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.
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
- Formulate research questions; build and evaluate working prototypes with real machines and realistic constraints.
- Combine LLMs/foundation models with computational geometry, optimization, and control/simulation for fabrication tasks.
- Run controlled experiments (bench/rigs or simulated) and quantify improvements (cycle time, defects, dimensional accuracy, energy, surface metrics).
- Collaborate with MSR researchers and engineers; document and share artifacts (code/data), co‑author papers, and explore tech transfer to product groups.
- Practice research ethics and safe engineering, especially around data, security, and operator safety.
Qualifications
Required Qualifications
- Currently enrolled in a master's or PhD degree in a relevant field (CS, Robotics, HCI, Mechanical/Manufacturing/Industrial Engineering, Applied Math, etc.).
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
- Hands‑on experience with LLMs or large AI models (prompting, finetuning, tool‑use/agents, or evaluation).
- Proficient programming skills (Python, plus familiarity with PyTorch/TensorFlow/JAX).
- Demonstrated ability to run experiments and analyze results with clarity and rigor.
- Experience with CAD/CAM tools (e.g., Fusion 360, SolidWorks, FreeCAD), slicers (e.g., Cura/PrusaSlicer), and CNC/3D‑printing toolchains (G‑code, Marlin/GRBL, Klipper, Mastercam).
- Background in computational geometry (e.g., CGAL), optimization (ILP/convex/heuristic search), or controls/simulation (finite‑element/thermal or kinematic models).
- Familiarity with robotics (ROS2), firmware, or machine kinematics; comfort debugging real hardware.
- Publications or open‑source contributions in AI, design, HCI, graphics, robotics, or manufacturing.
