.

2019 METEOR students at Smithsonian National Zoological Park

A diverse group of people sitting and standing in front of a wall at the Johnson and Johnson Innovation Research Lab in a professional or educational setting.

2024 METEOR Students visiting the Johnson & Johnson Innovation labs at the Children's National Research & Innovation Campus