Through the emerging field of bio-nanotechnology, students from UK high schools were provided with an opportunity to explore the use of DNA as a self-assembly building material to create unique DNA origami designs and evaluate these using web-based software. The project helped widen awareness of the cutting-edge research within materials science, enabled the participants to work with a high degree of independence, and reinforced the practical techniques required to synthesize a predesigned origami structure at school. This article describes the results of a study of this long-term, student-led independent research project. We collected data from 51 young people aged 16-19 engaged in the project using group interviews and found authentic research experiences can foster greater personal autonomy, sustain engagement, and be used to improve the perception of subjects such as materials science. The project also gave participants a greater understanding of the broader scene relating to careers within STEM and research as well as improved research skills through thinking and acting like a researcher.