What are the responsibilities and job description for the Database and Web Interface Intern (for High Performance Computing and Machine Learning benchmarks) position at Simons Foundation?
The Scientific Computing Core (SCC) manages supercomputing resources and provides high performance computing (HPC) expertise to all centers at the Flatiron Institute, developing tools broadly useful to the scientific community as a whole.
SCC is seeking an intern who can provide continuous benchmarking of cluster resources.
Benchmarking is an important part of SCC’s activities, as it not only helps in choosing new hardware and software, but also in assisting scientific users when they run on the local compute resources. It is also a good way to detect performance issues when nodes and software go into production, as well as comparing different generations of hardware.
In the past, we have run these tests manually, but would like to build upon the work of previous internships to automatically detect issues on the cluster, and notify the team when such issues arise.
The candidate needs to have a strong experience in Python scripting, and a basic knowledge of NoSQL databases.
The internship will take place in-person at the Simons Foundation’s offices in New York City from June 1, 2026 – August 14, 2026.
Applicable travel assistance to New York City and a supported temporary housing option while in New York City may be available.
Visit the Summer at Simons page to learn more.
Essential Functions/Responsibilities
Education
Many of the greatest ideas and discoveries come from a diverse mix of minds, backgrounds, and experiences. The Simons Foundation is committed to advancing basic science and mathematics to benefit humankind and expand our collective understanding of our world. As part of our mission, we support partners, programs, and initiatives that seek to broaden the scientific community and open pathways to science and mathematics careers.
The Simons Foundation provides equal opportunities to all applicants without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, pregnancy, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic disposition, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status, or any other protected category under federal, state, and local law.
SCC is seeking an intern who can provide continuous benchmarking of cluster resources.
Benchmarking is an important part of SCC’s activities, as it not only helps in choosing new hardware and software, but also in assisting scientific users when they run on the local compute resources. It is also a good way to detect performance issues when nodes and software go into production, as well as comparing different generations of hardware.
In the past, we have run these tests manually, but would like to build upon the work of previous internships to automatically detect issues on the cluster, and notify the team when such issues arise.
The candidate needs to have a strong experience in Python scripting, and a basic knowledge of NoSQL databases.
The internship will take place in-person at the Simons Foundation’s offices in New York City from June 1, 2026 – August 14, 2026.
Applicable travel assistance to New York City and a supported temporary housing option while in New York City may be available.
Visit the Summer at Simons page to learn more.
Essential Functions/Responsibilities
- Create the database and its API to add/update/query entries
- Create a web interface to access it
- Perform any other duties or tasks as assigned or required
Education
- Currently enrolled B.S. or M.S. in computer science, engineering or related technical discipline.
- Experience with Unix (Linux or equivalent)
- Experience with scripting languages like Python
- Databases: NoSQL
- Web development experience
- Must enjoy working in a vigorous research-driven environment
- Desire to document code and process, deliberative decision-making.
- Strong oral and written communication
- Excellent collaborative and interpersonal skills
- Resume or CV
- Cover letter indicating your interest in the position
- Applications for summer 2026 must be submitted by February 6, 2026
- This internship pays $20, $25 or $28 per hour, depending on degree level
Many of the greatest ideas and discoveries come from a diverse mix of minds, backgrounds, and experiences. The Simons Foundation is committed to advancing basic science and mathematics to benefit humankind and expand our collective understanding of our world. As part of our mission, we support partners, programs, and initiatives that seek to broaden the scientific community and open pathways to science and mathematics careers.
The Simons Foundation provides equal opportunities to all applicants without regard to race, religion, color, age, sex, pregnancy, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic disposition, neurodiversity, disability, veteran status, or any other protected category under federal, state, and local law.
Salary : $20 - $28