Overview

Research Internships at Microsoft provide a dynamic environment for research careers with a network of world-class research labs led by globally-recognized scientists and engineers, who pursue innovation in a range of scientific and technical disciplines to help solve complex challenges in diverse fields, including computing, healthcare, economics, and the environment.

In M365 Research, we are dedicated to pioneering advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Systems, driving the transfer of innovative technologies into our products, establishing Microsoft’s leadership in technical domains and enhancing community engagement. We closely collaborate with multiple research teams and product groups across the globe who bring a multitude of technical expertise in machine learning, cloud systems and software engineering. We communicate our research both internally and externally through peer-reviewed scientific publications, open-source releases, blog posts, patents, and industry conferences.

For this position, you should have a background in artificial intelligence, machine learning, and natural language processing. Our research focuses on advancing AI agents that can reason, adapt, and act in complex environments. Our topics of interest include adapting large language models (LLMs) to new domains, designing LLM-based agents for workflow automation and advanced tool usage, developing advanced agent memory architectures for long-term reasoning and context retention, exploring multi-agent collaboration and coordination, and enhancing agents’ ability to plan, reflect, and self-improve through feedback.

Responsibilities

Research Interns put inquiry and theory into practice. Alongside fellow doctoral candidates and some of the world’s best researchers, Research Interns learn, collaborate, and network for life. Research Interns not only advance their own careers, but they also contribute to exciting research and development strides. During the 12-week internship, Research Interns are paired with mentors and expected to collaborate with other Research Interns and researchers, present findings, and contribute to the vibrant life of the community. Research internships are available in all areas of research, and are offered year-round, though they typically begin in the summer.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

Currently enrolled or accepted in a PhD program in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related STEM field.
At least 1 year of experience in conducting research and authoring peer-reviewed publications.

Other Requirements

Research Interns are expected to be physically located in their manager’s Microsoft worksite location for the duration of their internship.
In addition to the qualifications below, you’ll need to submit a minimum of two reference letters for this position as well as a cover letter and any relevant work or research samples. After you submit your application, a request for letters may be sent to your list of references on your behalf. Note that reference letters cannot be requested until after you have submitted your application, and furthermore, that they might not be automatically requested for all candidates. You may wish to alert your letter writers in advance, so they will be ready to submit your letter.

Preferred Qualifications

Experience in machine learning, natural language processing, or related AI areas (e.g., LLMs, AI agents, Reasoning).
Hands-on experience with one or more topics: large language model fine-tuning, reinforcement learning, prompt engineering, agent memory architectures, planning and reasoning modules, or multi-agent system design and implementation.
Proficient written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to collaborate effectively in cross-functional, multi-disciplinary teams across research and product groups.
Research contributions demonstrated through publications in top venues such as NeurIPS, ICML, ICLR, ACL, EMNLP, NAACL, AAAI, IJCAI, KDD or related conferences.

The base pay range for this internship is USD $6,710 - $13,270 per month. There is a different range applicable to specific work locations, within the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, and the base pay range for this role in those locations is USD $8,760 - $14,360 per month.

Certain roles may be eligible for benefits and other compensation. Find additional benefits and pay information here: https://careers.microsoft.com/us/en/us-intern-pay

Benefits/perks listed below may vary depending on the nature of your employment with Microsoft and the country where you work.

This position will be open for a minimum of 5 days, with applications accepted on an ongoing basis until the position is filled.

Microsoft is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, immigration status, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran or military status, race, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local laws, regulations and ordinances. If you need assistance with religious accommodations and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application process, read more about requesting accommodations.

Research Intern - AI Agents & Reasoning