The RIKEN IMS Internship 2026 is a prestigious research internship opportunity in Japan for undergraduate and graduate students interested in biomedical and life sciences research.

The internship is hosted by:

RIKEN Center for Integrative Medical Sciences (IMS)

Official Internship Page:
👉 https://www.ims.riken.jp/english/jobs/internship.php

Laboratory List (Official PDF):
👉 https://www.ims.riken.jp/english/jobs/Lab_list_for_IMSintern2026.pdf

Internship Agreement Document:
👉 https://www.ims.riken.jp/english/jobs/Agreement_IMS-Internship_2026.docx

Host Country

Japan

About RIKEN IMS

RIKEN is Japan’s largest comprehensive research institution. The Center for Integrative Medical Sciences (IMS) focuses on:

• Immunology
• Genomics
• Metabolomics
• Structural Biology
• Biomedical Data Science
• Infectious Diseases
• Translational Medicine

This internship allows students to work directly with leading scientists in advanced laboratories.

Available Research Laboratories (2026)

According to the official lab list , students can apply to laboratories including:

• Laboratory for Skin Homeostasis
• Laboratory for Metabolomics
• Laboratory for Human Disease Models
• Laboratory for Translation Structural Biology
• Laboratory for Large-Scale Biomedical Data Technology
• Medical Data Mathematical Reasoning Special Team (Online Program Only)
• Laboratory for Metabolic Networks
• Laboratory for Developmental Genetics
• Laboratory for Infectious Diseases and Immunology
• Laboratory for Bottom-up Cell Biology
• Laboratory for Genotyping Development
• Laboratory for Innate Immune Systems
• Laboratory for Dynamic Biomolecule Design
• Laboratory for Intestinal Ecosystem
• Laboratory for Autoimmune Diseases
• Laboratory for Integrative Genomics
• Laboratory for Symbiotic Microbiome Sciences
• Laboratory for Advanced Biomolecular Engineering
• Laboratory for In situ Structural Biology
• Laboratory for Transcriptional Regulation

(Full lab details available in the official PDF above.)

Internship Duration

The internship period is typically during 2026 (exact dates provided on official page). Duration may vary depending on lab and agreement with supervisor.

Internship Benefits

Based on RIKEN internship standards, selected interns may receive:

• Research supervision by senior scientists
• Laboratory access
• Hands-on experimental training
• Exposure to international research environment
• Certificate of completion

Funding and financial details should be confirmed directly via official internship page.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

• Be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program
• Have strong academic background
• Show interest in biomedical research
• Meet specific lab requirements

Some labs may offer online internship options (as mentioned in the official lab list ).

Required Documents

Applicants generally need:

• CV / Resume
• Academic transcript
• Statement of interest
• Recommendation letter
• Passport copy
• Signed internship agreement (if selected)

Agreement Template:
👉 https://www.ims.riken.jp/english/jobs/Agreement_IMS-Internship_2026.docx

How to Apply for RIKEN IMS Internship 2026

Step 1: Review Laboratory List

Download and check available labs:
👉 https://www.ims.riken.jp/english/jobs/Lab_list_for_IMSintern2026.pdf

Step 2: Visit Official Internship Page

👉 https://www.ims.riken.jp/english/jobs/internship.php

Step 3: Contact or Apply According to Instructions

Each lab may have specific application instructions.

Step 4: Await Selection & Agreement

Visa Process for International Students

If selected, students must apply for a Japanese visa.

General Student/Intern Visa Requirements:

• Valid passport
• Invitation letter from RIKEN
• Internship agreement
• Visa application form
• Certificate of Eligibility (if required)

Official Japanese Embassy Finder:
👉 https://www.mofa.go.jp/about/emb_cons/mofaserv.html

Students are advised to apply early after receiving official acceptance.

Why Apply for RIKEN IMS Internship 2026?

• Work at one of Japan’s top research institutions
• Gain international research experience
• Build strong academic profile
• Collaborate with global scientists
• Prepare for future Master’s or PhD studies

FAQs

Is this internship fully funded?

Funding details vary by lab. Check official internship page for confirmation.

Can Pakistani students apply?

Yes, international students are eligible.

Is English required?

Yes, research communication is typically conducted in English.

Is there an online option?

Yes, one lab (Medical Data Mathematical Reasoning Special Team) offers online program option .

Final Thoughts

The RIKEN IMS Internship 2026 is an excellent opportunity for students aiming for research careers in biomedical sciences.

If you are serious about pursuing advanced studies in Japan or globally, this internship can significantly strengthen your academic journey.

Apply early and contact your preferred laboratory for specific details.