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The SOKENDAI KEK Tsukuba/J-PARC Summer Student Program is an exciting research opportunity for undergraduate and early graduate students passionate about particle physics, nuclear physics, material science, and accelerator technology.
Organized by KEK (High Energy Accelerator Research Organization) and SOKENDAI (Graduate University for Advanced Studies) in Japan, this program provides hands-on research experience at Tsukuba Campus and the Japan Proton Accelerator Research Complex (J-PARC).
Key Information
- Country: Japan
- Location: KEK Tsukuba and Tokai Campus
- Duration: 8 Weeks
- Deadline: March 3, 2025
- Official link
Duration
- Up to 8 weeks (Mid-June to Mid-August 2025)
- Theory group participants: maximum 4 weeks
- Students must participate in at least one joint session in July or August
- Extensions beyond the program duration are not allowed
Eligibility
- Open to undergraduate (latter half) and master’s students (PhD students are not eligible)
- Students should have foundational knowledge in dynamics, electromagnetism, and quantum mechanics (though flexibility is provided based on research group matching)
- Both Japanese and international students can apply
Research Areas
Participants will join research groups in fields such as:
- Elementary Particle Physics
- Nuclear Physics
- Material & Life Science
- Accelerator Science
- Advanced Detection Systems (Sensors, Electronics, Computing)
- Theoretical Research (Lattice QCD, Quantum Field Theory)
Benefits
- Airfare (arranged and paid directly to travel agencies)
- Accommodation (KEK/J-PARC dormitories)
- Per diem – Daily allowance of JPY 1500
- Domestic travel costs (between Narita/Haneda airport and KEK/J-PARC)
How to Apply?
Step 1: Registration
- Complete the registration form to receive an ID number
Step 2: Submit Application Materials
Email the following documents to kekssp-app@ml.post.kek.jp with the subject: [KEKSSP Application, ID=XXX] (replace XXX with your assigned ID number):
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Official Academic Transcript (with English translation if needed)
- Application Form (Word format)
- Recommendation Letter (from a supervisor/researcher familiar with your work)
Selection Process
- Applications are reviewed based on academic merit and research compatibility
- Interviews may be conducted (via video meeting) if needed
- Results will be announced by April 30, 2025
Conclusion
The SOKENDAI KEK Tsukuba/J-PARC Summer Student Program 2025 is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for students passionate about physics, engineering, and advanced research. With fully funded support, world-class mentors, and access to cutting-edge facilities, this program can be a stepping stone to a successful career in science and technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. What research areas can I work with this program?
Participants can join research in particle physics, nuclear physics, accelerator science, material and life sciences, and computing.
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Q. Will I receive a certificate upon completion?
Yes, students completing the program successfully will receive an official certificate from KEK.
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Q. Is there a fee to apply?
No, there is no application fee.
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Q. Can PhD students apply?
No, the program is only open to undergraduate and master’s students.
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Q. Do I need to know Japanese to participate?
No, the program is conducted in English.
