The University of Tokyo has officially opened applications for the UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program 2026, a prestigious eight-week fully funded summer research experience designed for undergraduate students across Asia and beyond. This globally recognized initiative, sponsored by the Amgen Foundation, provides participants with an exceptional opportunity to engage in high-level biomedical and life sciences research at one of the world’s most respected institutions.
Program Overview
Since its establishment in 2015, the Amgen Scholars Program at the University of Tokyo has connected aspiring scientists from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds with leading Japanese researchers. The 2026 edition will run from June 4 to August 6, 2026, offering an immersive laboratory experience complemented by academic seminars, Japanese language classes, cultural activities, and an Asia-wide Amgen Scholars Symposium.
The program aims to cultivate research excellence and foster cross-border collaboration among young scholars preparing for advanced studies such as Ph.D. programs. Participants will be hosted by UTokyo’s top departments, including the Graduate Schools of Medicine, Engineering, Science, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Agricultural and Life Sciences, and the Institute of Industrial Science. Research areas span from molecular biology, neuroscience, and bioengineering to nanotechnology, robotics, and sustainable energy systems.
Financial Coverage of Amgen Scholars Program 2026 Cohort
Selected scholars will receive comprehensive financial support, including:
- Accommodation near the UTokyo Hongo/Yayoi campus.
- Economy-class round-trip airfare (or train travel for domestic participants).
- A stipend of 280,000 JPY for meals, transportation, and personal expenses.
Participants are, however, required to arrange their own private health and travel insurance.
Eligibility Requirements that You Need to Clear
To qualify for Amgen Scholars program 2026-2027 intake, applicants must:
- Be enrolled in an undergraduate program at a university within the Asia region.
- Have completed at least their first year of study but not be graduating before the program begins.
- Demonstrate strong academic performance and genuine interest in pursuing a research career.
- Possess proficiency in English, evidenced by TOEFL iBT 72, IELTS 5.5, Cambridge FCE, or equivalent test scores if English is not their first language.
Candidates are expected to participate fully in all program components, including laboratory work, seminars, and the final oral and poster presentations. Scholars are not permitted to hold other jobs or take external courses during the program period.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted exclusively through the TAO (The Admissions Office) online system. Required documents include a portrait photo, passport or student ID, academic transcripts, proof of English proficiency, CV (maximum 500 words), and two letters of recommendation—one from a faculty member familiar with the applicant’s academic background.
Applicants should create a TAO account using their legal name and upload all materials before submission. Once submitted, no changes are allowed. Late submissions or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Application Dates
The last date to apply for the UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program 2026 is February 1, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. Japan Standard Time (JST). The online application portal will open on November 1, 2025, and applicants are strongly advised to submit all required application documents well before the closing time, as late submissions will not be accepted under any circumstances.
The selected scholars will participate in the program from June 4 to August 6, 2026, with the Amgen Scholars Asia Symposium scheduled from August 4 to 6, 2026 at the University of Tokyo.