Research Scientist Intern (Multimedia Streaming) - 2027 Start (PhD)

ByteDance; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 35,000; Part time

Job summary

ByteDance's research internship in San Diego focuses on performance analysis and optimization of large-scale streaming and real-time media delivery systems. You will prototype new algorithms, evaluate QoE metrics, and work closely with researchers to turn ideas into practical products.

The role requests a PhD candidate with strong fundamentals in algorithms, data structures, and systems, plus proven research ability and collaborative communication skills.

Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a PhD in CS, EE, or related field.
• Strong fundamentals in algorithms, data structures, systems, networking.
• Research experience: publications or projects.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Good communication and collaboration in a research environment.

Responsibilities

• Conduct research on performance analysis and optimization of large-scale streaming systems.
• Explore novel algorithms and system designs for multimedia formats.
• Investigate QoE metrics, modeling, and evaluation for multimedia delivery systems.
• Build research prototypes, run experiments, analyze data, and report findings.
• Collaborate with researchers and engineers to translate ideas into practical solutions.
• Contribute to technical reports, publications, and internal documentation.

Skills

Algorithms

Data structures

Computer systems

Networking

Software development

Communication skills

Collaboration

Education

Pursuing PhD in CS/EE or related field

Job description

Join us as we work together to inspire creativity and enrich life around the globe.

Location:

Team:

Technology

Employment Type:

Intern

Job Code:

A123952B

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Responsibilities

• Conduct research on performance analysis and optimization of large-scale streaming systems, including on-demand streaming, live streaming, and real-time communication.
• Explore and prototype novel algorithms, architectures, and system designs for emerging media formats, such as 360-degree video, volumetric video, and light field streaming.
• Investigate QoE-related metrics, modeling approaches, and evaluation methodologies for large-scale multimedia delivery systems.
• Build research prototypes, run experiments, analyze data, and generate insights to validate technical hypotheses.
• Collaborate closely with researchers and engineers to translate research ideas into practical solutions and potential product innovations.
• Contribute to technical reports, academic publications, patent filings, and internal research documentation.

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Currently pursuing a PhD in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, or a related field.
• Strong fundamentals in algorithms, data structures, computer systems, networking, and software development.
• Demonstrated research ability through publications, submitted manuscripts, or substantial project experience in relevant areas.
• Strong problem-solving, experimentation, and analytical skills.
• Effective communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a research-driven environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Research experience in multimedia systems, video streaming, networking, distributed systems, or related domains.
• Familiarity with CDN systems, content delivery optimization, adaptive streaming, or low-latency media transport.
• Experience with transport protocols, congestion control, or real-time communication systems.
• Experience applying machine learning or reinforcement learning to multimedia or networked systems.
• Interest in next-generation streaming applications, such as cloud gaming, cloud XR, immersive media, or interactive streaming.

Job Information

About Us

Founded in 2012, ByteDance's mission is to inspire creativity and enrich life. With a suite of more than a dozen products, including TikTok, Lemon8, CapCut and Pico as well as platforms specific to the China market, including Toutiao, Douyin, and Xigua, ByteDance has made it easier and more fun for people to connect with, consume, and create content.

Why Join ByteDance

Inspiring creativity is at the core of ByteDance's mission. Our innovative products are built to help people authentically express themselves, discover and connect – and our global, diverse teams make that possible. Together, we create value for our communities, inspire creativity and enrich life - a mission we work towards every day.

As ByteDancers, we strive to do great things with great people. We lead with curiosity, humility, and a desire to make impact in a rapidly growing tech company. By constantly iterating and fostering an "Always Day 1" mindset, we achieve meaningful breakthroughs for ourselves, our Company, and our users. When we create and grow together, the possibilities are limitless. Join us.

Diversity & Inclusion

ByteDance is committed to creating an inclusive space where employees are valued for their skills, experiences, and unique perspectives. Our platform connects people from across the globe and so does our workplace. At ByteDance, our mission is to inspire creativity and enrich life. To achieve that goal, we are committed to celebrating our diverse voices and to creating an environment that reflects the many communities we reach. We are passionate about this and hope you are too.

Reasonable Accommodation

ByteDance is committed to providing reasonable accommodations in our recruitment processes for candidates with disabilities, pregnancy, sincerely held religious beliefs or other reasons protected by applicable laws. If you need assistance or a reasonable accommodation, please reach out to us at https://tinyurl.com/RA-request