The National Institute of Genetics (NIG) invites applications for its fully funded Summer Internship Program 2026 in Japan. This program offers international students a unique opportunity to gain professional experience in genetics and related fields. The internship will span approximately six weeks, providing a chance to engage in meaningful research while experiencing Japanese culture.

  • 🧬 NIG-INTERN offers a genetics research internship for undergraduates and postgraduates to gain hands-on experience under NIG mentors.
  • 🎓 Program includes scientific training, lab visits, communication workshops, and a final presentation at “NIG-INTERN Reports Symposium.”
  • 📜 Certificates awarded to interns who successfully complete the program; optional participation in lectures, journal clubs, and seminars.
  • 🏫 Eligibility: prefinal-year students in various bachelor’s or master’s programs; PhD students or non-prefinal students are not eligible.
  • ⚖️ Highly competitive: e.g., 6 students selected from 1,240+ applicants in 2025.
  • 🖥️ Applications accepted only online; open Dec 1, 2025 – Jan 5, 2026 (JST); must follow application guidelines.
  • 💰 Program costs shared: NIG covers airfare (up to 200,000 JPY) and insurance; interns cover excess airfare, domestic travel, accommodation (~70,000 JPY), and living expenses.
  • 📅 Internship period: June 8 – July 17, 2026; requests for different durations not considered.
  • 🌏 Open to all nationalities, but applicants must live outside Japan at the time of application.
  • ❌ Office closed Dec 27, 2025 – Jan 4, 2026; FAQ clarifies eligibility questions.

Designation

Intern – National Institute of Genetics (NIG)

Research Area

Genetics and Related Fields in Life Sciences

Location

National Institute of Genetics, Japan

Eligibility/Qualification

  • Open to all international students from any nationality.
  • Students must be in one of the following categories:
  • 3rd Year of a 4-Year Bachelor Program
  • 2nd Year of a 3-Year Bachelor Program
  • 4th Year of a 5-Year Program
  • 1st Year of a 2-Year Master Program
  • 5th Year of a 6-Year Program
  • Students interested in enrolling in the NIG PhD program are also eligible to apply.

Job Description

  • Conduct research in genetics and related fields under supervision.
  • Collaborate with NIG researchers and staff to advance scientific research projects.
  • Participate in seminars and workshops.
  • Submit assignments and a final report at the end of the internship.
  • Receive a certificate of completion after successfully completing the program.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their applications through the online application portal. Required documents include:

  • Updated Resume (CV)
  • Letter of Motivation/Self Advertisement
  • Academic Transcripts
  • Two Letters of Recommendation from teachers or academic supervisors

Last Date to Apply

05 January 2026


This is a fantastic opportunity for students seeking to enhance their academic and research skills while enjoying an immersive cultural experience in Japan.