The Center for Innovative and Strategic Transformation of Alkane Resources, CISTAR, is one of the flagship Engineering Research Centers (ERCs) funded by the National Science Foundation. ERCs bring together industry, academia, and government to cultivate engineering discovery and education in research areas critical to our nation’s strength. ERC’s infrastructure integrates four pillars: research, engineering workforce development, industry and innovation, and societal impact, with industry partners being paramount to the center's success. CISTAR is a coalition of five collaborating institutions comprising Purdue University, the University of New Mexico, Northwestern University, the University of Notre Dame, and the University of Texas at Austin.
The Young Scholars Program, offered at both Northwestern University and the University of Notre Dame, includes full-time research for high school students in a CISTAR-affiliated lab along with other educational opportunities. Participants will learn about CISTAR’s cutting-edge energy research and career options in the energy sector.
Program Length
June 15- July 24, six-week session, Monday through Friday, 30 hours/week
Eligibilty
Rising high school junior, rising or graduating high school senior, enrolled in a local school. Applicant must be a US citizen or a lawful U.S. permanent resident.
Stipend
$2,000
Program Requirments
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Commit to full program participation. No exceptions are made for vacations, summer classes, athletics, jobs, or other camps.
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Priority will be given to applicants from schools in the Notre Dame area.
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A strong background and interest in chemistry, along with some coding experience, are recommended.
Application Instructions
If you meet the criteria described above, please complete this application by the end of the day, April 16, 2026. In the application, you will be asked to upload a transcript from your high school. There is also a form to give to a high school teacher of your choice. The teacher may email the recommendation directly to Anne Berges Pillai, apillai@nd.edu.
No college credit is offered for this experience. If you have any questions about Notre Dame’s Young Scholars Program, contact Anne Berges Pillai, apillai@nd.edu.