The UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program 2026 offers a prestigious and fully funded summer research internship at the University of Tokyo, Japan, designed for outstanding undergraduate students passionate about biomedical and life sciences. This unique program provides an exciting opportunity to gain hands-on research experience under the guidance of top faculty, along with cultural immersion in the vibrant academic environment of Japan’s leading university. Below is a detailed guide covering everything you need to know about the UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program 2026, including eligibility, application process, benefits, and how to make your application stand out.
Basic Information & Application Deadline
- Offers 8 weeks of biomedical research at the University of Tokyo (UTokyo).
- For undergraduate students interested in biology or related sciences and planning for graduate studies (Ph.D.).
- Provides hands-on lab experience, research skill development, and international networking.
- Program Duration: 8 weeks (June to August 2026)
- Application Deadline: February 1, 2026, 3:00 PM JST (Japan Standard Time)
- Application Mode: Online via the official UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program portal
- Number of Scholarships: About 10 scholars selected annually
- Target Group: Undergraduate students mainly from Asia interested in pursuing biomedical research and graduate studies
This deadline is strictly enforced, so it’s advisable to start preparing your application and documents well in advance.
University & Program Host Details
- Host Institution: University of Tokyo (UTokyo), Japan
- Campus: Near Hongo Campus, Tokyo
- Program Supported by: Amgen Foundation
- Research Fields: Biomedical sciences and related life science disciplines
- Program Features: Access to UTokyo’s advanced research laboratories, campus facilities including library and health care, seminars, cultural excursions, and networking with international scholars
UTokyo is globally renowned for its research excellence and provides an enriching environment for scholars who want to elevate their scientific knowledge and research capabilities.
| Program | Date (* subject to change) |
|---|---|
| Check-in at Residence | June 3, 2026 |
| UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program 2026 | June 4, 2025 – July 31, 2026 |
| Amgen Scholars Asia Symposium 2026 at UTokyo | August 4 – 6, 2026 |
| Check-out from Reidence | August 7, 2026 |
Program Features
- Full-time lab research for 8 weeks.
- Seminars, discussions, and cultural events.
- Access to UTokyo facilities (library, gym, health center).
- Japanese language classes and excursions included.
Schedule (2026)
- Check-in: June 3
- Program: June 4 – July 31
- Amgen Scholars Asia Symposium: August 4–6
- Check-out: August 7
- Full participation required for the entire duration.
Study Areas / Available Program Names
The program primarily focuses on biomedical and life sciences research, including but not limited to:
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
- Neuroscience
- Biomedical Engineering
- Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Agricultural and Life Sciences
- Translational Sciences
Participants conduct research projects under faculty mentorship from various Graduate Schools such as Medicine, Engineering, Science, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Agricultural and Life Sciences, and the Institute of Industrial Science.
Projects:
| Graduate School / Institute | Host Professor | Research Topic | Area of Research |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graduate School of Medicine | Haruhiko BITO | 1. Molecular and circuit mechanisms of long-term memory2. Imaging analysis of cortical information processing | Neuroscience, Neurobiology, Molecular, Cell & Developmental Biology |
| Meng Ling MOI | Development of next-generation vaccines and diagnostics for neglected tropical viral diseases through basic virology and immunology research | Microbiology, Immunology, Molecular Medicine | |
| Hiroki R. UEDA | Sleep, circadian rhythms, and systems biology | Bioinformatics, Biology, Neuroscience | |
| Graduate School of Engineering | Horacio CABRAL | Development of polymeric nanocarriers for targeted gene editing applications | Bioengineering, Molecular, Cell & Developmental Biology, Biotechnology |
| Fumiya IIDA | Modelling and control of neuro-musculoskeletal human hand; development of bio-inspired robots | Bioengineering, Neuroscience, Biology | |
| Kazuhiro TAKANABE | Sustainable production of hydrogen using renewable energy sources | Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering | |
| Graduate School of Science | Keisuke GODA | Developing innovative tools for molecular imaging and spectroscopy by integrating photonics, nanotechnology, microfluidics, and data science | Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering |
| Yasushi OKADA | Development and application of new optical microscopes for super-resolution or single-molecule imaging in living cells or in vitro | Biotechnology, Molecular, Cell & Developmental Biology, Neurobiology | |
| Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences | Yasuyuki GOTO | Immune responses against parasite infection | Immunology, Microbiology, Pathology |
| Naoyuki KATAOKA | RNA splicing and diseases caused by aberrant splicing | Biochemistry, Biology, Molecular, Cell & Developmental Biology | |
| Keitaro TANOI | Imaging analysis using a transient expression system for plant proteins | Biology, Microbiology, Biotechnology | |
| Graduate School of Arts and Sciences | Miho YANAGISAWA | 1. Mimicking cellular functions using synthetic cells2. Understanding intracellular phase transitions from the perspective of soft matter and polymer physics | Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Statistics |
| Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences | Yuichiro NAKAJIMA | Understanding cellular and organismal plasticity in response to environmental changes | Molecular, Cell & Developmental Biology, Biology, Bioinformatics |
| Institute of Industrial Science | Yoshiho IKEUCHI | Engineering neural tissues generated in vitro | Bioengineering, Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering, Neuroscience |
| Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology | Sadao OTA | Development of innovative bio-measurement technologies by integrating optics, fluidics, information science, chemistry, bioengineering, and life science | Biotechnology, Bioengineering, Chemical & Biomolecular Engineering |
UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program Benefits
The UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program offers a fully funded package that includes:
- About 10 students will be selected.
- Accommodation: Provided near UTokyo campus.
- Travel: Round-trip economy airfare or domestic train tickets covered.
