IRIS Intensive Program for ambitious students from the Middle East

Winter Cohort: December 16, 2024 – January 26, 2025
The IRIS Program is an online research course for high school students (14-19) in Genetics, AI, Comp Science, Engineering, Entrepreneurship, Environmental Science, Economics, or Neuroscience. Collaborate with professors from Stanford, Columbia, UCLA, Cornell, Oxford, and more, and complete a publishable research paper in 6 weeks!
Book a Consultation
Book a Consultation

Why IRIS?

Complete your publishable research paper in just 6 weeks
Join small classes of no more than 11 other students from  30+ countries, 100% online
30+ hours of lessons with top university faculty, plus individualized support from a PhD teaching assistant
All programs are eligible for credit from the University of California (UCSB)
After IRIS, join our Masterclass series on how to use research in your college apps, from our Ivy-grad Indigo execs
New Record
34 students in the last IRIS cohort published in the IJHSR – that’s a >66% acceptance rate for Indigo students!
Record & Prestige
The IJHSR is an A+ rated journal – one of the most competitive journals at the high school level.
College Differentiator
After publishing, our students got into Princeton, Johns Hopkins, Cornell, and many more!
Outcome Oriented
Every IRIS student finishes a paper – but we don’t stop there, guiding them in formatting and submitting to a journal.

IRIS Program Timeline

Registration & Orientation
Study your Welcome Pack and explore our platform to understand the structure of your course. Join the IRIS Orientation to meet your professor.
Pre-IRIS
Prep Reading
Work through carefully selected introductory papers with support from a Harvard PhD Teaching Fellow during office hours.
Week 0
Subject Deep Dive
Meet your instructor and receive a crash course on your subject, reviewing readings, and discussing key terms and topics for your research.
Week 1
Research Foundations
Learn strategies for time management, note-taking, and citation. Explore research paper genres and select a research question.
Week 2
Abstract & Bibliography
Take the time to develop your abstract and annotated bibliography. Organize sources before diving into writing.
Week 3
Begin Writing!
Work on your paper’s intro and outline. Meet one-on-one with your instructor for a guided deeper dive into your research and writing.
Week 4
Workshop Drafts
Participate in writing workshops, prepare your first full draft, engage in peer reviewing exercises and incorporate feedback.
Week 5
Submit & Present
Discuss your full draft in a one-on-one meeting with the instructor, present your work to peers and deliver the final version of your paper!
Week 6

Course offerings

Classes for IRIS Cohorts are held twice a week for 3 hours each. Only 12 spots are available for each course session.
an icon with computer and cables

Computer Science

In our Computer Science course, you'll get to explore current research topics such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, and data science. Even if you have no prior programming experience, you'll be able to learn and apply prepared code sections to your research projects. With a variety of project topics to choose from, including deep learning and natural language processing, you'll be able to explore the exciting and ever-evolving world of computer science.
an icon with diagram and arrow

Economics

In our Economics course, you'll dive into contemporary policy debates, such as responses to the COVID-19 pandemic, while mastering the fundamentals of fiscal policy, regulations, and market dynamics. Through engaging discussions and real-world case studies, you'll develop a deep understanding of how economic forces shape societies and everyday life. The course concludes with each student producing a detailed research paper, applying economic theory and analysis to a current policy issue, allowing for a practical exploration of how economics influences decision-making on a global scale.
an icon with DNA

Genetics

In our Genetics course, you'll get to dive into the complex world of cells and learn about the mechanisms they use to control gene expression. You'll explore how gene misregulation can lead to diseases such as cancer and developmental disorders. By the end of this course, you'll have a broad understanding of gene expression and regulation, be able to critically think about biological problems related to gene regulation, and understand the connection between gene regulation and diseases.
an icon with a brain

Neuroscience

In our Neuroscience course, you'll explore the fundamental cognitive process of memory, delving into cognitive psychology and neuroscience perspectives. Discover distinctions between memory types, including episodic and semantic memory. By the course's end, gain a comprehensive understanding of memory systems, and cognitive neuroscience methods, and conduct a literature review on a memory-related topic of your choice.

Engineering

In our Engineering course, you'll develop your engineering ‘toolbox’, harnessing math, science, computing, and creative skills. You'll will develop a rigorous, evidence-based design addressing a challenge of your choosing by following a structured design process, from initial research and concept generation through to a feasible solution. This course is suitable for a wide range of math and science abilities, and upon completion students will have documented their work as a portfolio piece.

