Research Intern - Interactive Entertainment with Generative AI

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. We are seeking Research Intern candidates who are working at the intersection of gaming, filmmaking, and generative AI. This project will involve working both with human creators and the latest multimodal generative models to innovate new forms of interactive entertainment. We’re looking for highly flexible and creative Research Interns who can help us reimagine what kinds of entertainment scenarios are only now becoming technically possible. Candidates with prior experience in leveraging generative AI models such as GPT, Dall-E, Midjourney, etc., will be preferred. Proficiency in coding languages such as Python and/or JavaScript is required. Additionally, familiarity with filmmaking elements including storyboarding, narrative design, stage directions, visual effects, and related areas would be advantageous. We are also looking for Research Interns who are adept with social media, as we anticipate iterative development based on extensive feedback from a large user base through social media-like platform.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in a PhD Computer Science program or master's-level in filmmaking (or interactive media/storytelling).
• 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.
• Extensive experience with large language models.
• Experience coding in Python and JavaScript.
• Background or strong interest in tech-driven entertainment (game or film).
• Experience working with multimodal models (such as text, code, image, audio, or video generation).
• Experience in film production or game development.
• Experience with social media engagement.

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.
• In collaboration with other researchers and interns in the team, design a prototype of a novel interactive entertainment experience that will address open research questions in this space.
• Write code and contribute to a shared codebase that implements the experience.
• Develop prompting strategies for generative AI multi-modal models based on techniques often used in film making or game development.
• Assist with readying the results of the project for publication.

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