Japan has long been recognized as a global leader in scientific innovation, advanced biotechnology, and cutting-edge research. Among its world-renowned institutions, Kyoto University stands out as a pioneer in higher education and groundbreaking discoveries. For aspiring scientists who dream of immersing themselves in an intellectually stimulating environment, the Kyoto University Amgen Scholars Program 2026 represents an extraordinary opportunity a fully funded summer research internship designed for exceptional undergraduate students across Asia.
Why Kyoto University?
Founded in 1897, Kyoto University is one of Japan’s most prestigious national universities and consistently ranks among the top institutions in Asia and the world. Known for its Nobel Prize-winning research traditions, interdisciplinary academic environment, and state-of-the-art laboratories, Kyoto provides an ideal ecosystem for young scholars committed to advancing scientific knowledge.
With the support of the Amgen Foundation, Kyoto University continues its mission of nurturing future leaders in science, biotechnology, and biomedical research. The Amgen Scholars Program is globally recognized, offering unparalleled research opportunities at premier universities such as Harvard, MIT, Stanford, Cambridge, and ETH Zurich. Kyoto University proudly represents the program’s Japanese hub for Asia, making it a gateway for students to enter the world of high-impact scientific research.
Overview of the Kyoto University Amgen Scholars Program 2026
The Kyoto University Amgen Scholars Internship 2026 is an intensive eight-week summer program designed to equip undergraduate students with practical laboratory skills, academic mentorship, and scientific exposure at one of Asia’s strongest research institutions.
Quick Summary
| Program Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Host University | Kyoto University, Japan |
| Program Name | Amgen Scholars Program 2026 |
| Location | Kyoto, Japan |
| Duration | June 5, 2026 – August 6, 2026 |
| Application Opens | November 1, 2025 (3 PM JST) |
| Application Deadline | February 1, 2026 (3 PM JST) |
| Notification of Results | Late March 2026 |
| Participants | Approximately 10 students |
| Funding | Fully funded |
| Eligible Applicants | Undergraduate students from Asian universities |
This program immerses students in a full-time research environment, typically requiring 40 hours of weekly engagement in laboratory activities, academic seminars, and collaborative scientific investigations.
What Makes This Internship Exceptional?
The Kyoto University Amgen Scholars Program is not just a routine summer activity it is a transformational milestone for aspiring researchers. Selected students join a select network of scholars, researchers, and mentors who are changing the landscape of modern science. The internship’s core strengths include:
1. Hands-On Research Experience
Participants work directly under the supervision of Kyoto University’s leading professors. Whether it is gene expression analysis, laboratory experimentation, computational biology, or cellular physiology, students gain exposure to real-world scientific challenges.
2. Access to World-Class Laboratories
Kyoto University’s labs are equipped with advanced scientific technologies, enabling students to participate in research that addresses some of the world’s most pressing questions in medicine, genetics, and biotechnology.
3. International Exposure
The program connects scholars from different Asian countries, encouraging intercultural understanding, scientific exchange, and professional networking with future leaders in academia and industry.
4. Fully Funded Benefits
From airfare to accommodation and stipends, students face no financial barriers. This level of funding reflects the program’s mission of democratizing scientific opportunities and supporting talented youth regardless of their socioeconomic background.
Research Fields Available in 2026
The Kyoto University Amgen Scholars Internship covers diverse research areas central to biotechnology, medicine, and life sciences. Students select or are matched to laboratories that align closely with their interests. Key domains include:
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Study biological molecules, metabolic pathways, and regulatory mechanisms at the molecular level. - Bioengineering and Biotechnology
Develop innovative biological systems and tackle challenges in genetic engineering, tissue culture, and applied biotechnology. - Immunology and Pharmacology
Investigate drug responses, immune mechanisms, and therapeutic solutions for diseases. - Neurobiology and Neuroscience
Explore the complexities of the nervous system, from neuronal function to cognitive processes. - Bioinformatics and Cheminformatics
Utilize computational tools to analyze biological data, predict protein interactions, and model chemical behavior. - Pathology and Toxicology
Study disease mechanisms, diagnostic tools, and the impacts of toxins on living organisms. - Medical and Molecular Genetics
Examine genetic disorders, gene therapy methods, and inherited traits through molecular-level research. - Statistics and Physiological Science
Apply statistical frameworks to biological data and understand organismal function at the cellular and systemic levels.
Students are placed strategically into labs based on their academic background, research focus, and availability of mentors ensuring personalized scientific growth.
