Introduction

The UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program 2026 is one of Asia’s most prestigious summer research opportunities for undergraduate students who aim to build a future in biotechnology and life sciences. Hosted by The University of Tokyo, the program gives selected students a chance to conduct full-time research, learn directly from top scientists and experience academic life at Japan’s highest-ranked university.

📌 Official Website:

https://www.u-tokyo.ac.jp/en/prospective-students/amgen_program.html

This guide explains everything clearly. You will understand the program structure, benefits, eligibility, research projects, application steps and key dates.

What is the UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program

The Amgen Scholars initiative is a global undergraduate research program funded by the Amgen Foundation. The University of Tokyo launched its version in 2015. It provides students from Asia a chance to take part in an eight-week, fully funded research internship in cutting-edge laboratories.

During the program, students work full-time in a UTokyo research lab. They also attend seminars, Japanese cultural sessions, social events and the regional Amgen Scholars Asia Symposium.

Key Dates You Must Know for the 2026 Intake

🔸Program Period: 4 June 2026 to 6 August 2026

🔸Check-in at Residence: 3 June 2026

🔸Check-out: 7 August 2026

🔸Application Opens: 1 November 2025

🔸Application Deadline: 1 February 2026 at 3 p.m. JST

🔸Selection Result: Mid to late March 2026

The program requires full-time participation. Students cannot modify dates or attend other courses or jobs during this period.

Why You Should Apply: Key Benefits

1. Fully Funded Experience

The UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program covers major expenses, making it accessible for talented students from across Asia. Selected students receive:

🔹Free accommodation in an off-campus residence near UTokyo’s Hongo or Yayoi campuses

🔹Round-trip economy airfare or equivalent domestic travel support

🔹A 280,000 JPY stipend to cover meals, personal expenses and daily transportation

Any personal changes to university-booked travel may require reimbursement.

2. Work in Top-Tier Research Labs

Students gain hands-on experience in world-class laboratories at Japan’s leading research university. This includes full-time lab work, close mentorship from faculty and access to advanced equipment and research environments.

3. Academic & Cultural Enrichment

The program provides a mix of scientific learning and cultural exposure, including:

🔹Research seminars and academic workshops

🔹Japanese language sessions

🔹Cultural excursions and social events

🔹Poster and oral presentation opportunities

🔹Participation in the Amgen Scholars Asia Symposium

4. Strong Career Advancement

Completing this program is a strong advantage for students aiming for:

🔹Graduate studies (MSc, PhD)

🔹International research careers

🔹Competitive academic pathways in biotechnology, life sciences, neuroscience or related fields

The experience builds your academic profile, global network and confidence in real research settings.

5. Independent Living & International Experience

Students live in Tokyo for eight weeks, gaining independence while experiencing Japanese culture, research practices and day-to-day university life—an excellent foundation for future study or work in Japan.

6. Strong Career Boost

The programme strengthens your application for future graduate studies and gives you global exposure in scientific research.

Who is Eligible

Basic Requirements

🔹Must be an undergraduate student enrolled in an Asian university

🔹Must have completed at least the first year of bachelor studies

🔹Must have at least one semester remaining after summer 2026

🔹Must demonstrate strong academic performance

English Language Requirements

Required if your degree program is not taught in English. Accepted tests include:

🔹TOEFL iBT 72 or above

🔹IELTS 5.5 or above.

🔹Other equivalent tests as listed on the official website

(TOEFL ITP is not accepted.)

Commitment Requirements

🔹Must participate in all program activities

🔹Must stay in the designated accommodation

🔹Must present research through poster or oral sessions

Research Fields and Project Options

Applicants must select one research project. The University of Tokyo offers diverse options across multiple graduate schools.

a. Graduate School of Medicine

🔹Long-term memory mechanisms and neural circuit analysis

🔹Vaccine development and diagnostics for viral diseases

🔹Sleep, circadian rhythm and systems biolog

b. Graduate School of Engineering

🔹Nanocarriers for targeted gene editing

🔹Bio-inspired robotics and human hand modeling

🔹Hydrogen production through sustainable energy

c. Graduate School of Science

🔹Optical imaging and spectroscopy using integrated technologies

🔹Super-resolution microscopy and single-molecule imaging

d. Agricultural and Life Sciences

🔹Parasite infection and immune responses

🔹RNA splicing and disease mechanisms

🔹Plant protein imaging and biotechnology research

e. Interdisciplinary Fields

🔹Synthetic cell functions

🔹Neural tissue engineering

🔹Advanced bio-measurement technology 

Students should choose a project aligned with their interests and academic background.

