Research Intern - Maia-100 - AI Kernel Fusion

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.

"Kernel Fusion" is among the most important techniques used to optimize AI workloads. The most successful fused kernels (like Flash Attention) are still discovered manually and not by automatic kernel fusion algorithms - we want to change that! We are seeking a highly motivated Research Intern to conduct cutting-edge research in AI kernel fusion techniques. This Research Internship offers a unique opportunity to work on an innovative project that could significantly improve the computational performance of Microsoft's AI workloads. 

Required Qualifications

• Accepted or currently enrolled in a PhD program in Computer Science or a related field.
• At least 1 year experience with AI kernel fusion techniques and algorithms.

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

• Proficient in C++ and Python.

The base pay range for this internship is 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.

Additional Responsibilities

• Conduct research on kernel fusion techniques to optimize computational performance.
• Develop and implement kernel fusion algorithms for the Maia-100 AI accelerator, GPUs, and other targets.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, and present findings in written and oral formats.