Expand your horizons though bioplastics research in Japan, apply by Dec. 31

Do you have a passion for sustainability and a sense of adventure? Applications are now being accepted for a new International Research Program in Japan.

For approximately 10 weeks in Summer 2024, a cohort of selected students will travel to and reside in Kyoto, Japan, where they will perform hands-on research in the Department of Biobased Materials at the Kyoto Institute of Technology (KIT).

Available projects will span the continuum of relevant research challenges facing the production of biobased plastics and materials, including from upstream conversion, to polymer synthesis and materials development, to characterization of the resulting products, to their ultimate biodegradation. All participants will receive a stipend ($6,000 for undergraduate students, $7,500 for graduate students) in addition to airfare.

No prior research experience is required. To be eligible, all participants must be:

1. A U.S. citizen or permanent resident.
2. At least 18 years old prior to travel in mid-May 2024 (exact date TBD).
3. A full-time student in good standing.
4. Pursuing a degree in a STEM discipline.

Note: given the nature of the research, the most competitive applicants will have experience in one of the following or a closely related area: chemical sciences/engineering, biological sciences/engineering and materials sciences/engineering.

Learn more about the project or contact Professor David Nielsen at [email protected].

To apply:

1. Visit fultonapps.asu.edu/scholarship.
2. Click on any major.
3. Look for “International Research Experiences for Students (IRES) Japan Scholarship.”

The deadline to apply is Sunday, December 31, 2023.

This project is supported via a grant from the National Science Foundation.