The Kyoto University Amgen Scholars Internship 2026 is an exciting opportunity for science undergraduates. Supported by the Amgen Foundation, this program is designed to foster the next generation of biotechnology innovators. Selected interns spend 8 weeks conducting hands-on lab research at Kyoto University (June 5–Aug 6, 2026) and participate in a joint Asia-wide science symposium. Beyond academics, scholars enjoy living in Kyoto – a historic city rich in culture and tradition. This unique fully funded program combines professional training with global networking and cultural experience.
Internship Overview
The Amgen Scholars Internship at Kyoto University is an 8-week summer research placement (June 5 – August 6, 2026) for science undergraduates. It’s hosted on the Kyoto University campus in Kyoto, Japan. Students are placed into science and biotechnology labs based on their interests, working full-time (~40 hours/week) on independent research projects. The program’s goal is to immerse participants in cutting-edge scientific work and prepare them for future careers in research. As part of the program, interns also attend the Amgen Scholars Asia Symposium (hosted by top universities such as Tokyo, NUS, Tsinghua) to present their work and network. Overall, it’s a hands-on research internship where undergraduates gain valuable lab experience in fields like biotechnology, molecular biology, chemical engineering, and more.
About the Host Organization
Kyoto University is one of Japan’s most prestigious research universities. Founded in 1897, it is a national research university in Kyoto and the second oldest university in Japan. It has a long history of excellence in science – more than 20 Nobel laureates and other award-winning scholars are affiliated with Kyoto U. The university has numerous faculties and institutes in science, engineering, medicine, and agriculture. For example, participating labs span areas such as biochemistry, immunology, neurology, engineering and life sciences. Interns will work with world-class faculty and access state-of-the-art facilities. In short, Kyoto University offers a strong academic and research environment for ambitious students.
Benefits of the Internship
- Full Financial Support: Every cost of the internship is covered. Scholars receive a ¥180,000 stipend and all travel and housing expenses (economy airfare and campus dormitory or housing).
- Hands-On Research Training: 8 weeks of full-time (≈40 hours/week) laboratory work in cutting-edge science and biotechnology projects. Interns join Kyoto U labs and gain practical skills under faculty mentorship.
- Professional Development: Engage in seminars, lab tours, and a final poster session to build scientific communication and networking skills. Receive mentorship from leading scientists, and enhance your resume with a prestigious international experience.
- International Networking: Meet and collaborate with peers from other top universities across Asia at the Amgen Asia Symposium. The program fosters connections that can benefit your future academic and career path.
- Cultural Experience: Live and study in Kyoto – a city known for its historic temples, traditions, and vibrant student life. Immerse yourself in Japanese culture while pursuing world-class research.
Eligibility Criteria
- Academic Level: Must be an undergraduate (bachelor’s) student in your 1st–3rd year of study. (You should not graduate before the program ends.)
- Field of Study: Enrolled in a science-, engineering-, or biotechnology-related program at a college/university.
- Region: Currently studying at a college or university in Asia. (Applicants are selected from institutions across Asia as defined by the UN.)
- Academic Record: Strong grades and a demonstrated interest in research.
- Language: Good working knowledge of English (if your program isn’t in English, a TOEFL/IELTS/TOEIC score may be required).
- Program Commitment: Must resume your undergraduate studies after summer; you cannot graduate before the internship ends.
Meeting these criteria is essential. Carefully check the official program page to ensure you qualify.
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
- Review Guidelines: Read the official program Application Guidelines and FAQs on Kyoto University’s website to understand requirements and documents.
- Create an Account: When applications open (Nov 1, 2025 at 3PM JST), register on the Kyoto University online portal for the Amgen Scholars program.
- Complete the Application: Fill in all sections of the application form: personal and academic details, motivation statement, and your preferred research fields/labs.
- Submit Application: Submit the form before the deadline. The system will automatically email your two chosen referees.
- Recommendation Letters: Notify your recommenders in advance. They must upload their letters by the deadline. Only after both letters are submitted is your application complete.
Make sure all parts of your application (including essays and recommendations) are submitted by the deadline. The official website has detailed instructions on each step.
Application Deadline
Deadline: February 1, 2026 (15:00 JST). You must submit your application and ensure both recommendation letters are uploaded by 3 PM Japan Standard Time on Sunday, February 1, 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted, so plan ahead and apply early.
Conclusion
The Kyoto University Amgen Scholars Internship is a rare, fully funded chance to jumpstart your scientific career. If you’re a motivated science student, this immersive program offers research skills, mentorship, global connections and cultural experiences all with financial support. Don’t miss out: prepare your application materials, meet the eligibility requirements, and apply before the deadline. Share this opportunity with classmates or friends who could benefit. We look forward to seeing you become the next Amgen Scholar!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Kyoto University Amgen Scholars Internship?
A: It’s an 8-week fully funded summer research internship in science at Kyoto University, Japan, for undergraduate students.
Q: Who can apply for this program?
A: Eligible applicants are undergraduate science/engineering students (1st–3rd year) at colleges or universities in Asia.
Q: Is the program fully funded?
A: Yes – all expenses are covered. This includes round-trip airfare, on-campus housing, and a ¥180,000 stipend for the full 8-week term.
Q: How do I apply and what is the deadline?
A: Apply online via Kyoto University’s application portal. Fill in personal info, essays, and referee details. Two professors must upload recommendation letters by the deadline. All materials are due by Feb 1, 2026.
Q: What benefits do interns receive?
A: Scholars gain hands-on lab experience, mentorship, seminars, and networking opportunities. They also receive financial support (stipend + housing + travel) and the chance to live in Kyoto.
