Center for Cancer Immunotherapy and Immunobiology

Studying at CCII
While primarily a research institute, CCII hosts graduate students affiliated with the Kyoto University school of medicine as well as other departments and universities, and scientists at the center are supervising research projects of master and PhD students. Funding for PhD students at CCII is available from various external sources and through CCII’s internal PhD scholarship program.


Studying at CCII is exciting because…

“Studying here is truly special, as it combines an exceptional reputation for excellence with state-of-the-art resources and facilities. The supportive and collaborative environment, alongside renowned faculty and colleagues, fosters personal and professional growth. With diverse opportunities and a commitment to making a positive impact, it’s a place where you can truly thrive and contribute to meaningful breakthroughs.” (Melike Demir, 3rd year doctoral course, Division of Integrated High-Order Regulatory Systems)

“CCII has the advantage of providing us with the opportunities to communicate with people who have various background. In my lab, we have discussions with researchers from different backgrounds such as medicine, pharmaceutical sciences, which I think is precious particularly in Japan. I am fully enjoying my school and research life in CCII.” (Ryoma Kato, Student, Division of Integrated High-Order Regulatory Systems)

“The most exciting reason we work here in CCII at Kyoto uni. is that we sometimes can be a witness of the historic breakthrough in science. Literary, we are genuinely the first person who found a new molecule or new phenomena in the world. It is so exciting, isn’t it? What makes it special to work/ study here?   We are always seeking new things, not repeating somebody’s work, so it is always very tough and challenging for us to keep generating our own new ideas. However, in other words, we are creating a new era with new findings, which means that we are creating a history through science. And I know that we cannot find such a place like here in any other part of the world.” (Kana Yamasaki, PhD Student, epartment of Immunology and Genomic Medicine) 

”The most exciting and fun part is that we work in a team, having members from diverse backgrounds and skills. One gets to know how different brains think about the same situation – so one gets a holistic understanding of a topic! My goal is to be 100% myself, everyday whatever I do!” (Surabhi Raman, PhD Student)

“It is exciting to study here, because I can work with Honjo-sensei. This makes it very special. My most exciting project is about the molecular biological part of immunology. My dream is to become a good scientist and to continue to work with Honjo-sensei.” (Yu Wang, Ph.D. Student, Department of Immunology and Genomic Medicine)

“Cancer is an intricate and challenging disease, causing significant physiological pain and posing a high risk of mortality for patients. However, the advent of immunotherapy has revolutionized cancer treatment, saving countless lives. The opportunity to study in Dr. Honjo’s lab offers a unique and exceptional chance to delve into the field of cancer immunotherapy and gain a deeper understanding. In this collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment, we strive to enhance treatment methods and expand their application to a wider range of cancer types.” (Rong Ma, PhD Student, Department of Immunology and Genomic Medicine)

“The opportunity to be mentored by the best researchers in cancer immunology, both clinical and basic research, makes it special to study here.” (Mari Yokoi, PhD Student, Division of Clinical Immunology and Cancer Immunotherapy)

“I study at CCII because I’m interested in immune metabolism.” (Koji Kitaoka, PhD Student, Department of Immunology and Genomic Medicine)

“My goal is to find a cure for cancer. I believe that harnessing our immune cells will prevent us from getting cancer and many other diseases. Lucky me, Honjo sensei accepted me as a student in this lab. I was “0” when I began my journey as a researcher in this lab, but thanks to extensive training and the incredible support from my supervisors and other members, I have developed skills and knowledge to pursue my goal.” (Aprilla Maharani, PhD Student, Department of Immunology and Genomic Medicine)

Open Positions

We are permanently recruiting highly motivated students and postdoctoral fellows.

Please contact us using CCII’s contact form or by directly sending an email to recruit_ccii@mail2.adm.kyoto-u.ac.jp. Please indicate in which position, subject area, and research division you are interested in.

PhD Scholarships

One of the CCII’s missions is to support early career researchers in the fields of cancer immunology and immunotherapy, and provide them with both financial support and a stimulating environment. Financial aid to assist promising graduate students who want to come to CCII is available through CCII’s “PhD Scholarship Program”. 

Requirements:

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