University of Tokyo Amgen Scholars Program 2027 in Japan | Fully Funded Summer Research Internship

The University of Tokyo Amgen Scholars Program 2027 offers an exceptional opportunity for undergraduate students from across Asia to participate in an international summer research internship in Japan. Supported by the Amgen Foundation, this prestigious program provides hands-on research experience in biomedical sciences, biology, biotechnology, and related scientific disciplines at one of Asia’s leading research universities.

The program aims to encourage talented undergraduate students to pursue scientific research and consider advanced studies, including PhD programs. Selected scholars will work closely with faculty members, researchers, graduate students, and postdoctoral fellows while gaining valuable international academic exposure.

Program Details

• Host Institution: The University of Tokyo
• Program Name: UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program 2027
• Location: Tokyo, Japan
• Duration: Approximately 8 weeks
• Program Dates: June 3 – August 5, 2027
• Study Level: Undergraduate students
• Number of Participants: Approximately 10 scholars
• Funding: Fully funded
• Application Deadline: February 1, 2027

Benefits of the Amgen Scholars Program

The UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program offers comprehensive financial support and academic opportunities to selected participants.

Financial Benefits:

• Accommodation: Provided in an off-campus residence near the University of Tokyo’s Hongo or Yayoi Campus.
• Travel Support: Economy-class round-trip airfare to Tokyo for international participants.
• Stipend: JPY 280,000 to help cover food, personal expenses, and other costs during the program.
• Additional Transportation: Travel allowance for scholars assigned to laboratories outside the main campuses.
• Visa Assistance: Support from the university for successful applicants who require a Japanese visa.

Participants will also receive access to university facilities, research laboratories, academic seminars, Japanese language classes, cultural activities, and networking opportunities. Scholars are expected to present their research through oral and poster presentations and participate in the Amgen Scholars Asia Symposium.

Please note that private health and travel insurance must be arranged independently by participants.

Research Areas

Applicants can choose one research project from the available opportunities across several graduate schools and research institutes at the University of Tokyo. Research areas include:

• Biomedical Sciences and Molecular Biology
• Neuroscience and Neurobiology
• Biotechnology and Bioengineering
• Immunology and Microbiology
• Bioinformatics and Data Science
• Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering
• Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Agricultural and Life Sciences
• Medical Research and Molecular Medicine
• Sustainable Energy and Advanced Technologies

Each applicant must select one research project when submitting their application. Applicants are encouraged to review the available research projects and identify an area that closely aligns with their academic background and research interests.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the University of Tokyo Amgen Scholars Program 2027, applicants must:

• Be currently enrolled in an undergraduate degree program at a university or college in an eligible Asian country.
• Have completed at least the first year of undergraduate study before the program begins.
• Not graduate before the summer program starts.
• Have at least one semester or quarter of undergraduate study remaining after the program concludes.
• Demonstrate a strong academic record.
• Have a good working knowledge of English.
• Demonstrate an interest in pursuing a PhD or a future career in scientific research.

Non-native English speakers or applicants whose first language is not English must meet the program’s English proficiency requirements. Accepted qualifications include TOEFL iBT, IELTS, Cambridge English, and specified TOEIC scores. Applicants should consult the official eligibility requirements for accepted scores and exemptions.

Required Application Documents

Applicants are required to prepare the following documents:

• Completed online application form
• Statement of Purpose
• Official academic transcript in English
• Valid English proficiency certificate, if required
• Updated CV or résumé (maximum 500 words)
• Passport or other accepted identification document
• Recent passport-style photograph
• Two letters of recommendation, including at least one from a faculty member at the applicant’s current university

Recommendation letters must be submitted through the designated online application system. Applicants should contact their recommenders well in advance to ensure timely submission.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should follow these steps:

1. Visit the official University of Tokyo Amgen Scholars Program webpage.
2. Review the available research projects and eligibility requirements.
3. Create an account on The Admissions Office (TAO), the designated online application platform.
4. Complete the application form and upload all required documents.
5. Nominate two recommenders and ensure both recommendation letters are submitted.
6. Review the application carefully and submit it before the deadline.

Application Deadline: February 1, 2027, at 3:00 PM Japan Standard Time (JST).

Late applications will not be accepted. Applicants should also note that submitted applications cannot be modified after final submission.

Why Apply?

The UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program is an excellent opportunity for ambitious undergraduate students interested in science, research, and innovation. Through international collaboration, mentorship, and intensive laboratory experience, participants can strengthen their research skills, build academic networks, and prepare for future graduate studies at leading universities worldwide.