This project will provide two high school students with a six-week paid summer research internship focused on sustainable water treatment technologies through a partnership between SUNY ESF and the MercyWorks Synergy Internship Program. Designed to expand STEM opportunities for underserved and underrepresented students, the structured internship combines hands-on laboratory research with leadership development and workforce training. Under the mentorship of faculty and graduate students, participants will complete guided projects focused on converting low-grade forest residue biomass into sustainable adsorbent materials for water treatment. One student will develop biochar-based adsorbents, while the second will prepare cellulose nanocrystal-based adsorbents. Using established laboratory protocols, students will evaluate adsorbent performance for removal of model contaminants from water while learning concepts related to sustainability, resource recovery, and circular bioeconomy. At the conclusion of the internship, students will present their findings at a regional student research competition, strengthening communication skills and increasing awareness of STEM education and career pathways in environmental science, engineering, and water-related careers.