RIKEN CBS Summer Program 2026 Offers Fully Funded Internships in Japan

Applications are now being accepted for the RIKEN CBS Summer Program 2026, a fully funded internship opportunity at the RIKEN Center for Brain Science (RIKEN CBS) in Tokyo, Japan. The program offers students worldwide a chance to immerse themselves in neuroscience research, with options for a two-month laboratory internship or an intensive five-day lecture course. There is no application fee.

Program Overview

The RIKEN CBS Summer Program aims to cultivate future neuroscientists by providing hands-on research experience and in-depth knowledge of brain function. Selected interns will receive comprehensive financial support, including travel, accommodation, and a monthly stipend.

Host Country: Japan Location: RIKEN Center for Brain Science (RIKEN CBS), Tokyo Duration: 2 Months (Internship) or 5 Days (Lecture Course) Benefits: Fully Funded (Return Airfare, Accommodation, Monthly Stipend) Deadline: January 7th, 2026

Financial Support Details

The RIKEN CBS Summer Program provides extensive financial assistance to ensure accessibility for talented students from around the globe. This includes:

Round-trip Airfare: Covers the cost of travel to and from Japan. Accommodation: Provides housing for the duration of the program. Monthly Stipend: Offers a living allowance to cover daily expenses.

Internship and Lecture Course Details

Participants can choose between two distinct tracks:

Two-Month Internship

Dates: June 9 – August 7, 2026 Task: Interns will conduct research within a CBS lab, actively contributing to ongoing projects and presenting their findings at the end of the term.

Five-Day Lecture Course

Dates: July 22-28, 2026 Task: The intensive lecture course offers a comprehensive overview of a chosen neuroscience theme, covering fundamental concepts and cutting-edge research.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the RIKEN CBS Summer Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Open to candidates from all countries. Must be currently enrolled in an academic institution or employed by a company at the time of application and throughout the program. Must submit a certificate of enrollment or equivalent proof of affiliation for the duration of the program. High school students are not eligible. Foreign participants must possess a valid passport.

Required Documents

Applicants are required to submit the following documents:

Internship Project Description CV (Curriculum Vitae) Motivation Letter A Letter of Recommendation A Letter Requesting Financial Support (only for those who need it)

How to Apply

Interested candidates must apply online through the official RIKEN CBS website. The application link is available on the Opportunities Corners website.

Historical and Current Context of Neuroscience Funding

The RIKEN CBS Summer Program exemplifies the global commitment to advancing neuroscience research. Historically, funding for neuroscience has fluctuated, often tied to national priorities and economic conditions. However, the increasing recognition of the societal impact of brain disorders and the potential for breakthroughs in understanding the brain has led to sustained investment in recent decades. Programs like RIKEN CBS play a crucial role in training the next generation of neuroscientists and fostering international collaboration.

Expert Perspective

Dr. Akari Tanaka, a professor of neuroscience at Kyoto University, emphasizes the importance of international research experiences for young scientists. "Programs like the RIKEN CBS Summer Internship provide invaluable opportunities for students to collaborate with leading researchers, gain exposure to diverse perspectives, and develop the skills necessary to tackle complex challenges in neuroscience," she says. "These experiences are crucial for fostering innovation and accelerating progress in the field."

Furthermore, Dr. Kenji Sato, a research fellow at the University of Tokyo specializing in educational programs, notes the significance of such initiatives in broadening access to research opportunities. "Fully funded programs are essential for ensuring that talented students from all socioeconomic backgrounds can participate in cutting-edge research," Dr. Sato states. "By removing financial barriers, these programs contribute to a more diverse and inclusive scientific community, ultimately leading to more impactful discoveries."

Conclusion

The RIKEN CBS Summer Program 2026 offers a unique and fully funded opportunity for aspiring neuroscientists to gain valuable research experience in Japan. With its comprehensive financial support and diverse program options, it represents a significant investment in the future of brain science.