Program Overview

The NLR–SLAC Pathway Summer School (PSS) is a six-week summer learning program designed for high school students and recent high school graduates from the Denver and San Francisco Bay areas.

Participants explore scientific research alongside scientists and mentors at national laboratories while engaging in collaborative, project-based learning activities.

Through hands-on learning, discussions with researchers, and career exploration experiences, students gain insight into how scientific discoveries are made and how STEM careers contribute to solving real-world challenges.

Additional Information

  • Who Should Apply

    Students who are curious about science, technology, and solving real-world problems are encouraged to apply.

    Applicants must:

    • Be U.S. citizens
    • Be at least 16 years old by June 22, 2026
    • Be a current high school student or recent high school graduate from the Denver and San Francisco Bay areas
    • Submit two letters of recommendation
    • Be available to participate in the full program schedule (approximately 30 hours per week)

    Students must be 18 or older by the program start date in order to travel between program locations.

  • Explore the Science of Energy

    The program focuses on electrochemistry, the science behind many emerging energy technologies.

    Students will learn about the scientific principles behind:

    • Batteries and energy storage
    • Fuel cells
    • Carbon dioxide conversion
    • Solar photochemistry (converting sunlight into useful products)

    Through guided activities and collaborative learning, students will gain a deeper understanding of how these technologies support a more sustainable energy future.

  • What Students Experience

    Hands-On Learning
    Participate in guided activities and collaborative projects that introduce students to scientific research methods.

    Career Exploration
    Meet scientists and researchers and learn about different pathways into STEM education and careers.

    Technology Exploration
    Engage in introductory workshops covering topics such as coding, artificial intelligence, data analysis, and cybersecurity.

  • Skills Students Will Develop

    Participants strengthen both academic and professional skills, including:

    • Basic laboratory techniques
    • Interpreting and discussing scientific data
    • Communicating scientific ideas clearly
    • Creating and presenting research posters
    • Building professional connections
    • Preparing resumes and future internship applications

    Students will have opportunities to share what they learned with peers and mentors at the end of the program.

  • Program Dates & Locations

    June 22 – July 17, 2026

    The following participants will attend four weeks of program learning activities at the National Laboratory of the Rockies (NLR) in Golden, Colorado:

    • Participants 18 years of age or older from Colorado and California
    • Colorado participants under 18 years of age

    July 20 – July 31, 2026

    Participation during the final two weeks depends on the participant’s age and location:

    Participants who are 18 years of age or older by June 22, 2026, will travel to SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory in Menlo Park, California, for two additional weeks of advanced program learning activities.

    • Colorado participants who are under 18 years of age by June 22, 2026, will complete their program participation on July 17, 2026, after the four-week session at NLR.
    • California participants who are under 18 years of age will participate in the program July 20 – July 31, 2026, at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory in Menlo Park, California.

  • Program Support

    Students selected for the Pathway Summer School receive:

    • $500 weekly stipend
    • Travel support for eligible participants
    • Housing for non-local students
    • Opportunities to learn from scientists and researchers at national laboratories

  • Learning from Scientists and Mentors

    Throughout the program, students interact with scientists and mentors from NLR and SLAC who share their experiences in research and STEM careers.

    Mentors help guide learning activities, answer questions about scientific careers, and provide encouragement as students explore new scientific ideas.

    Workshops on communication, teamwork, and career planning help students build confidence and prepare for future educational opportunities.

  • Program Partners

    The Pathway Summer School is a collaboration between:

    Additional partners include:

    Funding is provided by the U.S. Department of Energy Office of Science Office of Workforce Development for Teachers and Scientists (WDTS).


Explore Science. Discover Possibilities.

Join the NLR–SLAC Pathway Summer School to explore scientific research, learn from scientists, and discover new pathways into STEM education and careers.

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