PhD Software Engineering Intern, Decision Intelligence - Fall 2026

Location: US, CA, Santa Clara

Time Type: Full time

Job Description

NVIDIA has been transforming computer graphics, PC gaming, and accelerated computing for more than 25 years. It’s a unique legacy of innovation that’s fueled by great technology—and amazing people. Today, we’re tapping into the unlimited potential of AI to define the next era of computing. An era in which our GPU acts as the brains of computers, robots, and self-driving cars that can understand the world. Doing what’s never been done before takes vision, innovation, and the world’s best talent. As an NVIDIAN, you’ll be immersed in a diverse, supportive environment where everyone is inspired to do their best work. Come join the team and see how you can make a lasting impact on the world.

Are you passionate about decision optimization, genAI, and advanced parallel computing techniques? NVIDIA's cuOpt team is at the forefront of redefining decision-making systems with a GPU-accelerated open-source platform. If you are looking for a place where you can apply your outstanding skills and make a meaningful impact, this is the opportunity for you! Join us to help build the future of decision intelligence.

What you'll be doing:

• Prototype and develop parallel algorithms for decision optimization problems

• Performance tuning, optimization, and benchmarking of large-scale parallel numerical software

• Collaborate with team members to understand software use cases and requirements

What we need to see:

• Pursuing a PhD degree in Computer Science or a related field

• Excellent parallel C++ programming, with familiarity in CUDA programming

• Deep understanding of algorithms and numerical methods fundamentals in operations research and optimization

• Mathematical programming (linear, quadratic, mixed-integer) and/or fundamentals of heuristics like genetic algorithms and large neighborhood search

• Ability to work independently and lead your own development effort

Ways to stand out from the crowd:

• Experience in algorithmic discovery via autoresearch agents and automated code evolution

• Track record of relevant open-source contributions in optimization, machine learning, or GPU programming

• Understanding of hardware and system architecture, including CPU/GPU/Memory/Storage, and everything related to performance optimization

• Proficiency in a scripting language, preferably Python

Widely considered to be one of the technology world’s most desirable employers, NVIDIA offers highly competitive salaries and a comprehensive benefits package. As you plan your future, see what we can offer to you and your family www.nvidiabenefits.com/

Our internship hourly rates are a standard pay based on the position, your location, year in school, degree, and experience. The hourly rate for our interns is 30 USD - 94 USD.

You will also be eligible for Intern benefits. ​

Applications for this job will be accepted at least until May 26, 2026.

This posting is for an existing vacancy. 

NVIDIA uses AI tools in its recruiting processes.

NVIDIA is committed to fostering a diverse work environment and proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As we highly value diversity in our current and future employees, we do not discriminate (including in our hiring and promotion practices) on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability status or any other characteristic protected by law.