Japan NIMS International Cooperative Graduate Program Scholarship (ICGP) 2026
About the Organization
The National Institute for Materials Science (NIMS), founded in 2001 and located in Tsukuba, Japan, is the country’s foremost research institution devoted to materials science and engineering. NIMS plays a leading role in developing advanced materials that drive innovation in global industries such as energy, environment, electronics, and healthcare. Through state-of-the-art research facilities, strategic collaborations with universities and industries, and a strong focus on sustainable technologies, NIMS aims to promote scientific excellence and contribute to global technological progress.
About the Program
The International Cooperative Graduate Program (ICGP) 2026 is an advanced doctoral-level training and research program offered by NIMS in partnership with leading universities worldwide. The program enables PhD students to conduct part of their thesis research at NIMS under the joint supervision of NIMS scientists and their home university professors.
This cooperative program provides students with a unique opportunity to gain practical research experience in cutting-edge materials science, develop international research networks, and contribute to global scientific innovation. Participants are fully integrated into active research projects at NIMS, where they work alongside world-class researchers using advanced equipment and methodologies.
The ICGP program is designed to foster international collaboration, promote the exchange of scientific ideas, and train the next generation of materials scientists who will lead future breakthroughs in nanotechnology, energy materials, and smart materials for sustainable development.
Degree Level
PhD (Doctoral Level)
Available Fields of Study
The ICGP 2026 focuses on Materials Science and Engineering, with research opportunities available in the following areas:
-
Nanotechnology and Advanced Materials
-
Energy and Environmental Materials
-
Biomaterials and Soft Materials
-
Functional Materials and Devices
-
Computational and Theoretical Materials Science
Applicants are encouraged to explore the SAMURAI Researcher Directory on the NIMS website to identify potential supervisors and confirm research alignment before submitting their application.
Program Benefits
The selected candidates will receive comprehensive academic and financial support, including:
-
Monthly Living Allowance: 120,000 Japanese Yen to cover living expenses during the research stay.
-
Accommodation Support: Housing fees are covered by NIMS.
-
Access to Advanced Research Facilities: Full access to NIMS laboratories, analytical instruments, and scientific databases.
-
International Research Experience: Collaboration with global experts and exposure to Japan’s world-class research environment.
(Note: Students are responsible for their own utility charges.)
This support allows scholars to focus entirely on research, innovation, and skill development throughout their stay.
Eligible Nationalities
The program is open to international PhD students currently enrolled at partner universities that have signed an official ICGP agreement with NIMS.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
-
Be a full-time PhD student at a partner university.
-
Have a research project relevant to materials science and aligned with NIMS research expertise.
-
Demonstrate English proficiency, proven by one of the following:
-
TOEIC ≥ 740
-
TOEFL (ITP/iBT/CBT) ≥ 550/80/213
-
IELTS ≥ 5.5
-
Or equivalent English certification
-
-
Possess a valid passport and be in good health, certified by a medical report.
Application Procedure
Interested applicants must follow these steps to apply for the NIMS ICGP 2026:
-
Contact a NIMS Researcher:
Visit the NIMS SAMURAI Directory to identify and contact a potential supervisor whose research aligns with your study topic. -
Prepare Required Documents:
-
Official academic transcripts (Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees)
-
English language proficiency certificate
-
Valid passport copy
-
Financial Guarantee Letter (template available on the program page)
-
Health Guarantee Letter (template available)
-
Commitment Letter
-
Recommendation Letter from both the head of the study program and academic supervisor
-
Completed ICGP Application Forms (downloadable from the official page)
-
-
Submit Application:
Upload all documents through the official NIMS ICGP application form by January 1, 2026. -
Screening & Interview:
Applications will be reviewed in January–February 2026, followed by interviews for shortlisted candidates. -
Final Results:
Successful applicants will be notified by mid-March 2026.
Important Dates
-
Application Deadline: January 1, 2026
-
Screening & Interviews: January – February 2026
-
Results Announcement: Mid-March 2026
Why Enroll in NIMS ICGP 2026?
Joining the NIMS International Cooperative Graduate Program provides access to one of the world’s most advanced research environments in materials science. Participants gain exposure to top-tier scientific methodologies, hands-on training in specialized facilities, and guidance from globally recognized researchers.
The program enhances both technical expertise and professional skills, offering students the foundation for a successful research career in academia or industry. Graduates of the ICGP program often continue to contribute to groundbreaking discoveries that shape the future of sustainable materials, nanotechnology, and smart devices.