Microsoft Research is offering the unique opportunity to work in Cambridge, UK for a 12-week (or longer) internship in the development of cutting-edge technologies that will underpin the next generation of cloud infrastructure. The Cloud Infrastructure team is engaged in an ambitious, multidisciplinary research program to improve storage, computation, and networking at cloud scale. Current representative projects combine advanced optical technologies with computer systems and machine learning research.  

In the optical storage field, we are aiming to revolutionise how data is stored in the cloud. Project Silica leverages recent discoveries in ultrafast laser technology to store archival data in quartz glass. Polarised femtosecond lasers are used to write data into glass and optical polarisation microscopes are used for readout. In Project HSD we are developing new approaches to Holographic Optical Storage technology to dramatically speed up read/write operation rates for data storage in the cloud.  

In the optical networking field, we aim to develop disruptive optical technologies for the next generation cloud infrastructure. For example, project Sirius is targeted at asking whether ultra-fast optical switching within the datacentre can enable the continuation of Moore’s law.  

Finally, in the optical compute field, we are investigating super-efficient optical primitives that can be integrated as photonic accelerators into end-to-end systems of specific workloads. 

Problem areas where we are currently applying machine learning include (but are not limited to): supervised deep learning for signal processing, optimization techniques for experimental design, reinforcement learning for system control, with plenty of scope to develop and apply state-of-the-art techniques to uniquely new problems. 

“We are anticipating this will be  a virtual internship and the intern must be physically located in UK at the time of their application and during the duration of their internship”

Responsibilities

During the internship you will work with an interdisciplinary team including computer scientists, optical scientists, industrial designers, electronic engineers, mechanical engineers and machine learning experts.  This provides a unique opportunity to work across disciplines as we seek to research and solve some of the most challenging problems that we are seeing in the cloud today. 

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a PhD in optical communications, electrical engineering, computer science, physics or closely related field 
• Highly motivated attitude and passion to work in a multi-disciplinary environment 
• Fluency in English (verbal and written) 
• Interest in solving real world high-impact problems in new domains using machine learning.  
• Knowledge of deep learning. Problem areas include (but are not limited to): computer vision, signal processing, sequential design, reinforcement learning for system control.  

• Experience with current deep learning frameworks (e.g. PyTorch and Tensorflow) is preferable.  
• Strong software engineering skills for rapid and accurate development.   
• Creative and collaborative approach to problem solving.  

Microsoft is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations and ordinances. If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or the recruiting process, please send a request via the Accommodation request form.