Not sure where to start with research?
From choosing a field to mentor matching, research, and evaluation. A ONE is with you from start to finish.
Ask about researchYour questions, answered below
Simply having done research is not enough
Almost everyone does it now
Most students applying to top universities now do research.
The difference is quality
With most applicants presenting research, quality is what sets one project apart.
‘I tried it’ earns no credit
Colleges don't give credit for research you merely tried.
Research is only as good as the mentor behind it
That is why A ONE research starts with mentor matching. A mentor in the student's field guides the research, and A ONE's research specialists manage and evaluate the process.
Guides the research directly
Matched to the student's field of interest and specialty, the mentor works with the student from the first topic discussion through the research itself.
Manage and evaluate the research
While the mentor and student focus on the research, our specialists make sure it stays on track and evaluate the results.
We aim for the top
These are the competitions and journals A ONE research students aim for.
ISEF
Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair
The world's largest science and engineering research competition for high school students
- Students compete in 22 categories.
- In 2026, 1,725 finalists came from 65 countries, regions, and territories.
- Awards and scholarships total more than $7 million.
- Students must qualify through an affiliated fair.
JSHS
Junior Science and Humanities Symposium
A STEM research competition for high school students, sponsored by the U.S. Army, Navy, and Air Force
- Students submit a research paper and present it to judges.
- The top five at each regional symposium are invited to the national symposium.
- First place in each category of the national oral competition receives a $12,000 scholarship.
Regeneron STS
Science Talent Search
Held since 1942, it is the oldest and most prestigious science and math research competition for high school seniors in the United States. It names 300 scholars and 40 finalists, with a top award of $250,000.
Davidson Fellows
Davidson Fellows Scholarship
It awards scholarships of $100,000, $50,000, and $25,000 for outstanding projects completed by students 18 or younger. Categories include science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, as well as literature, music, and philosophy.
S.-T. Yau Science Award
S.-T. Yau High School Science Award
A global research competition for high school students hosted by Tsinghua University. Students compete in six fields: mathematics, physics, chemistry, biology, computer science, and economic and financial modeling.
Stockholm Junior Water Prize
SJWP
A world-renowned prize for water-related research by high school students. National winners advance to the international competition held during World Water Week in Stockholm.
The Concord Review
Emerson Prize
Founded in 1987, it is a quarterly journal that publishes history research papers by high school students. The best published papers receive the Emerson Prize.
National History Day
NHD
A history research competition built around a new theme each year. After regional and state contests, the national contest takes place in June at the University of Maryland.
Information as of November 2026. Eligibility (grade level, citizenship or residency, regional qualifiers, etc.) and schedules vary by competition; check each competition's official website for details.
Here is how it works
Whether or not you have a field of interest yet, both paths lead to the same place.
If you have a field of interest
Tell us your field in the email.
I'm interested in research. Field: Neuroscience Specific topic: Not sure yet
If you have a specific topic, include it too.
First meeting with your mentor
You and your mentor discuss the specific topic you have in mind.
If you don't have a field yet
That's fine. We will choose a field for you.
I'd like to do research in the humanities. I haven't decided on a specific topic yet.
Just tell us whether you lean toward humanities or STEM.
First meeting with your mentor
Your mentor suggests a topic in their strongest area with a good chance of winning awards.
Research with your mentor
A ONE's research specialists manage and evaluate the research.
Duration
4 – 10 months
The duration depends on the topic and level of the research.
Frequently asked questions
Can I start if I don't have a field in mind yet?
Yes, you can. If you haven't chosen a field, we will choose one for you, and at the first meeting your mentor suggests a topic in their strongest area with a good chance of winning awards.
Can I do research in the humanities?
Yes. We offer research in both STEM and non-STEM fields. Just tell us your preferred field when you contact us.
How long does it take?
Between 4 and 10 months, depending on the topic and level of the research.
How do I get started?
Send an email to [email protected]. If you have a field of interest, include the field and your specific topic.
Start with a single email
It's fine if you haven't chosen a field. Just send a short note like the one below.
I'm interested in research. Field: Neuroscience Specific topic: Not sure yet
If you haven't chosen a field, just say so. We will choose one for you.
