About the role#
Visa Research is looking for a PhD student to join the Foundational AI team. This internship focuses on generative AI and large language models, specifically looking at scalable methods, model adaptation, and evaluation. You will work on projects that bridge the gap between scientific research and practical applications for enterprise-scale systems.
What you'll do#
- Conduct research on generative AI and LLMs, including model adaptation and evaluation.
- Design and implement AI algorithms for large-scale systems.
- Build proof-of-concept prototypes to move research into products.
- Optimize workflows for data pipelines, model training, and inference.
- Write technical reports, publications, and intellectual property submissions.
- Work with engineering and product teams to deliver AI solutions.
What you'll need#
- Current enrollment in a PhD program with a graduation date of December 2027 or later.
- A strong research background shown through publications, patents, presentations, or technical contributions.
- Experience with deep learning, generative AI, LLMs, scalable machine learning, or AI agents.
- Knowledge of distributed systems, efficient inference, or large-scale model training.
- Proficiency in Python, C++, or Java.
- Familiarity with big data frameworks like Hadoop or Spark.
- Ability to communicate complex ideas and adapt to changing research priorities.
Location & details#
- Location: Foster City, California.
- Modality: Hybrid, with at least 3 days per week in the office.
- Type: Full-time internship.
- Compensation: $66.00 to $73.00 per hour.
- Travel: 5-10% of the time.
About Visa
Visa operates as a global payments technology company. It manages digital transactions between consumers, merchants, financial institutions, and government entities. The company maintains a presence in over 200 countries and territories. It is a public company based in Foster City, California, with a workforce of over 10,000 employees.
How to get in at Visa
Applying to Visa early provides a distinct advantage because recruiters review applications as they arrive. Intern Insider sends an instant alert the moment a role matching your target is published anywhere, so you apply among the first and get seen before the pile grows. You can also improve your response rates by reaching out to the recruiters behind these roles directly. Intern Insider surfaces the recruiters behind the company roles so you can ask about the position or request a referral, which is often more effective than submitting your resume into a queue.



