The RIKEN Information R&D and Strategy Headquarters(R-IH) offers a fully funded internship program in Japan for 2025. The Guardian Robot Project (GRP) Internship 2025 at RIKEN is designed for undergraduate and graduate students interested in robotics research. The RIKEN R-IH Summer Internship program provides hands-on experience in cutting-edge robotics by integrating interns into GRP research teams, helping them develop skills in advanced R&D.
The RIKEN R-IH Summer Internship program aims to nurture future researchers by immersing interns in cutting-edge robotics development. This internship provides a unique platform to enhance technical skills, expand professional networks, and explore real-world applications of robotics in a dynamic research environment. The Application Deadline is 24 March 2024.
University/Institutions
- Name: RIKEN – Guardian Robot Project (GRP)
- Place: Saitama, Japan
- Ranking: RIKEN is Japan’s top research institution, known for excellence in scientific and technological research.
- Programs: Internship Programs
- Duration: Typically 1 to 3 months during Summer 2025
- Internship Duration
- Long Stay Program (Type A)：24th July to 19th September 2025 (8 Weeks)
- Short Stay Program (Type B)：21st August to 19th September 2025 (4 Weeks)
Study Areas for RIKEN R-IH Summer Internship
- Robotics Engineering
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Human-Robot Interaction
- Automation & Control Systems
- Machine Learning & Computer Vision
RIKEN R-IH Summer Internship Benefits
Covered Expenses (as per RIKEN Travel Policy)
- Travel: One round-trip airfare or bullet train (Shinkansen) fare (based on distance).
- Accommodation: ¥11,100 per day.
- Daily Allowance: ¥2,400 per day.
- Total First-Month Support: ¥393,900 (for 29 nights/30 days).
- Second-Month Support (Type A students): 90% of the full amount (¥354,510).
- Reimbursement Timing: After the first month (Type A & B), and again after the second month (Type A).
- Overseas Bank Transfers: May take time; students must cover daily expenses until reimbursement.
- Local Students (within 50 km of RIKEN): Only commuting expenses covered.
Benefits Not Included
Applicants are responsible for covering the cost of travel to and from Taiwan using the stipend provided.
Eligibilities for RIKEN R-IH Summer Internship
- Open to undergraduate and graduate students (Japan & overseas).
- Applicants must be enrolled in a university throughout the program period.
- A formal letter of request and agreement from the university is required.
- Students from universities with a collaborative research plan with GRP (e.g., Kyoto University, Doshisha University, Nara Institute of Science and Technology) are not eligible.
- Working Hours
- Monday to Friday (RIKEN workdays)
- 9:00 AM – 5:20 PM (Lunch Break: 12:00 – 12:50)
- Reimbursement Conditions: Requires submission of required documents; failure to follow policy may lead to reduced reimbursement.
- Flight Booking: Do not book your ticket until RIKEN provides instructions.
Required Documents
- CV – Use RIKEN’s official format
- Motivation Letter – Free format; must include:
- Research team name
- Research theme
- Preferred program (Type A or B)
- Research Achievements – Free format
- Internship Project – Finalized with host PI after acceptance
Privacy Note: Personal information is strictly protected and used only for screening. Documents will not be returned.
Application Documents & Deadlines
- Submission Email: robotics-info@ml.riken.jp
- Deadline: March 24, 2025 (Monday) at 15:00 JST
- Flexible Deadline: Contact RIKEN if you need an extension for academic reasons
RIKEN R-IH Summer Internship Application Process
- Visit the official RIKEN GRP Internship webpage.
- Identify a host research lab and contact the faculty.
- Submit required documents (CV, motivation letter, and academic transcripts).
- Application should be at least 4 months before the intended start date.
Tips for Successful Application
- Ensure all required documents are complete and submitted before the deadline.
- Clearly articulate your research interests and how they align with RIKEN IMS’s objectives.
- Highlight any relevant research achievements or experiences.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students
- Accommodation: ¥50,000–¥80,000
- Food & Groceries: ¥30,000–¥50,000
- Transportation: ¥10,000–¥20,000
- Personal Expenses: ¥20,000–¥40,000
- Total Estimated Cost: ¥110,000–¥190,000 (Approx. $750–$1,300 USD)
Why Choose This Opportunity?
Participating in the RIKEN IMS Internship Program allows you to engage in cutting-edge medical research, collaborate with leading scientists, and experience Japan’s rich culture. This opportunity enhances your research skills and broadens your professional network.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the RIKEN IMS Internship Program 2025?
- It is a fully funded research internship in Japan for master’s, PhD students, and young postdoctoral researchers, lasting 1 to 3 months.
- Who is eligible to apply?
- Master’s or PhD students and young postdocs within three years of obtaining their PhD, enrolled in an academic institution during the internship.
- What financial support does the internship provide?
- The program covers lodging, travel expenses, and a daily allowance of 3,000 yen for students. Postdocs receive lodging and travel expenses but no daily allowance.
- How long does the internship last?
- The duration ranges from 1 to 3 months, depending on the research project and agreement with the host laboratory.
- What is the application process?
- Applicants must contact a RIKEN IMS laboratory directly, discuss a research topic, and submit the required documents, including a CV and research proposal, at least four months before the desired start date.
Official Link for More Details and Application
For more information and application details, please visit the official RIKEN IMS Internship Program page
