Summer Intern Research and Development

Job Description

The Research team explores new technologies in a broad spectrum of areas ranging from Emerging Non-Volatile Memory (a.k.a Persistent Memory) device design and processes, low-latency system designs, distributed systems, security and cryptography, open source, linux kernel, new programing models, computational storage, information theory, data analytics and machine learning, mechanical systems, thermal modeling, interface protocols and standards, device drivers, client system design.

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Intern to join our team, focusing on quantum error correction (QEC),
design and analysis of quantum codes
, and development and implementation of quantum decoders
. The responsibilities of this position include:

• Collaborate with a team of researchers to design novel QEC schemes and evaluate existing code families
• Prototype quantum decoders and run simulations on classical and quantum hardware platforms
• Analyze the performance of various quantum codes and error correction techniques using numerical simulations and analytical methods
• Assist in the preparation of research papers, technical reports, and presentations for conferences and publications
• Participate in regular team meetings and contribute to discussions on research progress and future directions

This position is part of our Early Career program  Early Career program is designed to support individuals beginning their professional career by providing the foundational training through a structured onboarding, mentorship, and development curriculum.

• Current PhD student in electrical engineering, computer science, mathematics or physics, with a focus on quantum computing, quantum information science, or information theory
• Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, C++, or MATLAB; experience with quantum computing frameworks (e.g., Qiskit, Cirq) is a plus
• Strong academic record with publications or conference presentations in quantum computing or related fields preferred
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English

Western Digital is committed to providing equal opportunities to all applicants and employees and will not discriminate against any applicant or employee based on their race, color, ancestry, religion (including religious dress and grooming standards), sex (including pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, breastfeeding or related medical conditions), gender (including a person’s gender identity, gender expression, and gender-related appearance and behavior, whether or not stereotypically associated with the person’s assigned sex at birth), age, national origin, sexual orientation, medical condition, marital status (including domestic partnership status), physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, protected medical and family care leave, Civil Air Patrol status, military and veteran status, or other legally protected characteristics.

We also prohibit harassment of any individual on any of the characteristics listed above. Our non-discrimination policy applies to all aspects of employment. We comply with the laws and regulations set forth in the “Know Your Rights:
Workplace Discrimination is Illegal” poster. Our pay transparency policy is available here.

Western Digital thrives on the power and potential of diversity. As a global company, we believe the most effective way to embrace the diversity of our customers and communities is to mirror it from within. We believe the fusion of various perspectives results in the best outcomes for our employees, our company, our customers, and the world around us. We are committed to an inclusive environment where every individual can thrive through a sense of belonging, respect and contribution.

Western Digital is committed to offering opportunities to applicants with disabilities and ensuring all candidates can successfully navigate our careers website and our hiring process. Please contact us at  to advise us of your accommodation request. In your email, please include a description of the specific accommodation you are requesting as well as the job title…