Research Intern - Cryptography and Applications

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.

As a Research Intern in the Strategic Planning and Architecture (SPARC) group, you will contribute to the research, design, and development of cryptos & crypto applications for Caliptra and its usage models. This role encompasses topics such as crypto tradeoffs around silicon gate area, FW-HW interface simplications, performance and integration of it with the rest of the system. Side channel countermeasure implementation, and validation of those would also be part of the responsibility. The role includes collaboration with researchers and engineers across Microsoft and offers the possibility for real system impact.

Applicants should demonstrate depth of knowledge in Cryptography, design & validation of the cryptos in hardware.

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

• Engage early with their mentors to clearly formulate a plan of work for the 12 weeks of the Research Internship.

• Clearly and frequently document and communicate their progress, adjusting the plan as the project evolves.

• Show initiative and think unconventionally to derive creative and innovative solutions.

Qualifications

Required Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in a PhD program in Computer Engineering or a related STEM field.

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

• Background in cryptography with a strong understanding of tradeoff and countermeasures.

• Familiarity with hardware RTL development (Verilog/VHDL), validation and side channel analysis using FPGAs.

• Ability to use AI to develop testbench and tests for validation.

The base pay range for this internship is USD $6,710 - $13,270 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 $8,760 - $14,360 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. (