- Stipend: 280,000 JPY (for food, local travel, personal expenses).
- Extra allowance for those commuting to other campuses.
- Campus Facilities Access: Use of the university’s library, gymnasium, and health care center
- Cultural Activities: Participation in Japanese cultural events, excursions, and networking seminars
- Research Experience: Hands-on laboratory research with guidance from UTokyo faculty experts
- Symposium: Opportunities to present research findings at a closing symposium or poster session
This comprehensive support allows students to fully focus on their research and cultural experience without financial worries.
Benefits Not Included
- Health and Travel Insurance: Students must arrange their own private health and travel insurance before arriving in Japan. Neither Amgen Foundation nor UTokyo provides insurance coverage.
- Personal Expenses: Any personal expenses beyond the stipend for food, travel, and leisure activities are the responsibility of the student.
Planning for these costs is essential for a smooth stay in Tokyo.
Eligibility Criteria for UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program
Applicants must meet the following requirements to be considered:
- Be undergraduate students at universities in the Asia region.
- Have completed at least 1 year of study.
- Not graduate before the program starts (must return for at least one semester afterward).
- Have a strong academic record.
- Have an interest in pursuing a Ph.D.
- Demonstrate proficiency in English (minimum scores):
- TOEFL iBT 72
- IELTS overall band 5.5
- Cambridge English FCE
- TOEIC total score 1095 or equivalent
- Be interested in pursuing a PhD in biomedical or life sciences
- Commit to attending the full duration of the 8-week program and participating fully in research activities and program events.
Expectations
- Attend all program activities, meetings, and symposiums.
- Live in the provided accommodation.
- Work full-time in the assigned lab and respect lab rules.
- Present research in oral and poster formats.
- No jobs or other courses allowed during the program period.
Required Documents for Application
To apply, you must prepare and submit the following:
- Recent portrait photo (jpeg format)
- Copy of passport or national ID card
- CV/Resume detailing academic and research experience (Word format typically)
- Official academic transcripts (in English, PDF format)
- Completed questionnaire form provided by the program (Excel format)
- Proof of English language proficiency (score reports)
- Signed consent form
- Two letters of recommendation, one must be from a faculty member familiar with your academic background
Note: Recommendation letters are not submitted by the applicant but by the recommenders using instructions provided by the program.
UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program Application Process (Step-by-Step Guide)
- Create an Account: Register at the dedicated TAO online application portal for the UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program.
- Prepare Documents: Collect all required supporting documents as per the guidelines.
- Complete Application Form: Fill out all fields carefully in English on the online portal.
- Nominate Recommenders: Enter contact information of two recommenders who will submit your letters electronically.
- Upload Documents: Attach your photo, passport, transcripts, CV, questionnaire, and other required files.
- Submit Application: Review all details thoroughly before submitting. Once submitted, changes are not allowed.
- Follow Up: Monitor your application status and check emails for communication from the program office.
- Wait for Results: Notifications generally come mid-March. Successful candidates will receive further instructions on arrival and program commencement procedures.
- Students from the USA can apply from here
- Students from Europe can apply from here
- Students from Australia/New Zealand/Oceania can apply from here
- Students from Asia can apply from here (Enrolled in an Asian university pursuing a bachelor’s degree).
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start early to ensure all documents, especially recommendation letters, are ready before the deadline.
- Showcase your passion for biomedical research and your motivation for pursuing a PhD.
- Include specific examples of academic achievements and relevant research experiences in your CV and cover letter.
- Demonstrate clear English language proficiency to meet or exceed the minimum score requirements.
- Reach out for advice through official channels or alumni but avoid directly contacting faculty members.
- Proofread all parts of your application to avoid errors or missing information.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students in Tokyo (Converted to USD)
Living costs in Tokyo are among the highest in Japan. Based on official data:
- Rent: Approx. 58,000 JPY (~$420 USD) for a single student room near campus
- Food: Around 40,000 JPY (~$290 USD)
- Utilities & Transportation: Estimated at 20,000 JPY (~$145 USD)
- Miscellaneous: Around 10,000 JPY (~$70 USD)
Total monthly living expense averages about $925 USD. The 280,000 JPY stipend covers essential needs during the eight weeks of the program, but budgeting carefully is recommended.
Why Choose the UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program? Top 5 Reasons
- Fully Funded Internship: Financial support including housing, airfare, and stipend lets you focus on research fully.
- Prestigious Institution: Work at the University of Tokyo, one of Asia’s top universities with world-class researchers.
- Hands-on Biomedical Research: Gain practical experience in cutting-edge labs in multiple biomedical fields.
- Cultural Immersion: Participate in Japanese cultural events, excursions, and build friendships with international peers.
- Career Development: Enhance your profile for graduate school applications and future research collaborations.
Bonus: The program offers unique seminars and networking opportunities to connect with scholars and industry leaders.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Who is eligible to apply?
A: Undergraduate students in Asia who have completed at least one year of studies and meet English proficiency requirements.
Q2: Can I apply if I graduate before the program starts?
A: No, applicants must not graduate before the program begins and must resume studies afterward.
Q3: Is health insurance provided?
A: No, participants must arrange their own health and travel insurance.
Q4: Are recommendation letters required?
A: Yes, two letters are necessary and must be submitted by faculty recommenders.
Q5: When will I know if I am accepted?
A: Results are typically announced by mid-March, after the February 1st application deadline.
Q6: Can I work or take courses during the program?
A: No, you must devote full time to research and program activities during the internship.
Official Link:
Start your journey towards an enriching international research experience by applying for the UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program 2026 today. Make sure to prepare thoroughly and submit before the February 1, 2026 deadline for a chance to advance your academic and research career at Japan’s top university.
