VIP applications will open February 16, 2026.

The NRI is preparing for the seventh year of its Virtual Internship Program (VIP), a fully online program designed to introduce high school students to the field of nutrition research. Building on the strong momentum of recent years, VIP 2026 will again connect students from across the country through a structured four-week virtual program focused on scientific thinking, research communication, and mentorship.

Through live online lectures, interactive sessions, and small-group mentoring, students engage with NRI faculty, postdoctoral researchers, and staff. The program is designed to provide a realistic introduction to how nutrition research is conducted while offering early exposure to careers in science and research. A central focus of VIP is helping students learn how scientists communicate complex ideas clearly and effectively in professional settings.

VIP 2026 will continue its emphasis on scientific posters as a core learning outcome. Scientific posters are a primary way researchers share their work in academic and professional environments, and they provide an accessible format for students to present research visually and concisely. By the end of the program, students will have developed a poster they can present and include as part of their academic portfolio.

Program Details

• 4-week, online-only program for high school students (rising ninth graders to rising college freshmen)
• Sessions are held every Tuesday and Thursday in June, from 1-2 PM. Introductory and concluding sessions are 1-2:30 PM.
• Students present their work to peers and NRI scientists during the final week of the program. The top 3 posters will be selected for poster awards.
• Applications open on February 16 and close on March 23, 2026.
• For accepted students, a $25 registration fee is required to reserve a spot in the program.
• Scholarships are available for a limited number of students. 

All applicants will be notified of their acceptance status April 1, 2026.

VIP Schedule 2026