NIMS Internship Program

National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS), Japan

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Details checked on 30 October 2026. Dates and amounts change every year. Always confirm on the official page.

Who can apply

Current undergraduate and graduate students. Students who hold Japanese government scholarships (MEXT, JSPS, JST) should check with their provider. Acceptance is not guaranteed.

Watch: how to apply

About this opportunity

Hosted at Japan’s premier materials research center in Tsukuba Science City, the NIMS Internship Program invites international undergraduate, Master’s, and doctoral students to spend up to 90 days conducting hands-on experimental or computational materials research. Interns work with world-class instrumentation across polymers, biomaterials, functional thin films, battery/energy materials, superconductors, and quantum materials.

How to apply, step by step

1. Check that you are eligible. Current undergraduate and graduate students. Students who hold Japanese government scholarships (MEXT, JSPS, JST) should check with their provider. Acceptance is not guaranteed.
2. Note the deadline. Dec – Jan (annual; the 2026 round is closed and the next round is scheduled to open in December 2026 - check the NIMS site) Confirm the exact date on the official page.
3. Prepare your documents. Prior NIMS Researcher Endorsement: Candidates typically browse the NIMS Researcher Directory (SAMURAI), contact a NIMS Principal Investigator matching their materials topic, and obtain agreement to host before or during the application window.; Curriculum Vitae & Research Summary: Highlighting synthesis, characterization (SEM, AFM, XRD, FTIR, spin-coating), or simulation skills.; Official Academic Transcripts & Student Certificate: Proof of active university enrollment and high GPA.; Recommendation Letter: Signed letter from your current academic supervisor..
4. Apply on the official page. Open the official application page and submit your application before the deadline.

How applicants are selected

Pre-Confirmation by Hosting NIMS Researcher → Central NIMS Screening of Academic Transcripts & Research Plan → Award of Living & Housing Support.

Profile of past winners

Materials science, polymer, and chemical engineering students (including Master’s and PhD researchers) who proactively email a NIMS group leader via the SAMURAI portal with a clear experimental plan.

Free materials

Templates, checklists and guides to help you apply.

Browse all free materials →

Tips from our advisors

1. Tailor your CV to the role: lead with the skills and projects the posting asks for.
2. Write a short, specific motivation statement. Name the team or project you want to join and why.
3. Contact potential supervisors before you apply. Send a one-page research summary and a short, specific email.
4. Show a clear link between your past studies, this programme and your career goal. Committees look for a story, not a list.
5. Beyond grades, show leadership and community impact with concrete numbers and outcomes.
6. Spend most of your time on the criteria with the highest weight in the selection breakdown above.

Quick answers

Who can apply for NIMS Internship Program?

Current undergraduate and graduate students. Students who hold Japanese government scholarships (MEXT, JSPS, JST) should check with their provider. Acceptance is not guaranteed.

What does NIMS Internship Program cover?

A daily allowance and accommodation fee support for up to 90 consecutive days (utilities are not included)

When is the deadline for NIMS Internship Program?

Dec – Jan (annual; the 2026 round is closed and the next round is scheduled to open in December 2026 - check the NIMS site) Dates change every year, so confirm on the official page.

Where can I study or work with NIMS Internship Program?

Host countries: Japan.

What documents do I need for NIMS Internship Program?

Prior NIMS Researcher Endorsement: Candidates typically browse the NIMS Researcher Directory (SAMURAI), contact a NIMS Principal Investigator matching their materials topic, and obtain agreement to host before or during the application window.; Curriculum Vitae & Research Summary: Highlighting synthesis, characterization (SEM, AFM, XRD, FTIR, spin-coating), or simulation skills.; Official Academic Transcripts & Student Certificate: Proof of active university enrollment and high GPA.; Recommendation Letter: Signed letter from your current academic supervisor..

How are applicants selected for NIMS Internship Program?

Pre-Confirmation by Hosting NIMS Researcher → Central NIMS Screening of Academic Transcripts & Research Plan → Award of Living & Housing Support.

How much work is the NIMS Internship Program application?

High: NIMS Mentor Agreement + Online Application Form + CV + Official Transcripts + Enrollment Certificate + Recommendation Letter