If you are a PhD student working on machine learning or statistics, a summer at Microsoft Research could be a major step in your career. Microsoft is recruiting Research Interns in Machine Learning and Statistics for a paid 12-week internship at its research labs in Cambridge, Massachusetts and Redmond, Washington. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so it pays to apply early.
Internship at a Glance
- Employer: Microsoft Research
- Role: Research Intern – Machine Learning and Statistics
- Locations: Cambridge, MA and Redmond, WA (USA)
- Duration: 12 weeks, usually starting in summer
- Who can apply: Current PhD students in computer science or a related STEM field
- Pay: Paid internship (see Benefits)
- Deadline: Rolling. Applications are accepted until the position is filled.
What Research Interns Do
Microsoft Research internships are designed to put research ideas into practice. As an intern, you will:
- Work on a research project in machine learning and statistics, guided by experienced mentors
- Collaborate with other research interns and full-time researchers
- Present your findings to the research community
- Take part in the wider life of the lab, including talks, events and networking
Many interns turn their internship work into published papers, and the connections they make often lead to future collaborations or job offers.
Benefits
- Competitive pay: Third-party listings report a base salary of roughly US$6,810–$13,480 per month, with higher ranges for some roles in the San Francisco Bay Area and New York City. Check the official Microsoft posting and its intern pay information for the confirmed figures.
- Mentorship: Work alongside some of the world’s leading researchers in machine learning
- Research output: A chance to produce publishable work during your internship
- Network: Connect with fellow PhD interns from top universities around the world
- Career boost: Microsoft Research experience is highly valued in both academia and industry
Eligibility
Required:
- Currently enrolled in a PhD programme in computer science or a related STEM field (such as statistics, mathematics or electrical engineering)
Preferred:
- A proven ability to develop original research agendas
- Ability to collaborate with other researchers and product teams
- Strong interpersonal skills, including working across groups and cultures
Note for international students: The internship is based at Microsoft’s US offices. If you study outside the US, check that you can obtain the necessary US work authorisation before applying.
Required Documents
- Your CV or résumé
- A cover letter
- Any relevant research or work samples, such as papers or code
- At least two reference letters
Reference letters are requested after you submit your application. Microsoft may email your referees on your behalf, though not every candidate’s referees are contacted. Let your referees know in advance so they are ready to respond quickly.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Apply early. Because applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, places can fill before the listing closes.
- Tailor your cover letter. Explain your research interests, how they connect to machine learning and statistics, and what you hope to work on.
- Showcase your best work. Include links to papers, preprints or code repositories that show your research ability.
- Brief your referees. Give them your CV and a summary of your research so they can write specific, strong letters.
How to Apply
- Open the official job posting on the Microsoft Careers website.
- Create an account or sign in, and upload your CV, cover letter and research samples.
- Enter your referees’ contact details.
- Submit your application as soon as possible.
Apply for the Microsoft Research Intern – Machine Learning and Statistics role
