Research Fellow
Microsoft
Job Overview
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Job Description
Overview
Microsoft Research India invites applications for its Research Fellows Program. This program exposes bright minds in India to world-class research and state-of-the-art technology, preparing students for careers in research, engineering, and entrepreneurship. MSR India boasts some of the best researchers pushing the frontiers of computer science and technology.
Application Procedure
To apply, submit your resume and at least one letter of recommendation. Additionally, you must complete the RF Interest Form at the provided link: RF Candidate Interest Form (2026). This form helps gather your interests to match your application with appropriate projects within MSR. After completing the application process, you will find an option in the Action Center to add recommenders, who will then receive an automated email with a link to upload their recommendation letters. This process collects additional information to facilitate the evaluation and project matching.
Responsibilities
Research Fellows spend one to two years at MSR India, engaging in various projects that demand diverse skill sets. Current Research Fellows contribute to developing core algorithms in Machine Learning, optimization, and cryptography, as well as large-scale retrieval models, reliable reasoning with large language models, and increasing the inclusivity of large language models. They also design and build infrastructure for AI training and inference workloads. Across all endeavors, the consistent aim is to create significant academic, industry, and societal impact.
Qualifications
Candidates should hold a Bachelor’s (BE/BTech/BS) or Master’s degree (ME/MTech/MS) in Computer Science or related fields. Evaluation is based on a combination of academic performance, raw intelligence, development skills, and a strong passion for both research and software development.
This position will remain open for applications on an ongoing basis until filled, with a minimum posting period of five days.
Key skills/competency
- Machine Learning
- Algorithm Development
- Optimization
- Cryptography
- Large Language Models
- Artificial Intelligence
- Software Development
- Research Methodology
- Data Science
- Problem Solving
How to Get Hired at Microsoft
- Research Microsoft's culture: Study their mission, values, recent research publications, and employee testimonials on LinkedIn and Glassdoor to understand their innovation-driven environment.
- Tailor your resume for Research Fellow: Customize your resume to highlight academic achievements, research experience, relevant projects, and specific skills in ML, AI, and algorithm development, aligning with the Research Fellow role at Microsoft.
- Prepare for technical interviews: Sharpen your skills in data structures, algorithms, and problem-solving, focusing on areas like machine learning, optimization, and cryptography relevant to Microsoft Research India's work.
- Showcase your research passion: Be ready to discuss your academic projects, research interests, and contributions to software development, demonstrating your enthusiasm for impactful research during interviews.
- Craft strong recommendations: Ensure your letter of recommendation effectively communicates your technical abilities, research potential, and passion for computer science, directly addressing the Research Fellow requirements.
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