Educational and Cultural Activities
Beyond research, the Amgen Scholars experience includes structured academic engagement and cultural enrichment.
Seminars and Workshops
Experts from Kyoto University lead thought-provoking discussions on current scientific breakthroughs, research ethics, and potential career pathways in academia or industry.
Laboratory Tours
Students gain behind-the-scenes access to some of Japan’s most advanced biotech research facilities.
Poster Presentations
At the end of the internship, scholars showcase their research via poster sessions, developing their presentation and communication skills.
Amgen Scholars Asia Symposium in Tokyo
A highlight of the program, this symposium gathers scholars from partner institutions across Asia. Participants meet renowned scientists, attend keynote lectures, and network with peers shaping the future of life sciences.
Financial Coverage and Program Benefits
The Kyoto University Amgen Scholars Internship is fully funded a rare opportunity in the world of summer research programs.
Funding Includes:
✔ Travel Costs
- Round-trip airfare (economy class) for international participants traveling to Osaka
- Domestic travel for students within Japan
✔ Accommodation
Housing is provided for all participants except for enrolled Kyoto University students.
✔ Scholarship Allowance
- 180,000 JPY total (distributed in two payments of 90,000 JPY each)
This allowance covers meals, study materials, and personal expenses during the program.
✔ Additional Perks
- Mentorship from highly respected Kyoto University researchers
- Access to high-tech laboratories and institutional resources
- Opportunities to participate in academic events and conferences
- Integration into a global network of Amgen Scholars alumni
Note: Participants must arrange private health insurance and register for Kyoto University Co-op Liability Insurance upon arrival.
Eligibility Requirements for 2026
To apply for the Kyoto University Amgen Scholars Program, candidates must meet the following criteria:
Academic Requirements
- Enrolled as an undergraduate at a recognized Asian university offering bachelor’s degree programs
- Completed at least one year of study before program start
- Must not graduate before or during the internship period
- Excellent academic performance and demonstrated interest in scientific research, particularly a desire to pursue a PhD in a related field
English Proficiency
Applicants must provide proof of English ability unless exempted.
Accepted tests:
| Test | Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 72 |
| IELTS | 5.5 |
| Cambridge English | FCE |
| TOEIC | L&R 785, S&W 310 |
Exemption: Students who have studied in English for five consecutive years.
Eligible Regions
Students from all Asian subregions are welcome, including:
- Eastern Asia (Japan, China, Korea)
- South-Eastern Asia (Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines)
- Central and Western Asia (Pakistan, Kazakhstan, UAE)
- Southern Asia (India, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh)
This inclusiveness ensures a culturally rich and intellectually diverse learning environment.
How to Apply – Step-by-Step Guide
The application for the Kyoto University Amgen Scholars Internship 2026 must be completed online.
Application Steps
- Access the official online portal (available November 1, 2025).
- Create an account and fill out personal and academic information.
- Upload required documents:
- Completed application form
- Statement of Purpose (SOP) detailing motivation and research interests
- Curriculum Vitae / Resume
- Official academic transcript
- Nominate two referees who will submit recommendation letters electronically.
- Submit application before February 1, 2026 (3 PM JST).
- Await the final selection announcement in late March 2026.
Why You Should Apply
Participating in the Amgen Scholars Program at Kyoto University can dramatically influence your academic path and future career. Whether you aim to contribute to medical breakthroughs, enter the pharmaceutical industry, or pursue a doctorate in biological sciences, this internship serves as an invaluable steppingstone.
Top Reasons to Apply
- Gain global research exposure
- Build an international scientific network
- Strengthen your graduate school applications
- Learn from world-renowned scientists
- Experience Japanese culture and advanced research infrastructure
Conclusion
The Japan Kyoto University Amgen Scholars Internship 2026 is more than a fully funded research opportunity—it is a transformative academic journey that enables young scientists to explore, discover, innovate, and flourish in one of the world’s most respected institutions. Students selected for this prestigious program will engage in groundbreaking research, benefit from exceptional mentorship, and join a distinguished community of future scientific leaders.
If you are an ambitious undergraduate passionate about biotechnology, life sciences, or biomedical research, this is your chance to take a significant step toward an extraordinary scientific career.
Application Deadline: February 1, 2026
Do not miss the opportunity to begin your research adventure in Kyoto, Japan.
OFFICIAL: https://www.opir.kyoto-u.ac.jp/study/en/curriculum/amgenscholars