Frequently Asked Questions
Why is there a Leadership in Diversity Statement?
Microsoft is dedicated to infusing diversity and inclusion principles into our hiring, our communication, our innovation, and the way we build products and technologies. Excelling as a top researcher requires leadership and collaborating with people across a diverse set of perspectives and experiences. Leadership in diversity and inclusion is in important component to evaluating applications, as it is a core priority of all of Microsoft’s employees.
How does this program differ from the 12-week Microsoft Research PhD internship?
The Undergraduate Research internship at Microsoft is intended for undergraduate students who would like to gain research experience in computing fields at one of the world’s top industrial research labs. The program provides formal training as well as group project experience working alongside others. Participants will specialize in a field of their choice and will be teamed with other researchers.
What are the different tracks?
We offer three different intern tracks:
Research Intern Software Design Engineer (RSDE): For passionate, creative, problem-solving individuals with a strong interest in software design and engineering. The SDE track focuses on designing and developing software solutions that support research initiatives. RSDE interns work closely with research teams to translate ideas into functional software tools and platforms.
Research Intern Program Manager (PM): For passionate, creative, problem-solving individuals with a strong interest in research and program management. The PM track is for those who want the hone their skills in leadership, organizing, planning, and strategy. Research PM interns work closely with research teams and other stakeholders to coordinate projects, ensuring timely execution, and keep teams aligned with broader goals.
Research Intern: For passionate, creative, problem-solving individuals with a strong interest in research. The Research track focuses on exploring new ideas and pushing the boundaries of knowledge in a particular field. Individuals on this track contribute to academic or industry research projects by formulating hypotheses, conducting experiments, and potentially publishing or otherwise presenting their findings. This track is ideal for those who are contemplating pursuing a PhD.
I’ve heard Microsoft internships include an opportunity to interview for a full-time position, is that the case with this intern program?
No. The MSR Undergraduate Research internship does not include an interview.
What can I expect to accomplish during the program?
You will work in a small team to complete a research project through which you will gain exposure to the research development lifecycle. The goal is to publish a paper based on your summer research in either a conference or journal, or for the research to be transferred to one of Microsoft’s product teams.
Will I work with many groups during this experience, or focus on a specific goal in one group?
We want you to become very involved with your research, so we will assign you to a specific lab while you are here. This is the best way to make sure you have the opportunity to make a real contribution and gain valuable experience with the research funnel. However, there will be plenty of opportunities to attend discussions about different Microsoft technologies and to learn from employees and other researchers working at Microsoft Research.
What benefits will I receive during the program?
Microsoft offers benefits designed to make internship experiences the best they can be, and the Undergraduate Research Intern Program at Microsoft is no exception. This program includes competitive pay, possible relocation, training, transportation and more.
Where is Undergraduate Research Intern Program Microsoft offered?
Research Mentors are located in the Redmond, New York, and New England Microsoft Research Labs.