60 Junior Research Associate: The Junior Research Associate (JRA) program at RIKEN provides part-time positions for energetic and open-minded graduate students enrolled in Japanese University Ph.D. programs. This opportunity allows them to conduct research alongside RIKEN scientists, enhancing their skills and contributing to innovative research.
Designation:
Junior Research Associate (JRA)
Research Area:
- Mathematical Sciences (Pure/Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, AI)
- Physics (Particle, Nuclear, Astrophysics, Condensed Matter)
- Chemistry
- Biology (Cell Biology, Developmental Biology, Neuroscience, etc.)
- Medical Science (Immunology, Oncology, Genome Science, etc.)
- Engineering
Location:
RIKEN, Japan
Eligibility/Qualification:
Candidates must fulfill both of the following requirements:
- Must be enrolled in a doctorate program at a Japanese graduate school as of April 1, 2026. Candidates to be hired on October 1, 2026, must be enrolled as of October 1, 2026.
- Must meet one of the following conditions:
- Joint Graduate School Category: Enrolled in a graduate school with a joint program agreement with RIKEN, supervised by a RIKEN researcher.
- Joint Research Category: Enrolled in a graduate school involved in joint research with RIKEN.
- Research Collaboration Category: Enrolled in a graduate school with a research collaboration agreement with RIKEN.
Note: Individuals whose term of study exceeds the standard Ph.D. duration are not eligible. Ensure confirmation with your scholarship office regarding eligibility.
Job Description:
As a Junior Research Associate, you will conduct research under the supervision of a RIKEN researcher, contributing to projects in various scientific fields while gaining hands-on experience. Your role will include collaboration on research initiatives, data analysis, and potentially presenting findings.
How to Apply:
- Register online in the RIKEN JRA Recruitment and Selection system.
- Submit all required documents including:
- Candidate’s reason for applying and outline of current research
- Research record and academic transcripts
- Letter of recommendation from the research supervisor
- Ensure that the supervising professor approves of your application.
Application Page:
- [RIKEN JRA Application System (English)](insert link)
- [RIKEN JRA Application System (Japanese)](insert link)
Last Date to Apply:
Submit your application by 13:00 (JST), Friday, October 24, 2025.
For inquiries, please contact the Junior Research Associate Desk at jra@ml.riken.jp.







