Fully Funded OIST Research Internship Program Japan 2026.
Fully Funded OIST Research Internship Program, Japan.
The OIST Research Internship Program is a prestigious, fully funded research opportunity offered by the Okinawa Institute of Science and Technology (OIST) Graduate School, Japan.
Designed for talented undergraduate and master’s students in STEM fields, this international research internship offers participants the opportunity to work in cutting-edge laboratories under the supervision of world-class faculty members.
With its highly international environment and strong focus on interdisciplinary research, the OIST internship is an ideal pathway for students aiming to strengthen their research profile or planning to apply for OIST’s PhD program in the future.
What Is the OIST Research Internship Program?
The OIST Research Internship Program is a short-term research placement lasting 3 to 6 months, where selected students join an OIST research unit based on:
- Academic background
- Suitability of the proposed research
- Availability of funding
- Space in the host laboratory
Interns actively participate in ongoing research projects while gaining hands-on experience with advanced scientific techniques and state-of-the-art facilities.
Research Fields Available at OIST.
Students can choose research projects from a wide range of STEM disciplines, including:
- Physics
- Chemistry
- Mathematical and Computational Sciences
- Marine Science
- Neuroscience
- Molecular, Cellular, and Developmental Biology
- Environmental and Ecological Science
- Quantum Science
Project availability depends on faculty acceptance and is updated regularly on the OIST Research Internship Faculty & Project Availability page.
Who Should Apply for the OIST Research Internship?.
The program is ideal for:
- Students who want to enhance their current research by learning new techniques
- Applicants interested in interdisciplinary research exposure
- Students seeking international research experience in Japan
- Candidates planning to apply for the OIST PhD Program
- Students who value diversity, equity, and inclusion
OIST strongly encourages applications from women and underrepresented groups, creating an inclusive academic environment free from discrimination.
OIST Research Internship as a Pathway to PhD Admission
For students considering applying to OIST’s PhD program, the research internship offers a unique advantage.
Lab Rotation Equivalency
- Interns who apply to the OIST PhD program within one year of completing the internship may request Lab Rotation Equivalency
- An internship of 4 months or longer can be counted as one in-field lab rotation
- OIST PhD students must complete three lab rotations, including one out-of-field rotation
This makes the internship a strategic step toward full PhD admission at OIST.
Financial Support and Benefits.
- The OIST Research Internship Program is fully funded, and support is provided only to the intern (not dependents).
What the Program Covers.
Travel Expenses
- One direct round-trip air ticket
- Travel dates aligned with the internship period
Accommodation
- Fully furnished accommodation (on or off campus)
- Funded by OIST or the host research unit
Visa & Administrative Support
- Assistance with Certificate of Eligibility (CoE)
- Support for visa application and registration procedures
Internship Allowance
- 2,400 JPY per working day
- Covers daily living expenses in Okinawa
Transportation Support
- Free OIST Shuttle Bus Pass
- Easy access between accommodation, campus, and facilities
Why Choose OIST for a Research Internship?
- Over 1,100 staff members from 70+ countries
- World-class research facilities and faculty
- Strong emphasis on interdisciplinary science
- Highly international and collaborative research culture
- Excellent preparation for global PhD programs
How to Apply for the OIST Research Internship Program.
Application procedures, eligibility requirements, and deadlines are explained in detail on the official “Apply to Research Internship” section of the OIST Graduate School website.
Applicants are advised to:
- Review available faculty projects carefully
- Align their academic background with the chosen research unit
- Prepare strong academic documents and research motivation
