Research Intern — Novel Light Source Design
MicrosoftJob Title
Research Intern — Novel Light Source Design
Role Summary
Join the Future AI Infrastructure team at Microsoft Research Cambridge for a 12-week research internship to design and evaluate novel light source concepts for next-generation optical transmitters targeting AI-scale data-centre systems. The role combines simulation, device design and laboratory characterization within a multidisciplinary research environment.
The position is based in Cambridge, UK and involves on-site laboratory work and collaboration with research engineers and scientists.
Experience Level
Internship — intended for enrolled PhD students (research-level, early-career research role).
Responsibilities
Key responsibilities include research, design, simulation, experiments and technical communication.
- Research novel technologies and concepts for light sources.
- Design and simulate integrated and semiconductor photonic light-source devices.
- Perform lab-based experimental characterization and evaluation of photonics devices.
- Document results and present findings in technical reports and presentations.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary team members to integrate findings into broader system research.
Requirements
Must-have technical skills and logistical requirements; preferred skills are listed separately.
- Knowledge of the physics of semiconductor photonic devices.
- Experience with integrated photonics design and simulation workflows.
- Hands-on experience characterizing photonics devices in an optical laboratory.
- Available to be physically located in Cambridge, UK for the internship period (on-site work expected).
Nice-to-have:
- Experience with optical device simulation tools (examples: Ansys Lumerical, RSoft, MEEP, Tidy3D, TCAD).
- Familiarity with free-space optics techniques.
Education Requirements
Enrolled in a PhD program in Photonics, Physics, Electronic Engineering or a closely related technical discipline (PhD enrollment is required for applicants). No alternative degree-equivalent language was specified.
About the Company
Company: Microsoft
Headquarters: Redmond, Washington, United States
Microsoft is a global technology company that develops and sells software, services, devices, and solutions. Known for its Windows operating system, Office suite, and Azure cloud platform, Microsoft aims to empower individuals and organizations around the world to achieve more. The company fosters a culture of innovation and inclusion, focusing on delivering trusted experiences to customers and partners globally.
