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 Office of the Chief Scientific Officer works with senior leadership at Microsoft on strategy and opportunities at the frontiers of science, engineering, and responsible artificial intelligence (AI). The office collaborates closely with teams across Microsoft, including Microsoft Research, divisional research and development (R&D) teams, and policy groups. The office also does outreach and collaboration with research scientists and students outside of Microsoft, spanning academia, industry, and government agencies. Efforts by the office include coordinative projects, reviews, and syntheses as well as new scientific explorations and deep dives on promising research areas.

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.

We are seeking Research Intern applications for spring, summer, or fall of 2026. Areas of interest include, but are not limited to, challenges and opportunities in the areas of artificial intelligence, biology, biomedicine, responsible AI, and influences of AI applications on people and society, including economic and psychosocial influences of AI.

Qualifications Required Qualifications:

• Currently enrolled in an MS or PhD program in CS, HCI, EE, biology, biomedical informatics, economics, psychology, or a related field or similar level programs in ethics, law, or policy-related fields.
• At least 1 year of experience in conducting research and writing peer-reviewed publications.

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

• Demonstrated ability to develop original research agendas.
• Proficient interpersonal skills, cross-group, and cross-culture collaboration.
• History of effective collaborations with researchers and other colleagues.
• Proficiency with qualitative or quantitative empirical social science research methods.
• Demonstrated commitment to responsible AI.
• Passionate about embarking on creative, out-of-the-box, unconventional efforts in pursuit of new results and directions.

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.