Research Scientist Intern, Through-Body Acoustics (PhD) at Meta in Burlingame, California

Job Description:

Understanding how ultrasonic waves propagate through the different tissues of the human body has many important applications for AR/VR. However, this problem is still largely unexplored and extremely complex to model. Meta is leading a cutting-edge investigation in this space, relying on world-class experts. The successful candidate will join Meta's through-body acoustics team to investigate the long-range propagation of ultrasonic waves in the human body using both experiments and simulations, explore different ultrasound carrier frequencies, modulation waveforms, launch configurations, transducers and body coupling, and estimate fundamental wave propagation parameters, such as dispersion, attenuation, and group velocity.Our internships are twelve (12) to twenty-four (24) weeks long and we have various start dates throughout the year. Some projects may require a minimum of 16 consecutive weeks.

Research Scientist Intern, Through-Body Acoustics (PhD) Responsibilities:

• Design and perform experiments to study wave propagation through human tissues.


• Conduct experiments using ultrasonic transducers, laser vibrometers and/or mechanical testing techniques.


• Collect and analyze data from experiments using MATLAB, Python, or other software tools.


• Collaborate with researchers to develop computational models of wave propagation through human tissues.


• Participate in team meetings and contribute to the development of research ideas and plans.


• Prepare reports and presentations on the results of experiments and modeling efforts.


• Assist with the maintenance and upkeep of laboratory equipment and facilities.


• Attend relevant seminars, workshops, and conferences to expand knowledge and skills.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Currently has or is in the process of obtaining a PhD degree program in physics, engineering, mechanics, or relevant technical field.


• Experience with experimental techniques to study wave propagation through human tissue including, but not limited to, ultrasound imaging, ultrasound Doppler, quantitative ultrasound, acoustic exposimetry, or laser Doppler vibrometry.


• Experience with acoustic signal processing including, but not limited to, 2D Fourier transform, Radon transform, Ricker wavelet decomposition, dispersion relation estimation, time reversal, beam forming, or surface-wave inversion methods.


• Experience with finite-element acoustics modeling in Ansys, Comsol, or other similar tools.


• Experience with programming languages such as MATLAB, Python, or C++.


• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to work independently.


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

Preferred Qualifications:

• Proven track record of achieving significant results as demonstrated by grants, fellowships, patents, as well as first-authored publications at leading workshops or conferences such as QNDE, SPIE Smart Structures + NDE, or similar.


• Experience with ultrasound guided waves.


• Experience with ultrasound non-destructive evaluation.


• Experience with seismology signal processing techniques.


• Experience with ultrasound transducers including, but not limited to, coupling methods to soft tissue, loading effects, matching networks, or driving-signal generation.


• Experience with CAD programs such as SolidWorks or AutoCAD.


• Experience working and communicating cross functionally in a team environment.


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


• Availability for minimum 16 consecutive week internship.

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 $11,293/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