Riken RIH Summer Internship

Riken RIH Summer Internship 2026 | Fully Funded Robotics Research in Japan

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Are you a student passionate about robotics, AI, and cognitive science? The Riken RIH Summer Internship 2026 offers a fully funded, hands-on research opportunity in Kyoto, Japan. Participants will work directly with researchers at the Guardian Robot Project (GRP), gaining practical experience in human-robot interaction, artificial intelligence, and advanced robotics development.

This article covers everything you need to know: eligibility, research areas, benefits, application process, and deadlines.

What is the Riken RIH Summer Internship?

The Riken RIH Summer Internship is hosted by the RIKEN Guardian Robot Project (GRP), one of Japan’s leading centers for robotics and AI research. This program allows international students to collaborate with GRP research teams and work on cutting-edge projects that combine robotics, cognitive science, psychology, and AI.

Interns learn to design autonomous robots capable of interacting with humans safely, while gaining invaluable research experience in a multidisciplinary environment.

Also Check: RIKEN IMS Internship Program 2026 in Japan

Internship Duration

Students can choose between two program types:

  • Type A (Long Stay): July 23 – September 25, 2026 (8 weeks)
  • Type B (Short Stay): August 20 – September 25, 2026 (4 weeks)

All interns will present their research findings on September 11, 2026.

Also Check: ITRI Global Internship Program 2026 in Taiwan

Who Can Apply for the Riken RIH Summer Internship?

Eligible applicants must:

  • Be undergraduate or graduate students worldwide
  • Maintain student status throughout the internship
  • Have some research experience in robotics, AI, or cognitive science (preferred for most teams)

Exclusion: Students from universities collaborating with GRP, such as Kyoto University, Doshisha University, and Nara Institute of Science and Technology, are not eligible.

Also Check: CRG Undergraduate & Master’s Research Internship 2026 in Spain

Research Areas at the Riken RIH Summer Program

Interns will join specialized teams:

  1. Knowledge Acquisition & Dialogue – Teaching robots to understand and communicate naturally.
  2. Psychological Process Research – Studying human-robot cognition and emotion.
  3. Interactive Robot Research – Building autonomous robots for real-world tasks.
  4. Multimodal Data Recognition – Using AI to integrate visual, auditory, and tactile data.
  5. Man-Machine Collaboration – Enhancing human-robot teamwork.
  6. Behavior Learning Research – Developing adaptive robot behaviors.

This program merges AI, robotics, psychology, brain science, and cognitive science, providing a truly multidisciplinary experience.

Benefits of the Riken RIH Summer Internship in Japan

This internship is fully funded and covers:

  • Round-trip airfare or bullet train fare
  • Accommodation allowance: ¥11,100/day (adjusted for longer stays)
  • Daily stipend: ¥2,400/day
  • Total reimbursement: up to ¥393,900 (~$2,600) for the first month

Note: Interns initially cover expenses and receive reimbursement after submitting required documents.

How to Apply for the Riken RIH Summer Internship Program

Step 1: Prepare Documents

  • CV (resume)
  • Motivation Letter – Mention your preferred research team and program type
  • Research Achievements – Include publications or conference presentations

Step 2: Submit Your Application

Step 3: Screening and Interview

  • Applications are reviewed after the deadline
  • Shortlisted candidates are contacted for online interviews
  • Results announced by April 27, 2026

Why You Should Join the Riken RIH Internship

  • Collaborate with world-class researchers in AI and robotics
  • Gain hands-on experience in advanced robotics research
  • Work in a multidisciplinary international team
  • Receive full financial support, including accommodation and travel
  • Boost your research portfolio and career prospects

Conclusion

The Riken RIH Summer Internship 2026 is a rare opportunity for ambitious students to gain international research experience in robotics and AI, fully funded in Japan. If you are passionate about robotics, cognitive science, or artificial intelligence, this internship could be a career-defining experience.

Apply before March 27, 2026, and take your first step toward working with the leading minds in robotics at RIKEN.

Official Link to Apply