Meta is seeking a Research Scientist Intern to advance AI-driven scientific research. We believe that a rigorous, proof-based mathematical approach is key to formulating problems in ways that unlock AI's full potential. We're looking for candidates with strong formal reasoning skills and curiosity across a broad range of scientific domains. Our internships are twelve (12) to sixteen (16), or twenty-four (24) weeks long and we have various start dates throughout the year.

Research Scientist Intern, Mathematics (PhD) Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with researchers and cross-functional partners including communicating research plans, progress, and results.
• Publish research results and contribute to research that can be applied to Meta product development.
• Develop next generation AR/VR displays with an emphasis on advanced simulations and prototyping to prove new concepts and understand the perceptual impact of those concepts.
• Collaborate with larger Meta Reality Labs Research team to explore novel solution space for AR/VR devices.
• Explore the application of at least one of the following: geometrical optics, diffraction optics, polarization optics, illumination, optical system design.
• This position will have an emphasis of advanced simulations and prototyping to prove new concepts and the perceptual impact of those concepts.
  
  

Minimum Qualifications:

• Currently has or is in the process of obtaining a PhD degree in Mathematics, Theoretical Physics, or related field
• Strong foundation in mathematical reasoning and proof-based methodologies
• Self-motivated with a strong sense of ownership over research direction
• Experience thriving in fast-paced, exploratory research environments
• Must obtain work authorization in the country of employment at the time of hire and maintain ongoing work authorization during employment
• 2+ years experience with scientific programming languages (e.g., MATLAB, Python, and Mathematica)
• Intent to return to a degree-program after the completion of the internship/co-op
  
  

Preferred Qualifications:

• Proven track record of achieving significant results as demonstrated by grants, projects, fellowships, patents, as well as first-authored publications in top tier journals
• Skilled in problem-solving with consideration of trade-offs and diverse perspectives
• Experience communicating research to public or peer audiences
• Experience working and communicating cross functionally in a team environment
• Demonstrated ability to integrate AI tools to optimize/redesign workflows and drive measurable impact (e.g., efficiency gains, quality improvements)
• Experience adhering to and implementing responsible, ethical AI practices (e.g., risk assessment, bias mitigation, quality and accuracy reviews)
• Demonstrated ongoing AI skill development (e.g., prompt/context engineering, agent orchestration) and staying current with emerging AI technologies
  
  

About Meta:

Meta builds technologies that help people connect, find communities, and grow businesses. When Facebook launched in 2004, it changed the way people connect. Apps like Messenger, Instagram and WhatsApp further empowered billions around the world. Now, Meta is moving beyond 2D screens toward immersive experiences like augmented and virtual reality to help build the next evolution in social technology. People who choose to build their careers by building with us at Meta help shape a future that will take us beyond what digital connection makes possible today—beyond the constraints of screens, the limits of distance, and even the rules of physics.

Meta is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, sexual stereotypes, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state and local law. Meta participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations, as required by law. Please note that Meta may leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies in connection with applications for employment.

Meta is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities in our recruiting process. If you need any assistance or accommodations due to a disability, please let us know at [email protected].

$7,313/month to $12,134/month + benefits

Individual compensation is determined by skills, qualifications, experience, and location. Compensation details listed in this posting reflect the base hourly rate, monthly rate, or annual salary only, and do not include bonus, equity or sales incentives, if applicable. In addition to base compensation, Meta offers benefits. Learn more about benefits at Meta.