Artificial Intelligence

In our Artificial Intelligence course, you’ll get to explore current research topics such as machine learning, data science, and generative artificial intelligence. Even if you have no prior programming experience, you’ll be able to learn and apply prepared code sections to your research projects. With a variety of project topics to choose from, including deep learning, natural language processing, AI Ethics, recommender systems, computer vision, and generative AI, you’ll be able to explore the exciting and ever-evolving world of artificial intelligence.

Entrepreneurship

In our Entrepreneurship course, you'll engage in interactive discussion sessions, analyze real-world case studies, and complete targeted assignments to master core entrepreneurial concepts and skills. You'll progress through critical stages of entrepreneurship: from ideation and market research to the creation and refinement of a business plan. The course culminates with each student developing and submitting a detailed research paper on their proposed business, which encapsulates their findings and business strategy.

Environmental Science

In our Environmental Science course, you'll analyze environmental case studies, and complete hands-on projects to grasp key concepts in sustainability. You'll explore critical topics such as climate change, renewable energy, and conservation efforts. The course will guide you through the investigation of pressing environmental issues, offering practical experience through sustainability challenges. It culminates in a research paper where each student applies their findings to propose innovative solutions for real-world environmental problems.

Astrophysics

In our Astrophysics course, you'll engage in interactive discussion sessions, analyze real-world astronomical data, and complete targeted assignments to master core astrophysical concepts and observational techniques. You'll explore captivating topics such as black holes, dark matter, exoplanets, and the Big Bang while progressing through critical stages of space observation and data analysis. The course requires no prior experience and culminates with each student developing and submitting a detailed research paper on a topic of their choice, demonstrating their understanding of the mysteries of the universe and the scientific methods used to explore them.
Only 12 spots available per each course session!
Book a Consultation to Learn More
Book a Consultation to Learn More

Meet your IRIS Mentors

A photo of Dr. Debbie H.
Dr. Debbie H.
Oxford University

Dr. Debby H. is an Associate Professor of Human Geography at Oxford, with dual appointments in the School of Geography and the Environment, and the Sustainable Urban Development Program. Her research focuses on sustainability, urbanization, and transport systems.

A photo of Dr. Mark D.
Dr. Mark D.
Carnegie Mellon University

Dr. Mark D. is an Adjunct Professor at Carnegie Mellon, with roles in the Engineering College and Heinz College of Information Systems and Public Policy. He is a tech entrepreneur and CEO of Bloomfield Robotics, having co-founded Roadbotics and kWantera. His research interests include entrepreneurship, AI, energy, and education, and he also lectures at Princeton and Dartmouth.

an image of Dr. Ceyhun E.
Dr. Ceyhun E.
Columbia University

Dr. Ceyhun E. is a Lecturer in Economics at Columbia University and a Professor of Economics at Bogazici University. His research interests are in applied macroeconomics, economic growth, and political economics.

an image of Dr. Eric S.
Dr. Eric S.
Cornell University

Dr. Eric S. is an Associate Professor of Computer Science at Morgan State University and Cornell. His research interests include work in dynamical systems, machine learning, computer systems, and bioinformatics.

an image of Dr. Hannah T.
Dr. Hannah T.
Columbia University

Dr. Hannah T., earned her PhD in psychology from Columbia University in 2023, and is now a postdoctoral research fellow at the Rotman Research Institute in Toronto. Her research examines memory's impact on adaptive behavior, using techniques like eye tracking and MRI to study memory in various groups.

an image of Dr. Iva B.
Dr. Iva B.
University of Leeds

Dr. Iva B. is a Lecturer in Business and Sustainable Societies at the University of Leeds. Ivaʼs research interests are focused, but not limited to the ethical behavior and decision-making in the marketplace, and sustainable consumption and production.

an image of Dr. Hamidreza S.
Dr. Hamidreza S.
Stanford University

Dr. Hamidreza S. serves as a postdoctoral scholar at Stanford University, where his research focuses on developing tools to discover new proteins that regulate GPCRs at the synaptic junction. He is a postdoc under the Nobel Laureate in Medicine, Thomas Südhof.

an image Dr. Jorge A.
Dr. Jorge A.
UCLA

Dr. Jorge A. is currently an Assistant Director at the Undergraduate Research Centers of the University of California, Los Angeles. In this role, he leads several research development programs, including an NSF-funded program to develop underrepresented STEM researchers. Prior to this, he completed a postdoctoral appointment at Rutgers University, under the direction of Dr. Gary Aston-Jones.

