Research Scientist Intern, Applied Perception (PhD) at Meta in Sunnyvale, California

Job Description:

The Applied Perception Science & Image Quality team is seeking interns for 2025. Meta Reality Labs is a world leader in the design of virtual and augmented reality systems. We are currently seeking innovative interns with an interest in applied and fundamental research in fields related to perception with relevance to virtual and augmented reality.The focus of this internship is to further perceptual research, informing the design of virtual and augmented reality systems. You will have the unique opportunity to work with the best-in-class researchers and engineers defining the future of these technologies. We are accepting applications from students interested in (but not limited to) the following areas:Vision scienceApplied perceptionComputer graphicsComputational displayDisplay technologiesTone mappingSpatio-temporal contrast sensitivityMotion perceptionPerception of luminance and contrastImage processing algorithmsColorimetryColor correction/mappingGamut mappingComputational modeling of the visual systemVisual Quality metricsText LegibilityVergence/accommodation interactionsVisual ergonomics

Research Scientist Intern, Applied Perception (PhD) Responsibilities:

• Design and implementation of experiments or models that explore aspects of visual perception as it pertains to the design of novel display modes, like virtual and augmented reality.


• Collaboration with and support of other researchers across various disciplines (human factors, optics, graphics, display).


• Communication of research agenda, progress and results over the course of the intern project.


• Work to produce publication worthy results.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Currently has, or is in the process of obtaining, a PhD degree in the field of Computer Graphics or Perception (e.g. Computer Science, Vision Science, Perceptual Psychology, Electrical Engineering, or a similar field).


• Experience with research involving defining problems, exploring solutions, and analyzing and presenting results


• Must obtain work authorization in the country of employment at the time of hire and maintain ongoing work authorization during employment.


• Experience with visual perception.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Intent to return to degree-program after the completion of the internship/co-op.


• Ability to design and perform psychophysical experiments.


• Understanding of the graphics rendering pipeline.


• Proficiency in Matlab or similar programming languages


• Understanding of display calibration.


• Demonstrated software engineering experience via an internship, work experience, coding competitions or scientific publications.


• Knowledge of optics, signal processing, mathematical modeling and/or simulation expertise with respect to visual perception and/or systems design.


• Proven track record of achieving significant results as demonstrated by first-authored publications in high-impact journals or conferences (e. g., SIGGRAPH, SIGGRAPH Asia, Eurographics, CVPR, ICCV, ECCV, Journal of Vision, etc.).

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.



Meta is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, sexual stereotypes, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state and local law. Meta participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations, as required by law. Please note that Meta may leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies in connection with applications for employment.

Meta is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities in our recruiting process. If you need any assistance or accommodations due to a disability, please let us know at accommodations-ext@fb.com.


$7,313/month to $11,333/month + benefits


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. Apply Now