Research Intern - Large AI Models for Digital Fabrication

Overview

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.

Microsoft Research is exploring how large AI models (LLMs and other foundation models) can transform the end-to-end fabrication pipeline-from design authoring to machine execution. We invite curious graduate students to help prototype the future of CAD/CAM with AI, spanning additive and subtractive processes. Examples of such AI-assisted processes could be:

1. Connected, jointed objects that 3D-print as assembled parts
   • Generate, analyze, and validate joint geometries, clearances, and tolerances so objects print connected but functional out of the build.
   • Explore text-to-parametric design (LLM-based CAD), constraint satisfaction, and geometry processing for hinges, snap-fits, lattices, and compliant mechanisms.
2. LLM-assisted toolpath optimization (CNC, 3D printers, lasers, etc.)
   • Use LLMs and multi-modal models to suggest, critique, or search over toolpaths with goals like speed, surface finish, stability, thermal control, and energy use.
   • Combine planning with physics-aware simulation and learned heuristics; integrate with slicers, CAM, and firmware (e.g., G-code/Marlin/GRBL).

Open topics encouraged: AI-native CAM, generative fixturing, multi-material/AM-to-CNC hybrid workflows, real-time anomaly detection and recovery, self-calibration, design-for-manufacture critiques, provenance and safety in fab pipelines, and more.

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.

Additional Responsibilities

• Formulate research questions; build and evaluate working prototypes with real machines and realistic constraints.
• Combine LLMs/foundation models with computational geometry, optimization, and control/simulation for fabrication tasks.
• Run controlled experiments (bench/rigs or simulated) and quantify improvements (cycle time, defects, dimensional accuracy, energy, surface metrics).
• Collaborate with MSR researchers and engineers; document and share artifacts (code/data), co-author papers, and explore tech transfer to product groups.
• Practice research ethics and safe engineering, especially around data, security, and operator safety.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a master's or PhD degree in a relevant field (CS, Robotics, HCI, Mechanical/Manufacturing/Industrial Engineering, Applied Math, etc.)

Other Requirements

• 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.

Preferred Qualifications

• Hands-on experience with LLMs or large AI models (prompting, finetuning, tool-use/agents, or evaluation).
• Proficient programming skills (Python, plus familiarity with PyTorch/TensorFlow/JAX).
• Demonstrated ability to run experiments and analyze results with clarity and rigor.
• Experience with CAD/CAM tools (e.g., Fusion 360, SolidWorks, FreeCAD), slicers (e.g., Cura/PrusaSlicer), and CNC/3D-printing toolchains (G-code, Marlin/GRBL, Klipper, Mastercam).
• Background in computational geometry (e.g., CGAL), optimization (ILP/convex/heuristic search), or controls/simulation (finite-element/thermal or kinematic models).
• Familiarity with robotics (ROS2), firmware, or machine kinematics; comfort debugging real hardware.
• Publications or open-source contributions in AI, design, HCI, graphics, robotics, or manufacturing.

Applied Sciences IC2 - The base pay range for this internship is USD $5,610 - $11,010 per month.

There is a different range applicable to specific work locations, within the San Francisco Bay area and New York City metropolitan area, and the base pay range for this role in those locations is USD $7,270 - $12,030 per month.

Applied Sciences IC3 - The base pay range for this internship is USD $6,710 - $13,270 per month.

Certain roles may be eligible for benefits and other compensation. Find additional benefits and pay information here:

Benefits/perks listed below may vary depending on the nature of your employment with Microsoft and the country where you work.

This position will be open for a minimum of 5 days, with applications accepted on an ongoing basis until the position is filled.

Microsoft is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, citizenship, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, immigration status, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran or military status, race, ethnicity, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable local laws, regulations and ordinances. If you need assistance with religious accommodations and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application process, read more about requesting accommodations.