Machine Learning Research Intern

Job Description

About Netflix

Netflix is a global entertainment powerhouse with over 278 million paid memberships across 190 countries. They offer a vast library of TV series, films, and games across various genres and languages. Users enjoy the flexibility of playing, pausing, and resuming content anytime, anywhere, and can easily adjust their subscription plans.

The Role: Machine Learning Research Intern

Netflix is committed to revolutionizing entertainment, from production to delivery, and constantly improving the personalized experience for their members. Applied Machine Learning Research at Netflix plays a crucial role in achieving this goal by driving improvements across various aspects of the business, including:

• Personalization Algorithms: Developing and refining algorithms that tailor content recommendations to individual user preferences.
• Search: Enhancing the search functionality to provide users with more relevant and efficient search results.
• Systems Optimization: Optimizing internal systems for better efficiency and performance.
• Content Valuation: Analyzing and predicting the value and appeal of different content for various audiences.
• Tooling for Artists: Providing tools and resources to empower artists and creators.
• Streaming Video Optimization: Improving the quality, efficiency, and reliability of streaming video delivery.

Netflix’s research spans a wide range of Machine Learning disciplines, including:

• Recommender Systems: Developing innovative recommender systems utilizing transformers, multi-modal techniques, and conversational interfaces.
• Causal Inference: Understanding the causal relationships between different factors affecting user behavior and content performance.
• Reinforcement Learning: Leveraging reinforcement learning for personalized recommendations and content discovery.
• Computer Vision: Applying image and video processing and generation techniques for content analysis, enhancement, and creation.
• Computer Graphics: Exploring the potential of computer graphics to improve the visual experience of content.
• Image and Video Processing: Utilizing advanced techniques for processing and manipulating images and videos.
• Natural Language Processing: Developing and applying Large Language Models (LLMs) for text generation, translation, and understanding.
• Optimization: Employing optimization techniques to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of various systems and processes.
• Operations Research: Leveraging operations research principles for resource allocation, scheduling, and decision-making.
• Systems: Designing and building robust and scalable Machine Learning infrastructure to support research and development efforts.

Ideal Candidate Profile

Netflix is seeking highly motivated and talented individuals with the following qualifications:

Must have:

• Academic Background: Currently enrolled in a PhD or MS program in Machine Learning or a PhD graduate seeking a postdoctoral research position.
• Machine Learning Experience: Experience in at least one of the following ML areas:
• Personalization & Recommender Systems: Working with transformers for recommenders, multi-modal recommenders, and conversational recommenders.
• Natural Language Processing (NLP): Experience with Large Language Models (LLMs), fine-tuning, in-context learning, text generation, and embedding techniques.
• Computer Vision (CV): Knowledge of image and video processing and generation techniques.
• Reinforcement Learning (RL): Experience with preference-based learning and reinforcement learning from human feedback.
• Multimodal Data: Experience handling and integrating various data types, such as text, images, and videos.
• Model Optimization and Efficiency: Experience with techniques for optimizing model inference efficiency, benchmarking models, and implementing optimization strategies.
• Programming Skills: Proficiency in at least one programming language (e.g., Python or C/C++).
• ML Framework Experience: Experience developing ML models using common frameworks (e.g., PyTorch, TensorFlow, Keras) and training models on GPUs.
• Passion for Problem-Solving: A genuine curiosity, self-motivation, and a passion for tackling complex challenges.
• Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.

Nice to have:

• Publications: Published research in relevant topics at top conferences or journals.
• Distributed Computing: Experience working with distributed computing environments like Spark or Presto.
• Software Engineering Best Practices: Familiarity with best practices in software development, such as version control, testing, and code reviews.

Application Process

To apply, submit your application on the Netflix Careers site. You will receive an Airtable form within 1-5 business days. Completing and submitting this form is crucial for your application to be considered complete.

Requirements:

• Resume or CV: Include your complete contact information (email, phone, mailing address), and list your relevant coursework and publications (if applicable).
• ML Area Selection: In the Airtable form, select *one• ML area for your potential internship. This helps Netflix match your application to relevant teams and projects.
• Research Statement: Write a short (max one page) statement describing your research experiences and interests, including (optionally) their relevance to Netflix Research.

The Netflix Internship Experience

Netflix provides a highly personalized internship experience. Interns are matched with projects and groups based on their skills and interests, and fully integrated into those teams for the summer.

Key Features:

• Paid Internship: Internships are paid and typically last for 12 weeks, with flexible start dates in September or October.
• Location: Internships are typically located in either the Los Gatos, CA office or the Los Angeles, CA office, depending on the team.
• Culture: Netflix fosters a unique and values-driven work environment.
• Compensation: Compensation is competitive and determined by a range of factors, including internship team, degree, and years of education. The overall market range for Netflix Internships is typically $40/hour – $110/hour.

Apply Now and Shape the Future of Entertainment!

Join Netflix and contribute to the future of entertainment! Apply now and be a part of a dynamic and innovative team.

Application Deadline: August 4th, 2024

Note: This information is based on the provided text. For the most up-to-date details, please visit the official Netflix Careers site.