UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program 2027

The UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program 2027 is an international summer research internship hosted by the University of Tokyo and supported by the Amgen Foundation.

The programme provides undergraduate students from universities across Asia with the opportunity to undertake advanced scientific research in Japan.

Designed for students interested in biology, biotechnology and related sciences, the programme aims to develop research skills and encourage participants to consider postgraduate studies and scientific careers.

Selected scholars spend approximately eight weeks working in research laboratories under the supervision of University of Tokyo faculty members.

Participants collaborate with graduate students, postdoctoral researchers and other laboratory members while gaining experience in research methods, scientific analysis and academic communication.

Research Opportunities

Research projects are available through participating university departments and institutes, including:

• Graduate School of Medicine
• Graduate School of Engineering
• Graduate School of Science
• Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences
• Graduate School of Arts and Sciences
• Institute of Industrial Science
• Research Center for Advanced Science and Technology

Research topics for 2027 include neuroscience, immunology, virology, biotechnology, bioengineering, molecular biology, sustainable hydrogen production and other related scientific disciplines.

Applicants must select one research project when applying.

Programme Activities

In addition to laboratory research, the programme includes:

• Research-related seminars and academic discussions.
• Japanese language learning activities.
• Cultural experiences and excursions.
• Access to selected university facilities.
• Networking with other international scholars.
• Scientific research presentations.

At the end of the research period, participants attend the Amgen Scholars Asia Symposium 2027, hosted by Kyoto University from 3–5 August 2027.

The symposium brings together scholars and researchers for scientific presentations, discussions and professional networking.

The programme provides both practical research training and an opportunity to experience Japan's academic and cultural environment.

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be currently enrolled as an undergraduate student at a university or college in an eligible Asian country or area.
• Be studying at an institution that awards a bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification.
• Have completed at least the first year of undergraduate study by the beginning of the summer programme.
• Not graduate before the programme begins.
• Resume undergraduate studies for at least one semester or quarter after the programme ends.
• Have a strong academic record.
• Demonstrate a good working knowledge of English.
• Have an interest in pursuing a PhD or further scientific research.
• Be pursuing their first bachelor's degree.
• Be available to participate throughout the compulsory research programme and Asia Symposium.

English Language Requirements

Applicants whose first language is not English and whose current degree programme is not taught primarily in English must provide an accepted English-language test result.

Accepted qualifications include:

• IELTS: Minimum overall band 5.5.
• TOEFL iBT: Minimum 72.
• Cambridge English FCE.
• TOEIC: Minimum 1,095.
• TOEIC Listening & Reading: Minimum 785.
• TOEIC Speaking & Writing: Minimum 310.

TOEFL ITP is not accepted.

Applicants whose degree programme is taught primarily in English may submit official university documentation confirming the medium of instruction instead of a test score.

Selected participants receive the following financial and academic benefits:

• JPY 280,000 Stipend: Financial support for meals, personal expenses and specified local transport costs during the programme.
• Accommodation: Off-campus residence arranged near the University of Tokyo's Hongo or Yayoi Campus.
• Return Travel Support: Economy-class return airfare for international students, based on the most direct and economical route between their home institution's city and Tokyo.
• Domestic Travel: Return train tickets for eligible students travelling within Japan.
• Asia Symposium Participation: Programme-covered participation in the Amgen Scholars Asia Symposium at Kyoto University.
• Additional Transport Allowance: Available to scholars assigned to university campuses other than Hongo or Yayoi.
• Research Mentorship: Academic guidance from faculty members and experienced researchers.
• Laboratory Experience: Practical participation in scientific research projects.
• Professional Development: Research seminars, presentations and academic networking.
• Cultural Activities: Japanese language learning, excursions and cultural exchange.
• University Facilities: Access to selected research, library, healthcare-centre and sports facilities.

Applicants must prepare the following application materials:

• Academic Transcript: Most recent university academic transcript, preferably official, in English.
• Certificate of Enrolment: An official certificate or letter from the current university confirming undergraduate enrolment, degree programme and expected study period.
• Proof of English Proficiency: Accepted test results or eligible English-medium instruction evidence.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV): A concise CV describing relevant academic experience, projects, skills and responsibilities.
• Statement of Purpose: A personal statement explaining academic interests, research motivation and reasons for applying.
• Two Letters of Recommendation: Submitted directly by nominated referees through the application portal.
• Personal and Educational Information: Details requested in the online application questionnaire.

The programme considers applicants in relation to:

• Academic performance and educational background.
• Interest in pursuing a scientific research career or PhD.
• Relevance of academic preparation to the selected research project.
• Research interests and motivation.
• Information provided in the Statement of Purpose.
• Academic potential and supporting recommendations.
• Ability to participate fully in the research programme.

Selection is carried out after the application deadline rather than on a rolling basis.

Approximately 10 participants are expected to be admitted.

• Research experience: Conduct practical scientific research at a leading Japanese university.
• Academic mentorship: Learn from experienced faculty members and laboratory researchers.
• Postgraduate preparation: Develop skills relevant to future master's, PhD and research opportunities.
• International networking: Connect with undergraduate scholars and researchers from Asian institutions.
• Scientific communication: Gain experience presenting research through oral and poster presentations.
• Cultural exposure: Experience Japanese university life, language and culture.
• Professional development: Strengthen laboratory, analytical and problem-solving abilities.