Research Intern - AI-driven Hardware Design (Start ASAP)

About Microsoft

Microsoft has built a strong position in the market as the world’s largest software maker. Founded by Bill Gates and Paul Allen in 1975, the corporation is best known for its software products, flagship hardware products, touchscreen lineup, cloud systems, and services.

Your role

As a Research Intern at Microsoft Research, you will be at the forefront of developing and implementing cutting-edge Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven AI infrastructure. This role is ideal for candidates who are passionate about AI software and hardware development. You will collaborate with a team of world-class researchers and engineers in Vancouver, Canada, and Redmond, Washington to create the next generation of AI infrastructure that enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of AI.

Responsibilities:

As a Research Intern for this position, you will:

• Development and Implementation: Design and develop AI-driven AI infrastructure. Implement prototypes and conduct simulations to test and validate them.
• Research and Analysis: Conduct thorough research on emerging trends in AI software and hardware infrastructure.
• Collaboration: Work closely with cross-functional teams, including hardware engineers, software developers, and data scientists, to integrate your ideas with existing and future AI projects.
• Documentation and Reporting: Prepare detailed documentation of simulations, methodologies, and findings. Present results and insights to team members and stakeholders.
• Innovation and Problem-Solving: Identify challenges and bottlenecks in AI infrastructure and propose innovative solutions.

Training & development

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 careers but 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. 

Salary & benefits

The base pay range for this internship is $5,090 - $11,030 per month. If you join as a full-time employee, you will get the following benefits:

• Industry-leading healthcare.
• Educational resources.
• Discounts on products and services.
• Savings and investments.
• Maternity and paternity leave.
• Generous time away.
• Giving programs.
• Opportunities to network and connect.

Career progression

Interns at Microsoft benefit from a structured career progression path, including mentorship, training, and hands-on experience. With many interns transitioning to full-time roles, they contribute to the company's innovation. Microsoft's commitment to talent development enables interns to build rewarding, long-term careers within the organization.

Work-life balance

Microsoft prioritizes flexibility in its hybrid workplace, allowing employees to work in the way that suits them best. With flexible schedules, remote work options, and wellness programs, the company fosters a supportive environment where employees can thrive in their careers while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

Culture & vibe

Microsoft's work culture is grounded in several key elements: quality, innovation, giving, accountability, responsiveness, a positive mindset, and diversity. This structure empowers employees to perform at their best and contribute to making a positive impact globally, helping everyone achieve more.

About you

Required Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled in a bachelor's, master's, or Ph.D. program in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Machine learning, Mathematics, or a related field.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Proficient analytical and problem-solving skills and communication skills, both written and verbal.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a dynamic research environment.
• Proficient understanding of AI and machine learning concepts, especially about hardware infrastructure.
• Experience in simulation modeling and software development (e.g., Python, C++, MATLAB).
• Research expertise with AI hardware components such as GPUs, TPUs, and neuromorphic chips. Hardware RTL development (SystemVerilog, Chisel, Bluespec) is a plus.
• Experience with machine learning frameworks (TensorFlow, PyTorch).
• Deep Knowledge of hardware design and architecture.
• Prior research or project experience in AI or hardware simulation.

How to apply

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 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. 

Sources

The following sources were used in researching this page.

• careers.microsoft.com
• youtube.com