Research Intern - Gray Systems Lab

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.

Gray Systems Lab (GSL) is an applied research lab under Azure Data. We do research and development for databases, big-data, and cloud systems and work in close collaboration with product teams to design innovative solutions for real-world problems. Our inclusive and welcoming team currently has focus areas in topics such as query optimization and execution, large and small language models, agents and agentic workflows, machine learning for systems, systems for machine learning, data science, resource management, storage systems, modern/future hardware (e.g. Non-volatile memory (NVM) and field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs)), program analysis, cross system optimization, and data provenance, all centered around both internal and open-source systems such as Spark, Structured Query Language (SQL) Server, MySQL, Hadoop, MLFlow, Open Neural Network Exchange (ONNX), and others. There are opportunities to work on ideas from internal, as well as external, collaborations with partner universities and to continue to be an active scholar in the research community.

The GSL team is looking for Research Interns who are interested in cutting edge research in close collaboration with advanced industry product groups. Past Research Internships have resulted in a combination of impact on production systems and publications at top conferences. Applicants should demonstrate a track record in one or more systems or data science topics and an aptitude for hands-on system building and design methodology to run and analyze experiments at scale.

Microsoft’s mission is to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more. As employees we come together with a growth mindset, innovate to empower others, and collaborate to realize our shared goals. Each day we build on our values of respect, integrity, and accountability to create a culture of inclusion where everyone can thrive at work and beyond. We are open to all individuals and thrive on an inclusive environment and work culture. Neurodivergent individuals are encouraged to apply. 

Required Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a PhD or master's program in Computer Science, Statistics, Mathematics, or related STEM field.

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

• Experience with one of the following PostgreSQL, MySQL, SQL Server, Spark, or other databases or big data systems.
• Experience contributing to research communities and/or efforts, including publishing papers (being listed as author) at academic conferences.
• Experience with one or more general purpose programming languages such as Python, Java, C#, C++.
• Takes initiative, but also follows a research/productization plan and work well as part of a team.
• Proficient critical thinking and communication skills.

Applied Sciences IC2 : USD $5,460 -$10,680 per month. There is a different range applicable to specific work locations, with the San Francisco Bay area and New York City Metropolitan area, and the base pay range for this role in those locations is USD $7,040 -$11,640 per month.

Applied Sciences IC3 : USD $6,550 -$12,880 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 $8,480 - $13, 920 per month.

Certain roles may be eligible for benefits and other compensation. Find additional benefits and pay information here:

Microsoft accepts applications and processes offers for these roles on an ongoing basis.

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.