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Polk Scholars

Empowering the next generation of researchers

About Blackwell

The Blackwell Research Institute is a transformative organization for curious minds ready to ask bigger questions and pursue meaningful discovery. We provide opportunities for early-career researchers – from aspiring science researchers to future policy leaders – to engage in rigorous, real-world inquiry across disciplines. Together with our fellows, partners, and broader community, we help students explore critical research questions that are shaping our world, from human health and artificial intelligence to public policy, governance, and beyond.

Through this work, students have an impact and conduct meaningful research. Our programs empower the next generation to investigate complex problems, contribute original insights, and discover the questions that will shape their academic and professional paths.

Our Programs

Blackwell High School Research Scholars (HSRS) is an opportunity for students to conduct a STEM research project with one-on-one mentorship from a PhD researcher in their field of interest. We support projects across many disciplines:

Medicine & Healthcare Psychology Biology Chemistry Biochemistry Public Health Physics Geology Exercise Science Environmental Science Mathematics Computer Science (including AI & ML) Neuroscience Engineering Astronomy Atmospheric Science Animal Sciences
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The Polk Policy Scholars Program is designed for students who want to understand and shape the policies that define our world. Students conduct research with the guidance of a PhD mentor on a policy topic of their choosing, including technology and artificial intelligence governance, climate and environmental policy, public health systems, economic and labor policy, education, national security, and global development.

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Meet our Mentors
Blackwell Research Mentors are PhD and doctoral candidates across various areas of STEM from the top universities in the country. They have a passion for STEM, a calling to mentor, and the experience to teach students how to be successful scientists.

Student Opportunities

High School Research Scholars
High school students can apply to participate in our High School Research Scholars program to conduct an indepdendent research project with the guidance of a BWNRI mentor.
Learn more about the program
Science Writing Fellowship
High school and Undergraduate students can apply to join our Science Writing Fellowship, a one-month program where you write science articles for the BWNRI blog, covering research breakthroughs.
Learn more about the fellowship

Ask Questions

Across areas of science and engineering, Blackwell provides educational opportunities for students to learn about the ongoing research and scholarly debate.

Conduct Research

Blackwell’s research fellows and programs give students the opportunity to conduct research with the guidance and resources of the Institute.
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Share Findings

Across our platform and partners, fellows can share their research with others to actively contribute to ongoing scholarship.
Event
Biological Research Methods
Get a certificate to learn about the entry-level biological research methods used in university laboratories.
Register
Event
Functional Neuroanatomy
Learn about the parts of the brain, their function, and the current topics of research in neuroanatomy.
Register
Event
Foundations of Genetics
Genetics is a growing field. Learn about the foundations of genetics and genomic research and how you can get involved as a high school student.
Register

Blackwell Research Journal

Download the 2025 November issue to see exemplary research work from students.
Download the Issue
Article
Harnessing the Power of the Immune System to Combat Cancer
Recent advancements in cancer immunotherapy have provided promising new treatments that could revolutionize...
Read the Article
Article
The Discovery of Gravitational Waves from Black Hole Mergers
In a remarkable development, astrophysicists have made significant strides in understanding the most mysterious and...
Read the Article
Article
The Development of Sustainable Plastic Alternatives
In recent years, one of the most pressing challenges facing the chemical engineering field has been the...
Read the Article
Blackwell Research Institute
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New York, NY 10003
Terms of Service
Blackwell Research Institute is a national, independent research institution. It is the policy of Blackwell Research Institute to administer its educational programs, including admissions and financial aid, without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin or disability.