RIKEN IMS Internship Program, offering outstanding opportunities for talented Master’s, PhD students, and early-career postdoctoral researchers to gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge biomedical research in Japan. This prestigious internship is hosted at the RIKEN Yokohama campus and supports international participants through travel, accommodation, and daily living allowances (for students).
The IMS Internship Program promotes international collaboration and scientific development by offering access to world-class laboratories in areas such as genome-wide medical science, immunology, physiology, and bioinformatics. With full support from RIKEN IMS, interns can immerse themselves in an advanced research environment while contributing meaningfully to ongoing scientific work.
Internship Benefits
The RIKEN IMS Internship Program 2025 offers comprehensive support for both students and young postdoctoral researchers. Benefits include:
- Internship Allowance (Students Only): A daily allowance of 3,000 yen per working day (for Category 1: students).
- Travel Support: Round-trip international airfare is covered for all selected participants.
- Accommodation Support: Fully funded lodging with tiered daily caps based on length of stay: 11,600 yen/day for stays of 1–30 days; 10,440 yen/day for 31–60 days; 9,280 yen/day for stays over 60 days
- Duration: Internships can last from 1 to 3 months, depending on the agreement with the host lab.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the RIKEN IMS Internship Program 2025, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Enrollment in Academic Program:
- Category 1: Applicants must be enrolled in a Master’s, PhD, or equivalent-level medical program during the internship period.
- Category 2: Applicants must be young postdoctoral researchers within 3 years of obtaining a PhD and also be enrolled in an academic institution.
- Academic Commitment: Applicants must demonstrate a genuine interest in gaining international research experience and career development through this internship.
- Research Alignment: The applicant’s proposed research topic should align with the work of their chosen host laboratory at RIKEN IMS.
- Dependence on the Program: Applicants should not be able to pursue the internship without financial support from the program.
- Language and Document Requirements: All application documents must be submitted in English. Applications in Japanese will not be accepted.
Application Process
Applying for the RIKEN IMS Internship Program involves several steps. Here’s how to apply:
- Identify a Host Laboratory: Visit the RIKEN IMS laboratories list and identify a lab that matches your research interests. Reach out to the lab directly to confirm they can host interns for FY2025.
- Discuss Your Research Topic: Coordinate with the selected team leader to propose a research topic that aligns with the lab’s focus. Ensure mutual agreement on the research plan.
- Prepare and Submit Your Application: Email the host team leader your documents documents (in English).
- Application Timeline:
Applications must be submitted at least four months before your intended start date.
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Required Documents
To apply for the RIKEN IMS Internship Program, prepare and submit the following:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV): Include academic history, research experience, and any relevant achievements.
- Statement of Purpose: One-page summary explaining your interest in RIKEN IMS and proposed research topic.
- Research Background: One-page description of your academic and research experience.
- Internship Period: Clearly indicate your preferred dates (1 to 3 months).
- Recommendation Letter: Sent directly by your academic supervisor to the host lab.
- GDPR Consent Form: Only for EU and UK applicants.
Selection Process
Selection for the RIKEN IMS Internship Program is competitive and based on the following:
- Research Alignment: Proposed research should complement ongoing projects in the host lab.
- Career Development: The internship must contribute meaningfully to the applicant’s long-term research goals.
- Commitment to RIKEN IMS: Preference is given to applicants who express clear motivation and need for the program.
- Evaluation by Host Lab: Final decision is made by the host team leader after reviewing application materials.
Internship Duration
The duration of the internship varies between 1 and 3 months, depending on arrangements with the host laboratory.
- Minimum Duration: 1 month
- Maximum Duration: 3 months
Application Deadline
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, but candidates must apply at least four months before their desired start date.
