OIST Research Internship in Japan 2026

The Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) offers a prestigious Research Internship Program in Japan for 2026, providing opportunities for students and recent graduates to gain hands-on research experience. This program is highly competitive and aims to foster an inclusive, equitable, and diverse environment. Below, you’ll find all the essential details to help you apply and prepare for this exciting opportunity. You can check out more internships here.

• Duration: 3 to 6 months.
• Inclusivity: OIST welcomes applications from women and underrepresented groups to support a diverse and inclusive environment.
• PhD Program Pathway: The internship is ideal for those seeking research experience before applying to OIST’s PhD program. Internships of 4+ months may count as one in-field lab rotation for the PhD program.
• Application Deadline: October 15, 2025, 23:59 (JST, UTC+9)
• Result Announcement: Late December 2025
• Internship Period: April 1, 2026 – September 30, 2026

Eligibility Criteria

• Enrolled in the last two years of a bachelor’s degree or any year of a master’s degree, or those who have graduated with a bachelor’s or master’s degree
• Currently enrolled students must obtain approval from their home institution.
• Your academic background should align with the research unit(s) you wish to join at OIST.
• Insurance (for Japanese applicants): If affiliated with a Japanese institution, you must provide proof of insurance (e.g., Gakkensai and Gakkenbai or equivalent coverage).
• Current or graduated PhD students are not eligible for this program

Application Process

Applications are submitted online through the OIST application website. Follow these steps:

1. Create an Account: Register on the application portal.
2. Research Group Selection: Check the available research groups here
3. Select the group leader’s name while filling out your application.
4. Prepare Documents: All documents must be in English and saved as PDFs.
5. Submit Application: Complete the application in one session or save progress and return later.
6. Application Fee: A non-refundable fee of 3,000 JPY is required to process your application.

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Required Documents

Ensure all documents are prepared in English and uploaded as PDFs:

1. Transcript and Diploma

2. Statement of Purpose

• Maximum 400 words (2,500 characters).
• Address the following:
  • How your expertise and skills align with OIST and your desired research unit(s).
  • If interested in multiple units, briefly explain your fit for each.
  • Your goals for the internship and how it aligns with your career aspirations.

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3. Recommendation Letters

• Submit 1–3 letters from professorial-level faculty who know your work personally.
• Letters from lab members, postdoctoral researchers, or non-managerial industry supervisors are not accepted.
• Provide recommenders’ correct email addresses for OIST’s automated request system.
• Ensure recommenders have ample time to submit before the deadline.
• Letters are confidential and cannot be viewed by applicants.

4. Passport

• Provide your passport number and a scan of the photo page.
• If you don’t have a passport, upload another government-issued ID. A valid passport is required for visa and travel arrangements if selected.

5. ID Photo

• Upload a recent photo (taken within the last 3 months) in standard passport orientation, showing your face from the front.

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Optional Documents

English Proficiency Score

• An iELTS or TOEFL score is not required but can strengthen your application if submitted.