Internship - Training Compact Vision + Language Models

MERL is looking for research interns to conduct research into building and training novel architectures for small (~1 billion parameters) vision language models. Interesting research directions include (a) diffusion and flow matching-based architectures, (b) architectures for improved visual reasoning, and (c) reducing confabulation using information-theoretic principles.

Prior experience with machine learning/computer vision/natural language processing research, and proficiency in building and experimenting with machine learning models using a framework like PyTorch are required. Candidates well into their PhD program with publications in top-tier machine learning, natural language processing or computer vision venues, ideally connected to building generative models, are strongly preferred. Candidates are also expected to collaborate with MERL researchers for preparing manuscripts for scientific publications based on the results obtained during the internship. Duration of the internship is 3 months with a flexible start date.

Required Specific Experience

• Research experience with recent vision and text generative models, demonstrated through publications
• Deep understanding of neural network architectures
• Proficiency in machine learning frameworks like PyTorch

The pay range for this internship position will be 6-8K per month.

Mitsubishi Electric Research Labs, Inc. "MERL" provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, MERL complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

MERL expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of MERL’s employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including discharge.

Working at MERL requires full authorization to work in the U.S and access to technology, software and other information that is subject to governmental access control restrictions, due to export controls. Employment is conditioned on continued full authorization to work in the U.S and the availability of government authorization for the release of these items, which might include without limitation, obtaining an export license or other documentation. MERL may delay commencement of employment, rescind an offer of employment, terminate employment, and/or modify job responsibilities, compensation, benefits, and/or access to MERL facilities and information systems, as MERL deems appropriate, to ensure practical compliance with applicable employment law and government access control restrictions.

In addition to base pay, interns receive a relocation stipend, covered travel to and from MERL, and a monthly Charlie Card for local commuting. Interns are invited to participate in weekly social gatherings and professional development opportunities, including research talks by both internal and external speakers. Interns who meet the 90-day waiting period are also eligible for health insurance coverage. MERL provides immigration support for qualified candidates as needed. Employment is considered “at-will,” and the Company reserves the right to modify base salary or any other compensation program at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, departmental or Company performance, and market conditions.