As students start planning for the summer ahead, the Edwin O. Reischauer Institute of Japanese Studies (RIJS) invites Harvard undergraduate students to an upcoming information session on two unique opportunities to study and work in Japan.
The Summer Internship Program and the Japan Summer Science Undergraduate Research Program (JSSURP) allow students to spend 8–10 weeks immersed in Japanese research and professional environments while gaining hands-on experience and cultural understanding. The information session will take place on Wednesday, November 5, from 4:30–6:00 PM in CGIS South, Room S250 (1730 Cambridge Street, 2nd floor).
During the session, program staff will introduce both opportunities, and alumni will share their experiences and answer questions about research placements, funding, and cultural adjustment.
“Summer science internships in Japan are popular as ever,” said MCB Professor Takao Hensch, JSSURP co-director. “Be sure to attend the info session or reach out directly to begin the match-making process in November–December. We need to adhere strictly to the January deadline due to financial pressures this year.”
As we described last year, JSSURP provides Harvard students in life, physical, natural, engineering, and applied sciences the opportunity to conduct independent, full-time research in leading Japanese laboratories for at least eight weeks. Designed to prepare students for postgraduate research or professional positions, JSSURP offers valuable cross-cultural and scientific experience in a non-credit, fully funded setting.
The Summer Internship Program, organized by RIJS in partnership with the Program on U.S.–Japan Relations at the Weatherhead Center for International Affairs, coordinates a wide array of internship placements across Japan for Harvard students from all concentrations. While some positions are arranged through the program, students are also encouraged to pursue self-identified opportunities, for which funding may be available.
Both programs give preference to students who demonstrate an interest in the Japanese language and culture, as well as enthusiasm for living and conducting research in Japan. Applicants must be in good academic standing and return to Harvard in the fall. Japanese is not a requirement to apply to the Program. For advising or additional information, please contact Jenni Ting.
