Research Intern - Genomics

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. This position is for a Research Internship - Genomics with the Microsoft Health Futures group at Microsoft Research in Redmond (USA). Health Futures is responsible for research, incubation, product engineering and strategic partnerships that drive cross-company strategy, as well as value creation in the health and life sciences. We are an interdisciplinary team of researchers, scientists, engineers, biotechnologists, designers, social scientists, strategists, healthcare experts and medical professionals who endeavor to develop next-generation methods and tools for health and healthcare. We offer a unique vibrant environment that features cutting-edge academic research, enterprise software development, and real-world delivery, with close feedback loops and rapid iterations among all three, much like a lean startup. Our mission is to empower every person on the planet to live a healthier future. We are looking for a Research Intern to join the Biomedical Platforms and Genomics team within Health Futures. We are focusing our efforts into 3 main core areas—expanding a genomics research & discovery platform, enabling rapid automation and analysis at scale, and optimizing compliant and secure turnkey solutions. This role will require an interdisciplinary approach and willingness to collaborate widely with projects and stakeholders across Health Futures and the broader Microsoft organization.

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in a PhD program in Computational Biology, Biostatistics, Computer Science, Mathematics or a related field.
• 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.
• Experience working with: Large genomic data and distributed computing.
• Large and Small language models.
• Machine Learning model validation and performance metrics.
• Experience with: Programming in Python and/or R, Cloud computing platforms (e.g., AWS, GCP, or Azure) is a plus.
• Creating benchmark pipelines for various models to evaluate performance, interpretability, and application within genomic datasets.
• RAG and/or GraphRAG techniques to enhance model retrieval and response accuracy for genomics queries.
• Collaborating with interdisciplinary teams.

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.

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