IRES Composite Materials Research Experience in Japan Summer 2026
NSF Award title: IRES: Advancing Sustainable Technology And Recycling for Composite Materials
NSF Award number: 2503801
Overview:
This project aims to provide U.S. students with first-rated research experience in polymeric composite materials through combined training and mentorship at the University of Akron and in world renowned laboratories at the University of Tokyo, Tokyo University of Agricultural and Technology, and Nagoya University. Japan has been at the forefront in composite materials research and development. In recent years, Japan has made significant strides towards carbon neutrality, with strong partnerships between government agencies, key industrial players and top-tier educational institutions.
Objectives:
- To train U.S. students (undergraduate and graduate) in advancing sustainable technology and recycling for composite materials.
- To provide U.S. students with world-class collaborative research experience supplemented with exposure to international work environment in Japan.
- To develop students’ knowledge and skillsets and prepare them for global leadership roles in composite field.
Benefits:
- Learn from the best in the world
- Immerse in a well-structured mentorship program
- Engage in multi-disciplinary research training
- Participating in overseas training to strengthen research experience
- Enjoy Japanese culture, food, and travel
Allowance:
- Student stipends: $4,800 ($600 weekly for 8 weeks in Japan)
- Travel allowance: $3,000 (international air ticket & local domestic travel)
- Housing allowance: $1,000
- Insurance allowance: $700
- Research allowance: $1,000
- Post-trip conference allowance: $1,500
Program Structure:
- 3-weeks pre-trip training (5/11/2026 – 5/29/2026) on Japanese language, culture, research knowledge, technical skillsets, companies and federal labs visits
- 8-weeks in Japan at one of the three Japanese Universities (6/1/2026 – 7/24/2026)
- Post-trip evaluation and professional development
Contact Dr. K.T. Tan (ktan@uakron.edu) with any questions
Eligibility Requirements:
Eligible applicants must be:
- A current undergraduate or graduate student of good standing in science or engineering program at a U.S. Institution of higher education with a minimum GPA of 3.0.
- U.S. citizens, U.S. nationals, or permanent residents of the United States.
- Able to participate in-person pre-trip training (5/11/2026 – 5/29/2026) at The University of Akron (Ohio, U.S.).
- Able to have a valid passport and be able to travel internationally to Japan in June -July 2026.
We prefer that participants:
- Have research experience on materials, mechanics or manufacturing.
- Desire to attend graduate school and pursue research in composite materials.
Documents to submit:
- One-page personal objective statement
- Resume or CV
- Unofficial transcripts
- Recommendation letter from a faculty member
Apply through NSF ETAP website (web link to be announced)
Applications are due on 11 January 2026
Application Window:
Application start: 11/1/2025
Application end: 1/11/2026
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interview
We will be hosting two online information sessions:
- 20 November 2025 (Thursday), 6pm (EST) Join the meeting now
- MS Teams Meeting ID: 234 427 836 024, Passcode: ea34W2pa
- 12 December 2025 (Friday), 4pm (EST) Join the meeting now
- MS Teams Meeting ID: 253 969 353 259 8, Passcode: 66CH6Hq6