University of Tokyo Amgen Scholars Programme for Undergraduate Students

The Amgen Scholars Programme at the University of Tokyo offers ambitious and talented undergraduate students from across the globe an opportunity to engage in scientific research at one of Asia’s and the world’s foremost higher education institutions. Participants in the programme will be assigned to a laboratory under the guidance of a leading scholar from one of the university’s five participating graduate schools and institutes: the Graduate School of Medicine, Graduate School of Engineering, Graduate School of Science, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Sciences, and the Institute of Industrial Science.

To ensure an enriching experience, host faculty members will consult with the students beforehand to help them develop a clear research plan prior to their arrival in Japan. This preparation allows both the students and the laboratories to organise research goals and methodologies effectively. Upon arrival, students will work closely with full-time tenured faculty members, as well as postdoctoral researchers and graduate students, within the laboratory environment. They will also engage in seminars and other research-focused activities to broaden their understanding and experience.

Beyond laboratory work, participants will have the opportunity to explore Japan’s culture, language, and people. Japanese language classes and cultural activities will be arranged, offering ample chances to interact with local students. This combination of advanced research exposure and cultural immersion aims to provide students with cutting-edge academic experiences while creating lasting memories of Japan. Ultimately, the programme aspires to inspire participants to excel as researchers and develop as globally aware individuals.

Requirements for UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program

UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program (hereby referred to as the summer program) applicants must be undergraduate students who are:
 –  Attending colleges or universities across the Asia region* that award a bachelor’s degree (or its equivalent); and
 –  At the minimum, have completed their first year of undergraduate study at the time the summer program begins, and
 –  Not graduating before the summer program begins, and will resume undergraduate studies for at least 1 semester or 1 quarter after the summer program ends

UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program applicants must also:

• Have a strong record of academic performance; and
• Have a good working knowledge of English, demonstrated by a minimum TOEFL (iBT) score of 72,
• IELTS overall band score of 5.5, Cambridge English FCE, TOEIC score of 1095, TOEIC L&R score of 785,
• or TOEIC S&W score of 310, if not a native English speaker or if English is not their first language, and
• Have an interest in pursuing a Ph.D.

For a list of eligible countries, please check the Eligibility section of the Amgen Scholars Program webpage: https://amgenscholars.com/asia-program/

Expectation:

• To devote full effort to participation in the Amgen Scholars Program. Scholars cannot take any courses or hold a job throughout the duration of the program.
•  In addition, all participants must be able to attend the program for its entire duration.
•  To live in the accommodation provided by UTokyo.
•  To participate fully in the day-to-day life of the research group, respect the work of all members of the laboratory, and attend and participate in laboratorymeetings or other gatherings.
• However, for students based in Japan, we are open to discussions and considerations based on events or commitments related to their affiliated university or department.
•   – To attend the orientation on the first day of the program, all required conferences, activities and social events.
•   – To give a poster/presentation describing his/her summer research project.
•   – To submit a research paper to the UTokyo Amgen Scholars Program Director at the conclusion of the program.

Application Documents

Below is a list of Attachments you will be requested to upload through TAO. Please submit the files without encryption.

• Letters of Recommendation: Submitted through TAO, by two referees
• Latest CV: Elaborate in-depth descriptions of any work experience, responsibilities or projects relevant to your field of study. (Max. 500 words)
• Academic Transcript: Obtain an official academic transcript in English and scan all pages including back pages and notations.
• Personal Identification: Scan the ID page of your passport or travel document issued by the government. Alternatively, a valid student ID or a national ID can be accepted
• Portrait photo: Note that your full face should be visible in the photo, and it should be taken from the front with your eyes open.
• Proof of English proficiency

Application Deadline

February 1, 2025

How to Apply

Interested and qualified? Go to admissions-office.net to apply

• Step 1. Create an Account and Start Your Application: To initiate your application, please create a TAO account by clicking on “Account registration.” The account name should match the legal name in the alphabet as written on your passport or travel document issued by the government. You can create an account on https://admissions-office.net/en/applicant/sign_up
• Step 2: Request Recommendation Letters
• Step 3: Complete Application

For more details, visit UTokyo webpage