If you are an undergraduate or graduate student looking for a fully funded research internship in Japan, the NIMS Internship Program 2026 is one of the strongest opportunities available worldwide. Hosted by the National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS), this prestigious program offers hands-on training in advanced materials science, access to world-class laboratories, and direct mentorship from leading researchers in Japan. The NIMS Internship Program 2026 is open to international and domestic students and is designed to build real research skills, global academic networks, and strong profiles for future PhD, postdoc, and research careers.

NIMS Internship in Japan 2026—Overview

Country: Japan
Host Institution: National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS)
Location: Tsukuba Science City, Ibaraki
Program Type: Research Internship (Fully Funded)
Degree Level: Undergraduate & Graduate (Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD enrolled students)
Internship Duration: Up to 90 consecutive days
Deadline (Researcher Submission): 30 January 2026

NIMS accepts around 100 interns every year from more than 60 countries, making it one of the most international research internship programs in Asia.

Available Research Fields / Areas

Interns can join cutting-edge research groups across a wide range of materials science and engineering disciplines, including:

Nanomaterials and Nanotechnology
Energy Materials (batteries, hydrogen, fuel cells)
Electronic and Quantum Materials
Structural and Functional Materials
Biomaterials and Soft Matter
Computational Materials Science
Sustainable and Green Materials
Advanced Characterization Techniques

Applicants must first identify a suitable host researcher using the NIMS Researcher Directory (SAMURAI) before applying.

Click Here for NIMS Researcher Directory for NIMS Japan International Research internships

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the NIMS Internship Program 2026, applicants must meet the following requirements:

Currently enrolled as an undergraduate or graduate student
Enrollment must remain valid throughout the internship period
Strong academic background relevant to materials science or related fields
Ability to communicate in English (Japanese is not required)
Approval from a NIMS researcher to host the internship

Important:
Students funded by Japanese government scholarships (MEXT, JSPS, JST) must confirm eligibility with their funding agency before applying.

Application Process

Follow the steps given below to successfully apply for fully funded summer research internships abroad in Japan.

Step 1: Visit the official Call for NIMS Internship Program 2026 to study and research in Japan. Review the internship description and requirements carefully.

Click Here to Visit the Official NIMS Japan Research Internship for International Students

Step 2: Visit the NIMS Researchers Directory (SAMURAI) and Identify a researcher whose work matches your academic interests

Click Here for NIMS Researcher Directory to Identify the NIMS Researchers for Research Supervisor

Step 3: Contact only one researcher directly via email and Send all required documents to the researcher

Step 4: Researcher reviews your application and may request a reference letter

Step 5: If approved, the researcher submits your application to NIMS

Click Here to Read Application Guidelines for NIMS-Funded Research Internship in Japan with Stipends

Benefits & Financial Coverage

The NIMS Internship Program 2026 is a fully funded research internship, offering strong financial support:

Daily allowance (stipend)
Free accommodation (utilities excluded)
Transportation support for selected bachelor’s interns, including:
- One round-trip international flight (home country ↔ Narita/Haneda)
- One round-trip highway bus between airport and Tsukuba
Access to state-of-the-art research facilities
Mentorship from globally recognized researchers

These benefits make NIMS one of the most competitive paid internships in Japan for international students.

Apply Now—Study and Work in Japan for Free

The NIMS Internship Program 2026 in Japan is a rare opportunity to gain fully funded international research experience at one of the world’s leading materials science institutes. With generous financial support, global exposure, and access to advanced laboratories, this program is ideal for students aiming for top-tier academic and research careers.

Click Here to Explore the Official 2026 NIMS Internship — Applications Now Open

Also Check: List of Fully Funded Research Internships and Scholarships Worldwide 2026

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the NIMS Internship fully funded?

Yes. Selected interns receive a daily stipend, accommodation, and in some cases travel support.

Can international students apply?

Absolutely. The program welcomes students from all countries.

Is IELTS or TOEFL required?

No formal English test score is required, but you must be able to communicate effectively in English.

Can fresh graduates apply?

No. Applicants must be currently enrolled students during the internship period.

Can the internship exceed 90 days?

Internships are normally up to 90 days. Longer durations require direct approval from the host researcher.

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