<p>Hi, so, I'm a sophomore at a top-tier school, and there seems to be a noticeable lack of research opportunities for rising juniors. I attend a prestigious New England private school, and I have TONS of background knowledge in math/physics -- probably equivalent to a typical math major in their junior year (if this is relevant, my knowledge has definitely been focused on analysis, in particular I've been working towards research in differential geometry). Definitely enough for me to do some introductory math research and write a paper on it by myself, but I'm looking for more of an experience than staying home and researching in my house all summer. Are there any opportunities to assist professors/post-docs/graduate students in research? Would it be appropriate to ask the about paid internships? Any guidance would be greatly appreciated. As I noted above, I currently attend a boarding school, so I have no problem with living by myself if the stipend is enough. Also, I do not necessarily seek to do research in math or physics; I would be eager to complete research in any of the physical sciences, it's just my knowledge in math is far more advanced than that of either chemistry or biology. Any thoughts on this are greatly appreciated.</p>
<p>As a side note, I am aware of many programs like Stanford Summer Session, AwesomeMath, PROMYS, etc. (I attended Canada/USA Mathcamp this past summer) that teach math, but instead I'm looking to aid/participate in research. I am also aware of programs such as RSI and SSP, but almost all of these programs seem to only be available to students completing their junior or senior years of high school. I am also aware I can write to many professors to ask about assisting their lab research, but I am under the impression these kinds of opportunities are only feasible for those who could commute on a daily basis. Thanks for your help in advance.</p>