Required Application Documents

Applicants must prepare the following materials:

🔹A recent portrait photo (not a selfie)

🔹Passport copy or official ID

🔹Official academic transcript in English

🔹CV (max ~500 words)

🔹English language test score (if applicable)

🔹Two recommendation letters submitted online by referees

🔹Statement of Purpose explaining your motivation and fit for the selected lab

All documents must be uploaded through the TAO Online Application System before the deadline.

Application Procedure

Step-by-Step Process

1. Create an account on the TAO application portal.

2. Select the “UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program” and begin your application.

3. Fill out personal and academic details.

4. Upload all required documents in the correct format.

5. Select your preferred research project.

6. Register your two referees.

7. Submit the application online before the deadline.

Once the system marks your status as “Application completed,” you cannot make any changes. Late submissions are not accepted.

Financial Support

Accommodation

🔸Program offers off-campus residence near UTokyo’s Hongo or Yayoi campuses

Travel Support

🔸Round-trip airfare or equivalent domestic travel is provided

🔸Any personal changes to travel bookings may require reimbursement

Allowance

🔸280,000 JPY stipend for food, daily travel and personal expenses

Insurance

🔸Students must arrange private health and travel insurance at their own expense

Tips for a Strong Application

a. Choose the Right Lab

Study each research project carefully. Make sure your academic background matches the lab’s work.

b. Write a Strong Statement of Purpose

🔹Show clear motivation

🔹Explain your interest in the selected lab

🔹Highlight relevant projects, skills or academic strengths

🔹Write clearly without generic phrases

c. Prepare Recommendation Letters Early

Inform your referees well in advance. Delayed letters may cause your application to be incomplete.

d. Ensure Document Accuracy

Check for:

🔹Correct file format

🔹Clear scans

🔹Accurate translations

🔹No password protection

e. Respect All Deadlines

UTokyo strictly follows timelines. Missing the deadline leads to automatic disqualification.

Is This Program Right Fit for You?

You’re likely a great fit if you:

🔸want a serious, full-time research experience

🔸are studying at an Asian university and have at least one semester left after summer

🔸are genuinely interested in biosciences, biotechnology, neuroscience, imaging or related fields

🔸hope to pursue graduate studies or build an international research career.

🔸are excited to work closely with top researchers and learn in a global academic environment

It may not be ideal if you:

🔹cannot commit to the full 8-week schedule

🔹prefer a short or flexible internship

🔹are not ready for intensive daily lab work

For motivated students who want to challenge themselves, this program can become a defining step in their scientific journey.

Conclusion

The UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program 2026 is a rare opportunity for undergraduate students who want to advance in life sciences, biotechnology, neuroscience or related fields. With full financial support, access to world-leading labs and enriching cultural experiences, the programme can significantly strengthen your academic and career journey.

If you prepare carefully and apply early, you can maximize your chance of securing a place.

If you’re aiming for programs in Japan and want to strengthen your profile, you can start learning Japanese with Yoisho Academy.

👉 Join here: Yoisho Academy Registration Form

Ganbatte! (Good luck!)

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FAQ

1. Is the schedule flexible?

No. Dates are fixed.

2. Does UTokyo support visa procedures?

Yes. Successful applicants will receive guidance.

3. Can I apply if I’m not in Asia?

No. Only students enrolled in Asian universities are eligible.

4. Do I need Japanese language knowledge?

No, it’s not required.

5. Can I email documents?

No. Only online submission through TAO is accepted.