Research Scientist Intern (Privacy Innovation Lab) - 2025 Summer (PhD)

Team Introduction

Privacy Innovation (PI) Lab is established to explore the next frontier of privacy technology and theory in the digitalized world.

We provide key insights and technical solutions on privacy-related innovation for all TikTok’s products. Furthermore, we also collaborate with worldwide technical and academic communities to build an open ecosystem to promote privacy friendly digital experience.

We are looking for talented individuals to join us for an internship in 2025. Internships at TikTok aim to offer students industry exposure and hands-on experience.

Turn your ambitions into reality as your inspiration brings infinite opportunities at TikTok. Internships at TikTok aim to provide students with hands-on experience in developing fundamental skills and exploring potential career paths.

A vibrant blend of social events and enriching development workshops will be available for you to explore. Here, you will utilize your knowledge in real-world scenarios while laying a strong foundation for personal and professional growth.

This Internship Program runs for 12 weeks beginning in May / June 2025. Successful candidates must be able to commit to one of the following summer internship start dates below : Monday, May 12Monday, May 19Tuesday May 27 (Memorial Day May 26)Monday, June 9Monday, June 23 We will prioritize candidates who are able to commit to these start dates.

Please state your availability clearly in your resume (Start date, End date). Candidates can apply to a maximum of two positions and will be considered for jobs in the order you apply.

The application limit is applicable to TikTok and its affiliates' jobs globally. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis - we encourage you to apply early.

Online AssessmentCandidates who pass resume evaluation will be invited to participate in TikTok's technical online assessment in HackerRank.

Responsibilities We are looking for Research Interns to help us identify new opportunities and develop scientifically sound systems to improve technological guarantees for user privacy and advance the efficient frontier of privacy and utility in our systems, contribute to the development of libraries and tools to support research and business, and publish influential research findings in prestigious journals and at prestigious conferences.

Minimum QualificationsCurrently pursuing a PhD degree in Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Statistics, Mathematics, or a related technical discipline.

• Able to commit to working for 12 weeks during Summer 2025.- At least one of the following skills is required : Secure Multi-Party Computation techniques, Differential Privacy, Federated Learning or Federated Analytics, Homomorphic Encryption.
• Ability to communicate research findings clearly and precisely.- Ability to design and implement analytical and / or algorithmic solutions that are tailored to specific business needs and tested on large data sets.
• Programming proficiency : Familiar with Python, C++, Pytorch, Tensorflow, etc.- A demonstrated track record of research publication.
• Must obtain work authorization in country of employment at the time of hire, and maintain ongoing work authorization during employment.

Preferred Qualifications - Graduating December 2025 onwards with the intent to return to degree program after the completion of the internship.