International Institution of Information Technology, Hyderabad (India)

International Institute of Information Technology, Hyderabad (IIIT Hyderabad), established in 1998 as India’s first not-for-profit public–private partnership (N-PPP) institution, is a research-led university focused on technology-driven solutions for societal impact. Over the past two decades, it has become a leader in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Robotics, machine learning for science, and data-driven technologies, fostering strong interdisciplinary research and collaborations with national and global industries. IIIT Hyderabad hosts several renowned research centers of excellence and offers an innovative, flexible curriculum that encourages students, both undergraduate and postgraduate, to engage in cutting-edge research. The institute also nurtures holistic development through initiatives in arts, culture, sports, and community engagement, creating a dynamic and inclusive academic environment.

Amgen Scholars at IIIT Hyderabad will participate in an intensive eight-week research training program  with an emphasis on modern Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) applications in healthcare, drug design, and discovery. Each scholar will be mentored by a faculty member and integrated into an active research lab to pursue a specific project. The program includes weekly lectures, tutorials, and hands-on sessions designed to build foundational and applied expertise in AI/ML. At the end of the program, scholars will submit a research report and present their findings through a poster or oral presentation at the Amgen Scholars Asia Symposium, an event that brings together all Amgen Scholars from all host institutions across Asia for knowledge sharing and collaboration.

Applicants must be undergraduate students enrolled at a university in the Asia region who will return to their home institution for at least one semester after completing the program. They should demonstrate a strong interest in pursuing a Ph.D. in the future. Selected Amgen Scholars will receive a stipend, on-campus accommodation, and travel support.

8 June - 6 August 2026

1 February 2026

 Kyoto University (Japan)

Located in historic Kyoto, Kyoto University is one of Asia’s leading research universities. Kyoto University’s mission is to sustain and develop its historical commitment to academic freedom and to pursue harmonious coexistence within the human and ecological community on this planet. Kyoto University is committed to providing a free-thinking academic environment with a global perspective.

Amgen Scholars at the Kyoto University participate in a challenging and intensive eight-week summer research program under the guidance of Kyoto University’s faculty mentors, graduate student assistants, and staff, with training opportunities in the laboratory. Kyoto University will accept undergraduate students in laboratories among research fields that include Molecular Medicine, Cell Biology, Neuroscience, Microbiology, Bioengineering, Chemistry, and Quantum Dynamics.

The major objectives of the Kyoto University Amgen Scholars Program are to provide scholars with a focused, intellectually stimulating summer research program and equip them with real-world skills and techniques that will be transferable to their future careers in science. Scholars will be encouraged to develop their analytical skills by critically assessing their research methods and results. They will also be able to develop their communication skills, in terms of writing up research results and summaries of their findings, as well as communicating effectively with their peers and faculty mentors.

Activities outside of the lab provide excellent opportunities for scholars to learn about the wider world, experience interacting with diverse groups of people, and think deeply about their future paths. Scholars will have the opportunity to take part in a wide range of programs both within Kyoto University and the city of Kyoto. With 17 World Heritage Sites, world-renowned gardens, art galleries, museums, and traditional festivals, Kyoto offers a wealth of activities for curious minds.

5 June - 6 August 2026

1 February 2026

 National University of Singapore

Amgen Scholars at the National University of Singapore (NUS) participate in 2 months of intensive research in the areas of biomedical sciences and biotechnology. Each student will join the laboratory of a scientist not just from the department of biological sciences at the Faculty of Science, but also from the departments of biochemistry, physiology, pharmacology, microbiology and anatomy at the School of Medicine. The areas of research across over 200 laboratories in the Life Science departments include but are not limited to: molecular genomics, ageing, cellular development and imaging, infectious diseases, cancer and stem cells, protein structure and drug design. During the program, the scholars will present their findings in laboratory group meetings to their supervisors and peers. They will also present a poster/oral presentation at the end of the program symposium, which Amgen Scholars from host institutions across the Asia region will attend. The department also has weekly colloquiums and seminars by invited professors that scholars are welcome to participate.

Founded in 1905, the NUS is the oldest university in Singapore and ranked highest among Asia’s universities. As a regional top educational and research university, NUS is also committed to establish a global campus with the aim of exposing our students to a holistic learning experience outside the classroom. NUS is located in the tropics and has a wide biodiversity for international students to appreciate. Singapore is a multi-cultural and safe country with the most well-developed infrastructure for international students to study and reside. It is also convenient to travel to other SE Asia countries, China or Australia.

NUS welcomes undergraduates studying in Asian universities to apply to the AMGEN Scholar Program, especially from the surrounding SE Asia countries. Prior research experience is preferred but not necessary. We will assess applicants on their aptitude, attitude and curiosity towards life science research, strong letters of recommendation and interest in pursuing further PhD training. Participants will receive a generous stipend with housing, travel grants to and from Singapore, as well as travel to the Asia symposium hosted in Japan.

