RIKEN Research Engineer Fellow
We are now accepting applications for FY 2027 RIKEN Research Engineer Fellows. Call for Applications
Purpose
Recent technological innovations in mathematical science, computational science, and information technology are significantly changing the way scientific research is conducted. Data-driven science utilizing AI and information technology, as well as AI for Science (research utilizing AI), are being promoted both within Japan and internationally.
On the frontlines of scientific research, research engineers are in high demand. In addition to research experience within a specific domain of science, research engineers also possess knowledge and skills related to mathematics, computation, and information. A new type of specialized research profession, research engineers work in tandem with researchers across different fields and projects. Rather than acting as assistants to researchers, they participate in research and development as partners who work together to create research outcomes. In the future, research engineers are expected to contribute to the development of science and technology across academia and industry.
RIKEN hires junior research personnel who aim to become research engineers as RIKEN Research Engineer Fellows, providing them with an environment to play an active role and opportunities to gain experience and improve their skills.
Overview
The RIKEN Research Engineer Fellow Program serves as a gateway for junior research personnel who hope to become research engineers. Fellows gain practical experience in the research use of mathematical science, computational science, and information technology in RIKEN's advanced research. They also receive support to improve their skills in mathematical science, computational sciences, and information technology.
The term of employment for Fellows is up to 3 years. As a general rule, Fellows participate in research projects at multiple laboratories at RIKEN during their term.
RIKEN anticipates that Fellows will grow to play an active role in a wide range of fields across both academia and industry. RIKEN is also actively considering career paths for Fellows who wish to work as research engineers at RIKEN after their term ends. It is also possible that following their terms, some Fellows may elect to work as researchers in specialized fields, utilizing the knowledge and skills in mathematical science, computational science, and information technology acquired during their term.
Application procedures and selection process
The following is an overview of the application procedures and selection process:
- 1.Prospective applicants should check the host laboratory list in the call for applications. After reviewing the overviews of research/research projects and the skills required for Fellows, applicants should select one host laboratory to which they wish to apply.
- 2.Applicants should contact the head of their prospective host laboratory and discuss the specific details of the work they would engage in if hired.
- 3.Applicants should prepare the application documents based on the consultation with the head of the prospective host laboratory. Applicants must also ask two references (who can evaluate the applicant's achievements and abilities) to directly submit letters of reference.
- 4.After completing registration, the applicant must submit the application documents, and the references must submit letters of reference by the deadline.
- 5.The selection will be conducted in two stages: an initial screening (document review) and a secondary screening (an interview [only for those who pass the document review]).
- 6.After the selection process has been completed, applicants will be notified of the results, and hiring procedures will begin.
Latest call for applications
For details on the call for applications for FY 2027 RIKEN Research Engineer Fellows, please see the following link.
Please refer to the diagram below for an overview of application procedures and deadlines for registration and document submission for FY 2027 Fellows.
(Paste application flowchart)
Contact Information
Information Research Promotion Division, Information R&D and Strategy Headquarters, RIKEN 2-1 Hirosawa, Wako, Saitama 351-0198 Email: research-engineer@ml.riken.jp