RIKEN Center for Brain Science
- Acceptance Rate
- 65.0%
- SAT Range
- 1050–1250
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.25
- Size
- N/A
- Type
- N/A
- Student:Faculty
- N/A
- Setting
- N/A
- Graduation Rate
- N/A
- Retention Rate
- N/A
- Tuition (In-State)
- N/A
- Tuition (Int'l)
- N/A
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.
Campus Location
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