The Kyoto University Amgen Scholars Program 2026 offers undergraduate students from across Asia a remarkable opportunity to participate in cutting-edge research at one of Japan’s most prestigious universities. This fully funded summer research program aims to nurture the next generation of scientists through hands-on laboratory experience, academic mentorship, and international collaboration.
Program Overview
- Host University: Kyoto University
- Program Name: Amgen Scholars Program 2026
- Location: Kyoto, Japan
- Program 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
- Number of Participants: Approximately 10 students
This eight-week research program allows students to work full-time (around 40 hours per week) under the guidance of distinguished Kyoto University faculty members. Participants will engage in advanced scientific research and take part in academic activities that enhance their skills in biotechnology and related disciplines.
Research Fields
The Kyoto University Amgen Scholars Program offers placements across a variety of scientific disciplines, including:
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
- Bioengineering and Biotechnology
- Immunology and Pharmacology
- Neurobiology and Neuroscience
- Bioinformatics and Cheminformatics
- Pathology and Toxicology
- Medical and Molecular Genetics
- Statistics and Physiological Science
Students are assigned to laboratories based on their research interests and available positions. Supervision is provided by Kyoto University professors, supported by graduate students and postdoctoral researchers.
Educational Activities
In addition to research work, scholars will participate in a series of academic and cultural activities such as:
- Seminars and Workshops: Faculty-led talks on current scientific research and career development.
- Lab Tours: Visits to advanced research facilities at Kyoto University.
- Poster Presentations: A final session where participants present their research outcomes.
- Amgen Scholars Asia Symposium (Tokyo): A mandatory symposium featuring all Asian Amgen Scholars for networking and knowledge sharing.
Financial Support and Benefits
The Kyoto University Amgen Scholars Program 2026 is fully funded and covers all major expenses for selected participants:
Travel Costs:
- Round-trip economy-class airfare between the student’s home university and Osaka (for international participants).
- Domestic travel support for students studying at Japanese universities.
Accommodation:
- Provided for all participants except Kyoto University students.
Scholarship:
- 180,000 JPY (split into two payments of 90,000 JPY each).
Additional Benefits:
- Access to world-class laboratories.
- Mentorship from renowned Kyoto University researchers.
- Participation in regional and international academic events.
Note: Participants must arrange private health insurance and enroll in Kyoto University’s Co-op Liability Insurance upon arrival.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Kyoto University Amgen Scholars Program 2026, applicants must:
- Be undergraduate students enrolled in an Asian university that awards a bachelor’s degree.
- Have completed at least their first year of study by the start of the program.
- Not be graduating before or during the program period.
- Have a strong academic record and interest in pursuing a Ph.D. in a science-related field.
- Possess English proficiency, demonstrated by one of the following:
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 72
- IELTS: Overall band score of 5.5
- Cambridge English FCE or equivalent
- TOEIC (L&R: 785, S&W: 310)
- Exemption: Students who have studied in English for the past five years.
Eligible regions:
Eastern, South-Eastern, Central, Southern, and Western Asia (including countries like Japan, China, India, Pakistan, Thailand, Indonesia, South Korea, and more).
Application Process
The application process for the Amgen Scholars Program 2026 at Kyoto University is entirely online.
Steps to Apply:
- Create an account via the official application portal (opens November 1, 2025).
- Fill out the online form with personal, academic, and research details.
- Upload required documents:
- Application form
- Statement of Purpose
- CV/Resume
- Academic transcript
- Nominate two recommenders — they will receive an automatic email to submit recommendation letters.
- Submit the completed application before 3 PM JST, February 1, 2026.
- After submission, results will be announced in late March 2026.
Conclusion
The Kyoto University Amgen Scholars Program 2026 is a prestigious and fully funded opportunity for talented undergraduates eager to explore scientific research in Japan. Participants will gain invaluable experience in biotechnology, molecular biology, and biomedical sciences, while immersing themselves in Kyoto’s world-class academic culture.
Apply by February 1, 2026, to embark on a transformative research journey at Kyoto University, Japan.
Official Call: https://www.opir.kyoto-u.ac.jp/study/en/curriculum/amgenscholars/