A photo of Dr. Kimberly C.
Dr. Kimberly C.
Dartmouth University

Dr. Kimberly C. is a Lecturer in Psychological and Brain Sciences at Dartmouth University. He is the Co-Founder and Chief Research Officer of Merchant Mechanics, working with major clients like Viacom and Coca-Cola. His research focuses on applied neuroscience and consumer behavior, and he is a recipient of the Rockefeller Foundation Grant.

an image of Dr. Siddharth K.
Dr. Siddharth K.
Virginia Tech

Dr. Siddharth K. is a faculty member of Computer Science at UNC Charlotte with 10+ years in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning research, with 25+ publications in leading CS conferences and journals including three best paper awards. He has also led several AI project development and implementation efforts at UNC Charlotte and Virginia Tech.

A photo of Dr. Devin C.
Dr. Devin C.
University of Pennsylvania

Dr. Devin C. is a Lecturer in Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics at the University of Pennsylvania. His research interests include robotics, design, mechanical engineering, and found materials. Notably, he is a Guinness World Record Holder and has delivered a TEDx talk for creating the "First robot made from ice."

A photo of Andrea Giusti wearing glasses and a dark jumper.
Dr. Andrea G.
Cambridge University and Imperial College London

Dr. Andrea G. is a Supervisor and Bye-Fellow in Mechanical Engineering at Cambridge University and serves as an Associate Professor in Thermofluids and Mechanical Engineering at Imperial College. His research interests span mechanics, thermodynamics, electromagnetism, nanomaterial science, and sustainability. Additionally, he is the Editor-in-Chief of the International Journal of Spray and Combustion Dynamics.

an image of Dr. Eric S.
Dr. Eric S., 
Cornell University

Dr. Eric S. is an Associate Professor of Computer Science at Morgan State University and Cornell. His research interests include work in dynamical systems, machine learning, computer systems, and bioinformatics.

an image of Dr. Hannah T.
Dr. Hannah T., 
Columbia University

Dr. Hannah T., who earned her PhD in psychology from Columbia University in 2023, is currently a postdoctoral research fellow at the Rotman Research Institute in Toronto. Her research focuses on how memory influences adaptive behavior, using methods like eye tracking and magnetic resonance imaging to study memory in healthy young adults, older adults, and individuals with epilepsy.

an image of Dr. Iva B.
Dr. Iva B., 
University of Leeds

Dr. Iva B. is a Lecturer in Business and Sustainable Societies at the University of Leeds. Ivaʼs research interests are focused, but not limited to the ethical behavior and decision-making in the marketplace, and sustainable consumption and production.

Hear from our students

an image of Aleesha B.
Aleesha B.
Accepted for publication
in IJHSR

"There was a lot of support, and the environment in the IRIS course was incredibly encouraging and collaborative. I felt comfortable talking to both my peers and my advisors. It is an intensive course that provides amazing information and connections, fostering engaging research environments. I appreciate the diversity of the students and the friendliness and inclusivity of the professors and staff"

Lily S.

"It was truly a game-changing experience! Our professor was very lovely and understanding of each student's situation, and her literature was always helpful. This was a significant change for me, especially as a non-English speaker. I'm not proficient in English, but studying and reading journals and articles in a completely new field were crucial for developing my English and research skills"

an image of Aleesha B.
Aleesha B.
Accepted for publication
in IJHSR

"There was a lot of support, and the environment in the IRIS course was incredibly encouraging and collaborative. I felt comfortable talking to both my peers and my advisors. It is an intensive course that provides amazing information and connections, fostering engaging research environments. I appreciate the diversity of the students and the friendliness and inclusivity of the professors and staff"

Sakhi K.

"IRIS greatly helped me understand the field of research. I received incredibly helpful feedback, and I believe this course has prepared me for my future. Our professor was extremely supportive and understanding. He clearly communicated his expectations and suggestions, while also being understanding when we fell behind or faced challenges. He created a fun and safe learning environment and provided outstanding feedback. His teaching style made the topics interesting and engaging to learn about!"

an image of Aleesha B.
Aleesha B.
Accepted for publication
in IJHSR

"There was a lot of support, and the environment in the IRIS course was incredibly encouraging and collaborative. I felt comfortable talking to both my peers and my advisors. It is an intensive course that provides amazing information and connections, fostering engaging research environments. I appreciate the diversity of the students and the friendliness and inclusivity of the professors and staff"

Alina T.