2 June - 6 August 2026

1 February 2026

 The University of Tokyo (Japan)

The Amgen Scholars Program at the University of Tokyo offers outstanding undergraduates from across Asia the opportunity to engage in advanced research at one of the region’s top universities. Students join a lab within one of participating graduate schools or institutes: Medicine, Engineering, Science, Agricultural and Life Sciences, Arts and Sciences, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Industrial Science, or Advanced Science and Technology.

Before arriving, each student works with their host faculty to develop a clear research plan, allowing both sides to prepare effectively. Once in Japan, students conduct research under the guidance of tenured faculty and collaborate with graduate students and postdocs. They are also expected to attend seminars and related events to broaden their academic perspective.

Beyond the lab, the program includes Japanese language classes and cultural activities, offering students a chance to explore Japan and connect with local peers. This immersive experience fosters both scientific growth and a deeper understanding of global values.

4 June - 6 August 2026

1 February 2026

 Tsinghua University (China)

Amgen Scholars at the Tsinghua University consists of eight weeks of intensive research program in a wide range of fields in biomedical sciences. The accepted applicants will join a faculty’s laboratory and involve in one or more specific research projects. Each Scholar will have a faculty member as his/her mentor. In addition, a postdoc, a technician or a graduate student will be assigned to train and assist the student in the lab. As a member of the lab, the Scholar will have the opportunity to participate in a series of academic activities, such as weekly lab meetings, group discussions, presentation training, and campus-wide seminars of interests. In addition, other non-academic gathering will be organized, such as networking events, Chinese and Beijing culture exploration, etc.

Amgen Scholars’ benefits include a stipend, round-trip air travel to Beijing, paid summer session tuition, housing, and meal allowance on campus. Program Manager (PM) will work with the Scholars and assist them with all aspects of life on campus outside the lab. PM will meet with the Scholars regularly to provide necessary supports and coordinates among faculty, lab members, and the scholars.

4 June - 6 August 2026

1 February 2026

AI-based Application Success Predictor

1. Strong Academic Record

A solid academic performance (high GPA/grades) is regularly highlighted by host institutions as a core part of competitive applications — even if there’s no fixed minimum. It signals readiness to handle research.

Why this matters:
Selection committees use transcripts to assess a student’s mastery of fundamentals and potential to contribute to research projects.

2. Letters of Recommendation That Highlight Research Potential

Strong recommendation letters greatly influence decision-making. Effective letters comment on analytical skills, intellectual curiosity, persistence, and ability to complete a research project — all critical for summer research success.

Tip: Ask mentors who know you well and who can speak specifically about your research promise — not just good grades.

3. Compelling Personal Statement / Statement of Purpose

This is where you explain your motivation for research and how the program fits your goals. Applicants who articulate clear interests in science/biotech and research fit tend to stand out.

What helps:

A personal story of research curiosity

Clear connection between your background and your proposed research interests

Demonstration of long-term research/graduate career aspirations

4. Research Experience or Demonstrated Potential

Prior research experience helps but is not required — programs explicitly state they welcome both experienced students and those new to research.

What you can highlight if you lack experience:

Relevant coursework with lab components

Class projects that involved experimental work or data analysis

Independent study or volunteer lab work

This shows initiative and helps compensate for formal research history.

5. Clear Interest in Science & Long-Term Goals

Many host institutions value applicants who are clearly committed not just to a short-term summer opportunity, but to further scientific training (e.g., graduate study) and a research career.

6. Effective Communication Skills

Success in science involves communicating research — both verbally and in writing. Strong writing in your application and good interview presentation (if required) are strong predictors of positive outcomes.

Relevant signals of communication strength:

Well-structured personal statement

Clear explanations of research interest

Good letters highlighting written/oral abilities

🎯 What Predicts Success Within the Program

Once selected, several factors are commonly associated with positive outcomes — such as producing publishable work, strong symposium presentations, or securing further opportunities:

⭐ Engaged Mentorship

Programs pair scholars with faculty mentors; those who connect well with mentors often have a more productive experience.

⭐ Initiative and Curiosity

Scholars who proactively seek understanding, ask questions, and explore beyond minimum requirements tend to learn and produce more.

⭐ Collaboration & Networking

Engaging in seminars, events, and discussions with peers and scientists often expands skills and opens doors to future research opportunities.

📌 Summary: Proven Success Drivers

(Based on program requirements and advice from multiple Amgen Scholars host sites.)

🧠 Final Tips to Improve Your Success Odds

Start early: Begin building research experience and relationships with potential recommenders well before the application season.

Tailor your statement: Make it specific to the host institution’s focus areas.

Get feedback: Have mentors or research advisors review your application materials.

Prepare for interviews (if any): Practice explaining your interests and past work clearly.