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Research Scientist Intern, Mathematics (PhD)
MetaUnited StatesinternshipVerifiedPosted 19 Feb 2026
About the role
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.
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.
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 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
Our internships are twelve (12) to sixteen (16), or twenty-four (24) weeks long and we have various start dates throughout the year.
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.
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 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
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