STEM Research in Tokyo

Unique study opportunities

• Design and conduct your own independent research project with the guidance of a faculty mentor.
• Work with a research team and develop the skills to collect, interpret, and critique data.
• Resolve a new question or evaluate a design.

Language

Language Study: None

Courses and credit

Requirements While Abroad

To successfully complete this program:

• Take a lab research course for 7.5 quarter/5 semester UC units.
• You must take the course pass/no pass; letter grade is not available.

Current Program Courses

You will take a lab research course in the Engineering research track or Science research track focusing on a STEM topic in the areas of:

• Biological sciences
• Chemistry
• Computer science
• Earth sciences
• Engineering
• Mathematics
• Physics

You will select 2-3 lab placements from the list below (lists will be posted in late October 2025). Final placement is determined by University of Tokyo. 

• Engineering research track lab list
• Science research track lab list

Additional or optional coursework, internships, and research for academic credit are not possible on this program.

Catalogs and resources

• University of Tokyo Science Summer Lab Research: Find a list of available host laboratories.
• University of Tokyo Engineering Lab Research​: Find a list of available host laboratories.
• UCEAP Course Catalog: See a list of courses UC students have taken on this program.
• Campus Credit Abroad: Learn the types of credit (major, minor, general education, elective) students from your campus received at this location.

Academic culture

Japan's collectivist culture places a high value on punctuality, courtesy, and proper conduct. As an exchange student, it's crucial to be sensitive to and prepare for these societal norms and values. Learning a few basic Japanese greetings can foster more meaningful connections with the people you meet.

If you're unsure about appropriate behavior in Japan, research different facets of Japanese culture before arrival; observe how locals conduct their daily lives, and/or consult the Study Center. Japanese professors and acquaintances are unlikely to point out cultural missteps directly, but your actions will be noticed and can reflect on both you and the program. 

Compared to the UC system, Japanese universities have a different academic culture. Japanese and other international students tend to be less focused on grades, and courses are often less structured; professors may not provide a detailed syllabus or might alter the content mid-term. However, classroom expectations are more formal. Attendance is mandatory, with tardiness often counting toward an absence. The student-professor relationship is also more hierarchical, where professors are viewed as the ultimate authority and are seldom challenged. 

Anticipate that this program will be different from previous classroom or research experiences at the UC.  It will require a high degree of self-efficacy, cultural acumen, and resilience. Each lab research group is unique and has its own culture and dynamic depending on the leading professor, the research assistants, and the research subject area. Follow your supervisor's instructions, observe your peers, and be proactive about asking questions if anything is unclear. 

Grades

You will earn direct UC credit and grades for all coursework.  Final grades for this program are usually available by mid-August, and requests for early grades cannot be accommodated. If you intend to put yourself on your campus degree list for graduation while on UCEAP, consult your campus advisors before departure about possible delays in the degree verification process.

In Japanese universities, professors typically do not provide detailed rubrics; provide feedback on written work, or return final exams. The grade you receive is generally considered sufficient feedback.

Poor grades are often caused by tardiness, excessive absences, missed assignments, and a lack of communication with instructors. Attendance at all classes, field trips, and academic events is required and is often factored into your final grade, unless you are formally excused for a valid reason.