The Amgen Scholars Program at Kyoto University offers an eight-week, intensive research opportunity in the fields of science and biotechnology. Participants engage in cutting-edge research at one of Kyoto University’s renowned departments or interdisciplinary areas, with placements based on their interests and the available spaces in specific labs.

Program Dates

  • Period: June 6, 2025 – August 7, 2025
  • Number of Participants: Approximately 10 students

Research Areas
Amgen Scholars will be placed in one of the following research areas:

  • Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Bioinformatics, and more
  • Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Immunology, Molecular Genetics
  • Microbiology, Molecular Medicine, Neuroscience, Pathology
  • Statistics, Toxicology, and other fields relevant to biotechnology and the life sciences

Placements
Students are matched to research labs based on their research interests. Placements include guidance from Kyoto University faculty members, with additional support from graduate students and postdoctoral associates. Scholars will work full-time, approximately 40 hours per week, on their research projects.

Educational Activities

  • Seminars & Lab Visits: Participate in seminars and lab tours led by Kyoto University faculty to discuss current research and professional topics in science.
  • Poster Session: Present the summer’s research findings at the end-of-program poster session.

Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Be enrolled in a university in Asia that awards a bachelor’s degree or equivalent.
  • Have completed at least one year of undergraduate study by the start of the program.
  • Plan to return to undergraduate study after the program ends.
  • Possess a strong academic record and proficiency in English, evidenced by a minimum TOEFL score of 72, IELTS score of 5.5, or equivalent.
  • Express an interest in pursuing a Ph.D.

Financial Support

  • Travel Costs: Kyoto University provides an economy-class flight to and from Japan, with specifics on the travel schedule and route.
  • Accommodation: Kyoto University arranges and covers accommodation costs for all scholars (excluding Kyoto University students).
  • Scholarship: Amgen Scholars receive a stipend of 180,000 yen, disbursed in two installments.

Amgen Scholars Asia Symposium
All participants must attend the Amgen Scholars Asia Symposium held in Kyoto during the program. It is an essential component of the program.

Health & Liability Insurance
Students are responsible for obtaining their own health insurance. Upon arrival, they must also enroll in Kyoto University’s Co-op Liability Insurance.

Program Requirements
Amgen Scholars must:

  • Adhere to travel and accommodation requirements.
  • Undertake an eight-week research project.
  • Participate fully in academic and social events, including the Amgen Scholars Asia Symposium.
  • Submit a research poster and feedback at the end of the program.

Application Procedures

  • How to Apply: Submit an online application available from November 1, 2024, with a deadline of February 1, 2025.
  • Required Documents:
    • Statement of Purpose detailing your chosen lab and proposed research project.
    • Two recommendation letters.
    • Official academic transcript and proof of English proficiency.
    • PDF copies of all documents must not exceed 3MB each.

Visa Information
Successful applicants will need to provide a valid passport and apply for the necessary visa(s) to enter Japan. Kyoto University will assist in the visa application process.

Important Dates

  • Application Open: November 1, 2024
  • Application Deadline: February 1, 2025 (Japan Standard Time)

For more details on the program, eligibility