"My mentor was incredibly supportive and provided me with valuable feedback throughout the course. Each session was insightful and proved to be a valuable experience. As someone new to conducting research, this course guided me along the path to success. The group activities allowed me to connect with my peers, and observing others' research projects was truly exciting!"

an image of Aleesha B.
Aleesha B.
Accepted for publication
in IJHSR

"There was a lot of support, and the environment in the IRIS course was incredibly encouraging and collaborative. I felt comfortable talking to both my peers and my advisors. It is an intensive course that provides amazing information and connections, fostering engaging research environments. I appreciate the diversity of the students and the friendliness and inclusivity of the professors and staff"

Vahag M.
Accepted for publication in IJHSR

"I was generally pleased with the amount of resources and assistance provided by the IRIS team. The professor was particularly helpful and encouraging throughout my research process. I found the course to be excellent for those conducting research for the first time or for anyone seeking professional guidance"

an image of Aleesha B.
Aleesha B.
Accepted for publication
in IJHSR

"There was a lot of support, and the environment in the IRIS course was incredibly encouraging and collaborative. I felt comfortable talking to both my peers and my advisors. It is an intensive course that provides amazing information and connections, fostering engaging research environments. I appreciate the diversity of the students and the friendliness and inclusivity of the professors and staff"

Mohamed A.
Accepted for publication in IJHSR

"The course has provided an excellent introduction to scientific research. Beyond being just an introduction, it effectively equips students to create high-quality research outcomes. IRIS is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I firmly believe it stands as the ultimate chance for any student eager to delve into scientific research, explore their field of interest, and craft highly respected research papers"

an image of Aleesha B.
Aleesha B.
Accepted for publication
in IJHSR

"There was a lot of support, and the environment in the IRIS course was incredibly encouraging and collaborative. I felt comfortable talking to both my peers and my advisors. It is an intensive course that provides amazing information and connections, fostering engaging research environments. I appreciate the diversity of the students and the friendliness and inclusivity of the professors and staff"

Aleesha B.
Accepted for publication in IJHSR

"There was a lot of support, and the environment in the IRIS course was incredibly encouraging and collaborative. I felt comfortable talking to both my peers and my advisors. It is an intensive course that provides amazing information and connections, fostering engaging research environments. I appreciate the diversity of the students and the friendliness and inclusivity of the professors and staff"

What our students say about IRIS

an image of Aleesha B.
Aleesha B.
Accepted for publication
in IJHSR

"There was a lot of support, and the environment in the IRIS course was incredibly encouraging and collaborative. I felt comfortable talking to both my peers and my advisors. It is an intensive course that provides amazing information and connections, fostering engaging research environments. I appreciate the diversity of the students and the friendliness and inclusivity of the professors and staff"

an image of Mohamed A.
Mohamed A.
Accepted for publication
in IJHSR

"The course has provided an excellent introduction to scientific research. Beyond being just an introduction, it effectively equips students to create high-quality research outcomes. IRIS is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. I firmly believe it stands as the ultimate chance for any student eager to delve into scientific research, explore their field of interest, and craft highly respected research papers"

An image of Vahag M.
Vahag M.
Accepted for publication
in IJHSR

"I was generally pleased with the amount of resources and assistance provided by the IRIS team. The professor was particularly helpful and encouraging throughout my research process. I found the course to be excellent for those conducting research for the first time or for anyone seeking professional guidance"

An image of Alina T.
Alina T.

"My mentor was incredibly supportive and provided me with valuable feedback throughout the course. Each session was insightful and proved to be a valuable experience. As someone new to conducting research, this course guided me along the path to success. The group activities allowed me to connect with my peers, and observing others' research projects was truly exciting!"

An image of Sakhi K.
Sakhi K.

"IRIS greatly helped me understand the field of research. I received incredibly helpful feedback, and I believe this course has prepared me for my future. Our professor was extremely supportive and understanding. He clearly communicated his expectations and suggestions, while also being understanding when we fell behind or faced challenges. He created a fun and safe learning environment and provided outstanding feedback. His teaching style made the topics interesting and engaging to learn about!"

an image of Lily S.
Lily S.

