About Research Ignited
Where students do original work with real mentors
We're a team of PhD researchers, engineers and industry practitioners on a mission to give middle and high school students something rare — the chance to do genuine, mentored work in a field they actually care about, and to finish it with something real to show for it.
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. Whatever draws a student in — scientific research, engineering, computing or the life sciences — we pair them with accomplished mentors and a clear path from first idea to finished, real-world project.
How we teach
One model, whatever the subject
Our programs span scientific research, engineering, computing and the life sciences — and every one of them is built the same way. Students learn live, in small groups, from someone who works in the field, and they finish with something they made.
Start with a live lab
Small online cohorts taught live by a working researcher or engineer — never pre-recorded video. Students explore a field properly before committing to it, and most need no prior experience.
Go deeper where it clicks
Once a student knows what holds their attention, they can specialize — computational work, hardware they build and operate, or an applied lab in their chosen domain.
Finish with original research
The capstone across every field: one-to-one with a PhD mentor on a question the student chose, carried through to a finished paper, presentation or defended design.
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 working researchers, engineers and industry practitioners at leading institutions — not pre-recorded courses.
🎓
Outcomes that matter
A published paper, a working prototype, a defended design — 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 →