The RIKEN IMS Internship Program 2026 in Japan is a fully funded international research opportunity aimed at students and young researchers wishing to undertake advanced scientific training within one of Asia's leading research centers. Organized by the RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences, it targets Master's and PhD students, future medical doctors, as well as researchers who have recently obtained their PhDs. The internship duration ranges from one to three months, with full coverage for accommodation and travel, in addition to a daily allowance for students of 3000 Japanese Yen for each working day.
This international research experience offers an exceptional opportunity to gain practical experience in an advanced scientific environment, and to interact with experts and researchers from different cultures, which enhances the academic and professional skills of the participants. Before deciding to apply, it is important to carefully read all details to ensure that the conditions are met and to make the most of this prestigious scientific opportunity in Japan.
Internship Location
- City: Various cities depending on the host laboratory
- Country: Japan
- Host Institution: RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences
- Internship Duration: 1 to 3 months
- Start Date: During the fiscal year 2026 (by agreement with the laboratory)
- Accommodation: Funded accommodation for the duration of stay
Granting Organization
RIKEN is considered one of Japan's most prominent research institutions. The Center for Integrative Medical Sciences (IMS) was established in 2013 with the aim of developing innovative medical research to improve human health. The center relies on integrating multiple disciplines such as genomics, immunology, molecular biology, bioinformatics, biochemistry, and quantitative sciences, to establish the field of Integrative Medical Sciences.
Explanation of the Internship Program
The RIKEN IMS Internship 2026 program aims to support young international researchers and enable them to work within advanced research laboratories in Japan in a world-class scientific environment.
Nature of the Internship Work
The program is a paid academic research internship that allows participants to work on real scientific projects within IMS laboratories, under the supervision of specialized researchers.
Tasks and Responsibilities
- Participate in the execution of research projects within the laboratory
- Analyze scientific data using advanced research tools
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams
- Prepare scientific reports on research results
- Attend scientific meetings and seminars within the center
Funding and Benefits
- Fully funded internship
- Category 1 (Students):
- Accommodation provided
- Travel costs covered
- Daily allowance of 3000 Japanese Yen for working days
- Category 2 (Young Researchers):
- Accommodation provided
- Travel costs covered
- Does not include a daily allowance
- Accommodation support based on duration of stay:
- Up to 11,600 JPY per day for stays from 1 to 30 days
- Up to 10,440 JPY per day for stays from 31 to 60 days
- Up to 9,280 JPY per day for stays longer than 60 days
- Work in world-leading research laboratories
Who Can Apply for This Internship?
- Students from Arab countries outside the European Union
- Students from various countries worldwide
- Master's or PhD students, or medical students at a level equivalent to a Master's in Japan (Category 1)
- Young researchers at the postdoctoral stage within three years of obtaining their PhD (Category 2)
- Applicants must be enrolled in an academic institution throughout the internship period
Required Documents
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Statement of Purpose (one A4 page) outlining research interests within IMS
- Summary of research background (one A4 page)
- Specify desired internship dates (1–3 months)
- GDPR consent form (for residents of the EU and UK only)
- Letter of recommendation to be sent directly from the academic supervisor to the host laboratory's team leader
Admission Criteria
- Clear commitment to developing research skills
- Compatibility of the proposed research topic with IMS fields
- Ability to work in an international research environment
- Strong analytical and scientific skills
- Good level of English proficiency
- Strong academic motivation and desire for professional development
Official Application Method
Applications are made by directly contacting the IMS laboratory the applicant wishes to join. First, select the appropriate laboratory, then discuss the proposed research topic with the team leader, and after that, send all required documents via email to the relevant supervisor.
It is advisable to apply at least four months before the desired start date, and to ensure that all documents are completed professionally to avoid rejection.
Application Deadline
No official deadline has been set for applying to the RIKEN IMS Internship 2026 program, so early application is recommended due to the limited number of positions (approximately 8 internship opportunities).
The RIKEN IMS Internship Program 2026 is a fully funded research opportunity in Japan, allowing students and young researchers to work in a world-class scientific environment and gain valuable practical experience. Funding includes accommodation and travel, in addition to a daily allowance for students, with a legal contract governing the internship period within the host laboratory. It is advisable to refer to the official RIKEN IMS website for the latest details and required forms before applying.