"It was truly a game-changing experience! Our professor was very lovely and understanding of each student's situation, and her literature was always helpful. This was a significant change for me, especially as a non-English speaker. I'm not proficient in English, but studying and reading journals and articles in a completely new field were crucial for developing my English and research skills"

Why do research in high school

Contribute
to Your Research Field

No matter your passion, Indigo Research will help you turn it into real-world contributions to your field by working with you to develop your expertise and publish your findings in academic journals.

Make Your Applications Stand Out

Research experience will demonstrate your intellectual curiosity, academic talent, and expertise in tackling complex projects.

Study with
Top US & UK Professors

You’ll be guided by PhDs and faculty researchers from top US and UK universities who work at the cutting edge of their fields.

Cultivate
Your
Expertise

By doing research, you’ll develop the analytical, writing, and research techniques needed to advance through college, graduate school, and beyond.

How the IRIS Program works

1. Choose a course

Choose one of the offered courses to learn from experienced professors and researchers and to participate in workshops and seminars on research methodology, data analysis, and communication skills.

2.Collaborate with peers

During the IRIS program you will work with top university professors and researchers in a small group setting of 3-10 people. This is a great opportunity to collaborate with like-minded peers from all over the world!

3. Present your project in class

Sharpen your communication skills as you present your findings in class. Receive valuable feedback from other like-minded students and mentor to take your research to the next level.

4. Get a certificate & publish

Receive a signed certificate of IRIS program completion to enhance your portfolio and distinguish yourself from other college applicants! Plus, seize the opportunity to publish your research in one of our partner academic journals!

Optional course:
English Scientific Language
and Analysis

Would like additional assistance conducting research in the English language?

An image of Joani Etskowitz
Work with a Harvard Teaching Fellow, PhD(c) on how to understand and analyze scientific literature in the English language. Joani E., PhD(c) has been awarded a Distinction in Teaching recognition by Harvard University.

This supplemental course is perfect for students who:

Would like hands-on writing workshops to perfect their research paper 
Would like to improve their oral presentation skills
Would like to grow their field-based vocabulary

Student Outcomes

IRIS Economics Student: Accepted to Cornell University
The Economic Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on the Hospitality Industry
By Michael B.
Mentor
Ceyhun E., Columbia University
IRIS Genetics Student: Accepted to Johns Hopkins
Unlocking the Genetic Link between Kabuki Syndrome and Schizophrenia: Implications for Diagnosis and Treatment
By Minkyung S.
Mentor
Albert B., King's College London
IRIS Economics Student: Accepted to University of Toronto
Intergenerational communication for multilingual families: does language matter?
By Yuxin S.
Mentor
Nora I., Columbia University
IRIS Computer Science Student: Accepted to Rice University
Approximation of Trigonometric Functions Utilizing Feedforward Neural Networks
By Ian S.
Mentor
Eric S., Cornell University

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I miss a class session?

In the off chance you're not able to attend one of the virtual class sessions, you can let the course administrator know, and she will send you a recording of the class you missed, as well as any homework or other instructions you may need. Be sure to give the Professor a heads up that you won't be able to attend!

Do you guarantee letters of recommendation?

We encourage all students to ask for recommendation letters that might help showcase their initiative and passion. While we cannot guarantee letters of recommendation – it would be unethical to do so –, Indigo mentors have been known to write excellent letters for students who complete their papers and are highly engaged during sessions.

What if I need more time to finish my paper?

The IRIS program has been designed to allow the vast majority of students to complete a 3-6 page paper in the time allotted. If you decide to write a longer paper, or you need more time to complete the 3-6 page paper, please contact your course administrator. She will help you assess whether or not you need more 1:1 sessions, or if offline support would be sufficient.

How do I get my paper published?

We teach students all the ins and outs of publishing research and offer a comprehensive database of journal and competition options for high school researchers. On top of that, Indigo also offers detailed guidelines and streamlined processes to submit to some of our partner journals. If you would like to get 1:1 guidance on getting published, you may purchase this separately, and a mentor will help you choose a target journal and complete all necessary steps for publication.

Student Outcomes

A record 16 research papers from students in our last edition of IRIS were published in the International Journal of High School Research (IJHSR) – a prestigious achievement in the academic world!
The IJHSR is renowned for its rigorous standards and for being one of the most competitive journals for high schoolers, making this a remarkable feat for young IRIS scholars.
Read IJHSR issue
Read IJHSR issue

Don't wait to start preparing for top universities!

Complete the form to receive the ebook containing all the program details and connect with our Research Advisor to discuss enrollment options.
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