RIKEN Center for Brain Science

About RIKEN Center for Brain Science

The RIKEN Center for Brain Science (CBS) represents one of the world's most comprehensive and well-funded neuroscience research institutes, dedicated to understanding the brain's fundamental mechanisms underlying cognition, emotion, memory, and behavior. Established in 1997 as the Brain Science Institute before reorganizing in 2018, CBS has grown to encompass over 40 research laboratories investigating neural systems from molecular mechanisms to systems-level dynamics. CBS operates with exceptional resources including advanced neuroimaging facilities, cutting-edge optogenetics and electrophysiology equipment, transgenic animal facilities, and computational infrastructure supporting large-scale data analysis. The center's annual budget supports approximately 500 researchers, technicians, and support staff working across the full spectrum of neuroscience research. Research achievements include fundamental discoveries in memory formation and consolidation, neural circuitry underlying fear and emotion, mechanisms of sleep and circadian rhythms, and development of innovative techniques for neural circuit mapping. CBS scientists have been recognized with numerous international awards and consistently publish in leading journals including Nature, Science, Cell, and specialized neuroscience journals. The center maintains strong international connections through visiting scientist programs, collaborative research projects, and participation in major neuroscience initiatives worldwide. Its integration within RIKEN's broader research ecosystem provides access to computational resources, chemical biology expertise, and engineering capabilities that enhance neuroscience investigations.

Admission to RIKEN CBS research programs occurs through multiple pathways reflecting the center's integration with Japanese universities. Prospective graduate students should identify laboratories aligned with their interests, contact faculty directly to discuss research fit and potential openings, and apply through appropriate university programs. The Junior Research Associate (JRA) program supports doctoral students conducting thesis research at CBS, providing monthly stipends of approximately 200,000 yen. JRA applications require enrollment at a partner university, a research proposal aligned with CBS laboratory capabilities, faculty endorsement, and strong academic preparation in neuroscience or related fields. International students can pursue the International Program Associate (IPA) pathway, which facilitates enrollment at Japanese universities while conducting research at CBS. This program provides funding equivalent to JRA positions along with support for relocation and cultural adjustment. English proficiency is essential, while Japanese language ability is beneficial but not required. Postdoctoral positions are advertised by individual laboratories throughout the year. Competitive candidates typically possess doctoral degrees in neuroscience or related fields, demonstrated research productivity through publications, specific technical expertise matching laboratory needs, and clear research vision aligned with lab directions.

Graduate training at RIKEN CBS follows the broader RIKEN model where students enroll at partner universities while conducting thesis research in CBS laboratories. Primary university partners include the University of Tokyo, Kyoto University, and Keio University, with international students often affiliated through collaborative arrangements with overseas institutions. Research opportunities span multiple neuroscience domains including molecular and cellular neuroscience investigating synaptic plasticity and neural development, systems neuroscience examining circuit function and neural computation, cognitive neuroscience studying memory, decision-making, and consciousness, and computational neuroscience developing theoretical frameworks and analysis methods. The training environment emphasizes both technical mastery and conceptual development. Students gain expertise in specific methodologies such as electrophysiology, imaging, or computational analysis while developing broad understanding of neuroscience principles. Regular laboratory meetings, center-wide seminars, and journal clubs facilitate exposure to diverse research approaches. CBS hosts intensive summer courses introducing advanced techniques to students and postdocs from around the world. These programs combine lectures from leading researchers with hands-on laboratory experience, providing concentrated training opportunities while building international networks.

Student Life & Environment

Life at RIKEN CBS combines focused research engagement with the supportive community atmosphere characteristic of RIKEN's Wako campus. Graduate students and postdocs work within individual laboratories while participating in center-wide activities including seminars, symposia, and social events that build connections across research groups. The Wako campus provides comfortable research environments with modern facilities and amenities. On-site cafeterias offer affordable meals, while convenience stores and the campus gym support daily needs. The research atmosphere encourages long hours during intense experimental periods while recognizing the importance of sustainability and work-life balance. International researchers benefit from RIKEN's comprehensive support services including Japanese language instruction, housing assistance, and cultural orientation. The CBS community includes researchers from dozens of countries, creating a multicultural environment where English serves as a common language while opportunities exist to develop Japanese language skills. The broader Tokyo metropolitan area provides endless recreational and cultural opportunities during leisure time. CBS's location allows easy access to Tokyo's museums, restaurants, entertainment, and natural areas while offering more affordable housing than central Tokyo locations.

Location & Surroundings

RIKEN CBS occupies dedicated buildings within the Wako campus in Saitama Prefecture, approximately 30 minutes northwest of central Tokyo by train. The campus setting provides a focused research environment separated from urban distractions while maintaining convenient access to Tokyo's resources and the international airports at Narita and Haneda. The Wako area offers comfortable residential options for researchers, with significantly lower housing costs than central Tokyo while maintaining excellent transportation links. The neighborhood includes parks, shopping facilities, restaurants, and all necessary amenities for comfortable daily life. Many researchers choose to live within cycling distance of campus. CBS facilities include state-of-the-art laboratory spaces, specialized equipment suites for imaging, electrophysiology, and behavioral analysis, animal facilities meeting highest standards for research and welfare, and computational resources supporting data-intensive research. The center continues to invest in advanced technologies enabling cutting-edge neuroscience investigations. Japan's broader infrastructure excellence including efficient public transportation, high-quality healthcare, and exceptional public safety creates a comfortable living environment. The country's unique blend of traditional culture and technological innovation provides fascinating contrasts to explore during leisure time.

Costs & Career Outcomes

Financial support for graduate students at RIKEN CBS enables focused research without excessive financial concerns. JRA and IPA positions provide monthly stipends around 200,000 yen, sufficient for comfortable living in the Wako area. Tuition at partner universities may be partially or fully waived through separate arrangements. Postdoctoral salaries at RIKEN are competitive by Japanese standards, typically ranging from 4-6 million yen annually depending on experience. Benefits include comprehensive health insurance, commuting allowances, and access to campus amenities. Research expenses including materials, equipment, and conference travel come from laboratory budgets. Career outcomes from CBS research training reflect the center's prestigious reputation and excellent training quality. Alumni hold faculty positions at major universities worldwide, lead research groups at neuroscience institutes, work in pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, and pursue diverse careers leveraging neuroscience expertise. CBS actively supports career development through mentoring, industry exposure opportunities, entrepreneurship training, and networking events. The center's extensive alumni network provides ongoing connections and support. RIKEN's technology transfer capabilities assist researchers interested in commercial applications of their discoveries.