Japanese Version

UTEC (The University of Tokyo Edge Capital Partners Co., Ltd.) has, since its establishment in 2004, collaborated extensively with universities and research institutions in Japan and around the world, including the University of Tokyo. Grounded in science and technology, we bring together capital, talent, and knowledge to create new industries that address global challenges through venture capital investment.

To date, UTEC has managed six flagship venture capital funds with cumulative assets of approximately JPY 130 billion, and has invested in more than 150 science and technology startups. Of these, 20 companies have gone public and 22 have achieved meaningful exits including M&A. Representative success stories include companies UTEC has supported from their seed and early stages.

PeptiDream, Inc.
A drug discovery platform company that leverages fundamental technologies developed by Professor Hiroaki Suga of the University of Tokyo, focused on the translation, synthesis, modification, and screening of peptides. We have supported this company since its foundation. It was listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE) Mothers in June 2013 and then advanced to the TSE First Section in December 2015.

Finatext Holdings, Inc.
A provider of fintech solutions to the financial sector and other industries, leveraging advanced digital technology and data analysis capabilities. UTEC began its support for the company during its Series A round in 2015. Subsequently, the company was listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE) Mothers in December 2021.

Microwave Chemical Co., Ltd
The company specializes in manufacturing and selling products that capitalize on microwave chemical processes. It was co-founded by Iwao Yoshino, previously with Mitsui & Co., and Mr. Tsukahara, who employed the research findings of Associate Professor Yasunori Tsukahara from Osaka University. UTEC has been an ardent supporter of the company from its early stages, participating in every financial round up to Series C. The company made its debut on the TSE Growth Market in June 2022.

OriCiro Genomics, Inc.
Founded in December 2018 to commercialize a cell-free DNA synthesis technology developed by Professor Masayuki Suetsugu of Rikkyo University. UTEC recognized the potential of this breakthrough innovation early and led the company-building and commercialization process, including team formation. In February 2023, the company entered into an acquisition agreement with Moderna, Inc., a pioneer in mRNA vaccine development.

This year, UTEC established its sixth fund and is accelerating new investments.
More details here: UTEC Establishes “UTEC No.6 Investment L.P.,” One of Japan’s Largest Science and Technology VC Funds.

We are now seeking participants for our student internship program. We welcome applications from individuals who are passionate about incubating science and technology startups and are eager to take on transformative challenges with us.

◆ Participant Testimonials
Reference (Japanese): interview article on “note”

◆ Program Overview
In this intensive two-week program, participants will receive lectures from UTEC’s venture capitalists and engage in On-the-Job Training (OJT). This includes exploring advanced science and technology that could serve as potential investment opportunities, conducting market and industry analysis, shortlisting potential investment targets, and supporting existing portfolio companies. Participants will also work on an investment proposal project.

Through this internship, participants will gain a comprehensive understanding of the venture capitalist’s role, which spans strategic, scientific/technical, financial, legal, and intellectual property perspectives.

◆Outline of Application
・Program Period
Two weeks from early March 2026

・Entry Qualifications
Applicants must be enrolled in a four-year university (Bachelor’s) or graduate program (Master’s/Ph.D.), either in Japan or abroad, at the time of application. We welcome applicants who are internationally minded, ambitious, and committed to engaging across both the sciences and liberal arts. Academic year, major, and nationality do not matter.

・Screening Process
Applicants who pass the resume screening will be invited to an online interview with our venture capitalists.
Please ensure your availability until Tuesday, January 20, when the results of the resume screening will be announced. Interview slots will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis, with sufficient capacity arranged depending on the number of applicants.

Interview Schedule:
Friday, February 6, 2026 — 12:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.
Tuesday, February 10, 2026 — 12:00 p.m.–6:00 p.m.

・Preferred Skills
Research skills for analyzing cutting-edge industry and technology trends in fields such as biotechnology, engineering, chemistry, IT, and related areas.
Examples include:
 - Literature-based technology analysis using databases such as Web of Science and PubMed
 - Research on alliances, licensing, development pipelines, regulatory trends, and market size using market reports and aggregators

・Application Deadline
Tuesday, January 6, 2026 (Japan Time)

・Compensation
1,500 yen per hour
Transportation and other necessary expenses will be covered

Applicants living far from Tokyo may participate online. However, for certain key dates—such as the kickoff and the final presentation—we ask participants residing in Japan to attend onsite whenever possible.
UTEC will support travel and accommodation costs associated with these required events (with prior consultation).
Please note that we cannot provide accommodation support for the entire internship period for participants residing far from Tokyo.

・Work Location
Tokyo office: either ① or ②
① 3F, South Research Building, University of Tokyo, 7-3-1 Hongo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo
② Azabudai Hills Garden Plaza B 5F, 5-9-1 Toranomon, Minato-ku, Tokyo
*Depending on project assignments, work at portfolio or potential investment sites may be required (negotiable).

◆Internship Program Information Session
We will be holding Information sessions for those considering applying. We encourage your participation.
(The session content will be the same on both days. Please note that the sessions will be conducted in Japanese.)

Session 1: Tuesday, December 9, 2025 — 12:15 p.m.–1:00 p.m.
Session 2: Thursday, December 18, 2025 — 6:45 p.m.–7:30 p.m.

Please apply through the briefing session application form.

◆How to apply
Please complete the required information through the application form.
Based on your submission, UTEC will conduct the internal screening process and notify applicants of the resume screening results on Tuesday, January 20, 2026.