Research Scientist Intern, Perceptual Audio Scientist (PhD)

The perception of audio is at the center of our research, as it informs our work in spatial audio, speech intelligibility, defining audio quality, and many of the AR/VR systems. As a Research Scientist Intern on the Wearables Audio Technologies Team at Meta Reality Labs, you will be tackling the aerodynamics challenges that define cutting-edge augmented & virtual reality, conducting research at the intersection of basic and applied science, as it informs our technology directions and identifies opportunities for revolutions in our audio quality metrics and audio experiences.

We are seeking a Research Scientist Intern who has a background in aerodynamics and audio technology, and is excited about doing research that helps us inform AR/VR audio requirements and metrics for new technologies. We seek out experience in one or a combination in the following areas:
aerodynamics, hand-on measurement, hands-on hardware development, algorithms and applied ML/AI.

What We Offer:
Opportunity to work on cutting-edge AR/VR technology
Collaborative and dynamic work environment
Mentorship and support from experienced researchers
Professional development and growth opportunities
Competitive compensation and benefits packageResearch Scientist Intern, Perceptual Audio Scientist (PhD) Responsibilities

• Conduct research on how aerodynamics impact audio systems and algorithms from a physical perspective
• Derive novel solutions for aero dynamic / aero-acoustic measurement techniques and apply these at scale
• Concretely develop, implement and validate ML-based algorithmic control solutions for HW, based on measurements/analysis towards novel technical solutions
• Communicate the outcomes of measurements, model validation and developed HW/SW solutions for application in AR/VR devices

Minimum Qualifications

• Currently has, or is in the process of obtaining a PhD in physics, aerodynamic or fluid dynamics, control systems engineering, hearing science, acoustics, acoustic engineering, perceptual psychology, psychoacoustics, neuroscience, or a related field with an emphasis on aerodynamics / physics, and/or metric development for evaluating perceptual performance
• 2+ years experience with MATLAB, Python, or similar software environments for signal analysis and ML-based control algorithm development
• 2+ years of experience with aerodynamics, physical measurement, experimental methodology, ML and control systems
• Experience with common aerodynamics metrics, measurement systems techniques, wind and wind tunnels
• Hands-on maker experience for prototype system development with integrated HW, SW, and ML/AI solutions
• Knowledge of the audio, human auditory system and experience applying this model to novel situations and predict how the ear, brain, and body will respond
• Interpersonal experience: cross-group and cross-culture collaboration
• Must obtain work authorization in the country of employment at the time of hire, and maintain ongoing work authorization during employment
• Strong communication skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Intent to return to degree-program after the completion of the internship
• 2+ years of experience conducting research investigating (aero) fluid dynamics &/or control systems
• Knowledge of standard fluid dynamics metrics, and deriving new metrics for novel applications
• Experience with building prototype hardware + software control solutions
• Experience with research publicized in high-impact journals and international conference presentations or publications
• Experience in working on a team that ships products

For those who live in or expect to work from California if hired for this position, please click here for additional information. About Meta Meta builds technologies that help people connect, find communities, and grow businesses. When Facebook launched in 2004, it changed the way people connect. Apps like Messenger, Instagram and WhatsApp further empowered billions around the world. Now, Meta is moving beyond 2D screens toward immersive experiences like augmented and virtual reality to help build the next evolution in social technology. People who choose to build their careers by building with us at Meta help shape a future that will take us beyond what digital connection makes possible today—beyond the constraints of screens, the limits of distance, and even the rules of physics.
$error/year to $11,134/month + benefits
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Individual compensation is determined by skills, qualifications, experience, and location. Compensation details listed in this posting reflect the base hourly rate, monthly rate, or annual salary only, and do not include bonus, equity or sales incentives, if applicable. In addition to base compensation, Meta offers benefits. Learn more about benefits at Meta.

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