RIH Summer Internship Program

Overview

The RIH Summer Internship Program 2025 is an exceptional opportunity for undergraduate and graduate students to gain hands-on experience in cutting-edge robotics research. Hosted by the Guardian Robot Project (GRP) at RIKEN, this internship allows students to work alongside top researchers in the field, enhancing their skills and contributing to advancements in robotics.

The program is available in two formats:

• Long Stay Program (Type A): July 24, 2025 – September 19, 2025
• Short Stay Program (Type B): August 21, 2025 – September 19, 2025

Interns will participate in research activities, collaborate with teams, and present their findings at the end of the program.

Requirements

Applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• Must be a currently enrolled undergraduate or graduate student at the time of application and throughout the internship period.
• Must belong to a university that can issue a formal letter of request and agreement.
• Students from universities with existing collaborative research plans with GRP (e.g., Kyoto University, Doshisha University, Nara Institute of Science and Technology) are not eligible.

Location: Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto, a historic city in Japan, is renowned for its blend of traditional culture and modern innovation. As a hub of education and research, it houses top institutions and cutting-edge research centers. The city offers a vibrant environment for students, with numerous cultural sites, advanced research facilities, and a high quality of life.

How to Apply

Applicants must submit the following documents via email to robotics-info@ml.riken.jp before the deadline:

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV) – Must follow the RIKEN format.
2. Motivation Letter – A free-form document stating research interests, the preferred research team, and whether applying for Type A or Type B.
3. Research Achievements – A summary of relevant academic or research accomplishments.

Visit our Statement of Purpose & CV/Resume Guide to prepare winning documentation.

Selection Process:

• Applications will be reviewed after the deadline.
• Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an online interview.
• Final selection results will be announced in early April 2025.

Do’s and Don’ts

Do’s:

• Ensure all documents are complete and submitted before the deadline.
• Clearly state research interests and preferred research team in the motivation letter.
• Follow RIKEN’s travel policy for reimbursements.
• Arrange for personal expenses during the internship, as reimbursement may take time.

Don’ts:

• Do not apply if you belong to a university with an existing collaboration with GRP.
• Do not arrange overseas air tickets before receiving instructions from the secretariat.
• Do not expect immediate reimbursement for expenses; processing times vary.
• Do not submit incomplete or incorrect application documents.

Also check SIIT Graduate Scholarship 2025 in Thailand

Deadline

• Application Deadline: March 24, 2025, at 15:00 JST.
• Final Selection Announcement: Early April 2025.

Also apply for Armament and Disarmament Summer School in Sweden

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is the RIH Summer Internship Program paid?

Yes, interns receive financial support for travel and accommodation according to RIKEN’s travel policy.

2. Do I need to be fluent in Japanese?

No, the primary language for research and communication is English.

3. Can students from any country apply?

Yes, both domestic and international students meeting eligibility criteria are welcome to apply.

4. What expenses are covered?

The program covers one round-trip airfare or bullet train fare, accommodation (JPY 11,100 per day), and a daily allowance (JPY 2,400).

5. Will I receive a certificate upon completion?

Yes, all participants who complete the internship successfully will receive a certificate.

6. Can I choose my research project?

Applicants can specify their research interests, but the final project will be assigned after acceptance in consultation with the host principal investigator.

7. Is there an age limit for applying?

No, but applicants must be actively enrolled as students throughout the internship period.

Application Link

Apply Here

For more scholarship opportunities please visit International Scholarships.