About Research Ignited
Where students become published researchers & AI builders
We're a team of PhD researchers and AI professionals on a mission to ignite a love of research and curiosity for artificial intelligence in middle and high school students — and to give them the mentorship to turn that spark into real, college-defining work.
Our mission
Curiosity is the spark that ignites innovation
Research Ignited gives students transformative learning experiences that help them excel in college admissions and future careers. Whether a student dreams of publishing original research or building with AI, we pair them with accomplished mentors and a clear path from first idea to finished, real-world project.
What we do
Two paths, one goal: meaningful work students are proud of
Research Track
Our flagship. Students conduct original, college-level research one-on-one with a PhD mentor — in any field, including AI — with the goal of publication in a recognized journal.
High School Research Program →AI Track
A hands-on skills ladder — from building your first AI agents, to specialized labs in Finance, Medicine, Cyber-Defense and Robotics, to advanced AI/ML and AI-driven research.
Explore the AI programs →24+PhD & expert mentors
14research fields
Publishedstudent authors
100%online, worldwide
Why families choose us
Mentorship that turns into a real outcome
👩🔬
Real PhD mentors
One-on-one guidance from researchers and AI professionals at leading institutions — not pre-recorded courses.
🎓
Outcomes that matter
A published paper or a deployed AI project — concrete work that stands out in college admissions.
🤝
Fit first, always
Students meet our director and a mentor before enrolling — we only move forward when it's a great fit on both sides.
Our team
Led by researchers who love to teach
Dr. Marissa Seamon
Program Director · PhD, Neuroscience
Marissa leads our programs and personally meets with applicants to understand their goals and match them with the right mentor. She's supported by a dedicated team and a network of 24+ PhD mentors across the sciences, engineering, social sciences, and AI.
Get in touch
We'd love to hear from you
Phone+1 (919) 213-1821
Location964 High House Rd PMB 2144,
Cary, NC 27513
Cary, NC 27513
Take the first step
Tell us about the student's goals and we'll recommend the right path — research or AI. No pressure.
Talk to an Advisor →