Research Intern - Data Systems

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 Data Systems group at Microsoft Research works on problems in data management in the era of cloud computing and artificial intelligence. We work on large-scale cloud data platforms including aspects such as resource management, storage, hardware-accelerated query processing, query optimization, and auto-tuning. Another area of interest is discovery and curation of data in the context of data lakes. We are also exploring how to enable users and AI agents to interact with data systems safely and efficiently.

Our research innovations have been incorporated into Microsoft products and services including SQL Server, Azure SQL Database, Azure Cosmos DB, Microsoft Fabric, Dynamics 365, Microsoft Excel, and Power Query. Our research has also led to open-source software.

Our work has also had significant impact on academia. We publish at top venues including SIGMOD, VLDB, CIDR, OSDI, and NeurIPS. Our research has received multiple best-paper, influential-paper, and test-of-time awards, including Best Paper and Best Paper Honorable Mention at VLDB 2026 and Best Industry Paper at SIGMOD 2026.

As a Research Intern, you will collaborate closely with researchers and engineers to advance the state-of-the-art in data systems. Research Internship projects emphasize research innovation with the potential for real-world impact.

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.

Required Qualifications

• Accepted or currently enrolled in a PhD program in Computer Science 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

• Familiarity with data systems internals.
• Proficient in application of AI/Machine Learning technologies to data management problems.

The base pay range for this internship is USD $6,810 - $13,480 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 $8,920 - $14,610 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

Microsoft accepts applications and processes offers for these roles on an ongoing basis throughout the academic calendar (September - April).

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.