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Applied Scientist PhD Intern

Microsoft· Applied Sciences
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Redmond, WA, Mountain View, CA$6.8k/mo - $13.5k/mointernshipPosted 4mo ago

About the role

PhD internship in Microsoft AI focusing on applied machine learning research across search, personalization, NLP, computer vision, and recommendation systems, with production-ready data pipelines and Azure/cloud tech.

Responsibilities

  • Analyze and improve advanced machine learning algorithms and systems at scale, optimizing performance across large, complex datasets.
  • Translate product scenarios and user needs into applied ML problems; design and execute experiments to validate, iterate, and optimize solutions.
  • Develop and scale models for search, ranking, recommendations, retrieval, and language understanding using modern AI techniques (e.g., deep learning, reinforcement learning, probabilistic methods).
  • Prepare, clean, and curate high-quality datasets—identifying data quality issues, defining inclusion criteria, and enabling robust feature development.
  • Build and enhance data and ML pipelines (data collection, preparation, modeling), applying statistical methods to validate assumptions and evaluate model performance.
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with scientists, engineers, and product stakeholders to iterate on ideas and deliver real-world, product-integrated solutions.
  • Communicate technical insights and experimental results clearly, while continuously incorporating emerging research, tools, and industry trends to improve solution quality and efficiency.

Qualifications

  • Currently pursuing a Doctorate Degree in Statistics, Econometrics, Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Electrical or Computer Engineering, or related field.
  • Must have at least one additional quarter/semester of school remaining following the completion of the internship.
  • Candidate must be enrolled in a full time PhD program in area relevant for the role during the academic term immediately before their internship.

Skills

Required:Machine LearningData Preparation & PipelinesExperimentation & EvaluationCollaboration & Communication

Benefits

  • Base pay USD 6,810.00 - USD 13,480.00 per month; location-based adjustment USD 8,920.00 - USD 14,610.00 per month for San Francisco Bay Area and NYC.
  • Certain roles may be eligible for benefits and other compensation.
Last updated Oct 9, 2026. Interested? Apply on the company site.

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