Research Intern - AI Storytelling

Job Description

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 Innovation Strategy team at Microsoft Research is seeking a passionate and innovative Research Intern to help redefine storytelling using cutting-edge AI and other advanced technologies. This role provides the unique opportunity to collaborate with flagship research projects across Microsoft Research, using them as the first customers for novel storytelling solutions. The focus is on building a flexible storytelling framework and set of tools that combine automated and human-driven methods, enabling impactful narratives for diverse audiences. As part of the team, you’ll explore new frontiers in storytelling, applying AI for tasks such as media generation, narrative structuring, content curation, and personalization. You’ll work closely with interdisciplinary teams to refine these techniques, contributing to both practical applications and the broader academic and research community.

Requirements

• Currently pursuing a PhD program in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Digital Media, Human-Computer Interaction, or a related field.
• At least 1 additional quarter or semester of school remaining following the completion of the internship.
• 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.
• Specialization in computational storytelling or computational creativity.
• Hands-on experience with state-of-the-art AI technologies, particularly media generation tools (e.g., generative models for text, images, video, or audio).
• Compelling portfolio or research background in applying AI to creative or narrative-focused projects.

Responsibilities

• 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.
• Design and develop novel tools or frameworks for storytelling that leverage AI and combine automated and human-driven methods.
• Explore latest advances in AI driven storytelling, including media generation, narrative structuring, content curation, and other storytelling-related tasks.
• Collaborate with flagship projects across Microsoft Research and use them as the first customers for innovative storytelling approaches.
• Work closely with interdisciplinary teams, including researchers, engineers, and designers, to iteratively refine storytelling techniques and tools based on user feedback and project outcomes.
• Analyze and evaluate the effectiveness of storytelling solutions, documenting findings and insights to inform future innovations.
• Present research outcomes through internal demonstrations, reports, and potential academic publications, contributing to the advancement of storytelling practices in research and beyond.

Benefits

• Industry leading healthcare
• Educational resources
• Discounts on products and services
• Savings and investments
• Maternity and paternity leave
• Generous time away
• Giving programs
• Opportunities to network and connect