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.

The Applied Sciences Group (ASG) is seeking a highly motivated and talented PhD student to join our team as a Research Intern. This internship offers a unique opportunity to work on cutting-edge research in the fields of Large Language Models (LLMs), Vision-Language Models (VLMs), LLM/VLM based agents, and Generative Image & Video. The successful candidate will collaborate with a team of experienced researchers and engineers to tackle real-world challenges and contribute to the advancement of AI technologies.

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.

Additional Responsibilities

Conduct research in one or more of the following areas: LLMs, VLMs, and Generative Image & Video.
Design and implement experiments to test new hypotheses and validate research findings.
Develop and optimise algorithms and models for various AI applications.
Collaborate with team members to integrate research outcomes into practical solutions.
Present research findings to the team and contribute to publications and patents.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

Enrolled in a full time bachelor's, master's, MBA, or PhD program in area in computer science, computer engineering, electrical engineering, or a related field during the academic term immediately before their internship. 
At least one additional quarter/semester of school remaining following the completion of the internship.

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

First-author publication(s) at top-tier venues or demonstrably comparable research impact
Experience with emerging memory technologies such as CXL based memory
Clear communication, self-motivated, curiosity, and a bias for hands-on experimentation
Interpersonal skills, cross-group, and cross-culture collaboration.
Familiarity with computer systems' architecture, cache and memory hierarchy

Applied Sciences IC2 - The base pay range for this internship is USD $5,610 - $11,010 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 $7,270 - $12,030 per month.

Applied Sciences IC3 - The base pay range for this internship is USD $6,710 - $13,270 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 - Model Optimization and HW Acceleration