PhD Intern, AI Applied Scientist (2027)

What you'll do at Figma

• Drive fundamental and applied research in Generative AI with Figma product use cases in mind
• Formulate and implement new modeling approaches both to improve the effectiveness of Figma's current AI models as well as enable the launch of entirely new AI-powered product features
• Explore the boundaries of what is possible with the current technology set and experiment with novel ideas
• Depending on your project, you may have the opportunity to publish your research in leading AI/ML conferences

We'd love to hear from you if you have

• Are a 4th or 5th year senior Ph.D student in AI, Machine Learning, Computer Vision, Natural Language Processing, Human Computer Interaction or a related field
• Proven expertise in AI through publications on recent advancements in AI, such as Large Language Models or Agentic systems
• Track record in applying machine learning techniques to projects in academia or industry
• Experience in Python and machine learning frameworks (such as PyTorch, TensorFlow)
• Experience solving sophisticated problems and comparing alternative solutions, trade-offs, and diverse points of view to determine a path forward

While it's not required, it's an added plus if you also have

• Related industry experience via a past internship or full-time role
• Experience communicating your solutions effectively to different audiences
• Experience using AI-assisted development tools (e.g., GitHub Copilot, ChatGPT, Claude) to write, debug, and optimize code

Additional information

At Figma, one of our values is Grow as you go. We believe in hiring smart, curious people who are excited to learn and develop their skills. If you're excited about this role but your past experience doesn't align perfectly with the points outlined in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyways. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

Pay and benefits

This internship role is based in either Figma's San Francisco or New York hub offices, and has the hourly base pay rate stated below. Figma also offers interns a housing stipend and travel reimbursement. Figma's compensation and benefits are subject to change and may be modified in the future.

Examples of accommodations include but are not limited to

• Holding interviews in an accessible location
• Enabling closed captioning on video conferencing
• Ensuring all written communication be compatible with screen readers
• Changing the mode or format of interviews

To ensure the integrity of our hiring process and facilitate a more personal connection, we require all candidates keep their cameras on during video interviews. Additionally, if hired you will be required to attend in person onboarding.

By applying for this job, the candidate acknowledges and agrees that any personal data contained in their application or supporting materials will be processed in accordance with Figma's Candidate Privacy Notice.

Application limits: To help candidates focus on the opportunities most relevant to their skills and experience, Figma limits the number and frequency of applications. These limits apply to all roles:

• Candidates may submit up to 5 applications during any rolling 30-day period.
• Candidates may not reapply to the same role while an application is active or within 90 days of receiving a rejection.

Once the applicable days has passed, candidates are welcome to apply again.