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IBM

Research Scientist Internship - IBM Research - South Africa

IBM

Published 26 Mar 2026
Johannesburg, South Africa
Internship

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Role Highlights

Languages used

Python
Java
JavaScript
C++

Key skills

Machine Learning
Data Science
NLP
Generative AI
ML Ops
Computer Science
Integrations
API
Problem Solving
Data Management
Software Systems
Cloud Native
Research
Operations
Electronics
Statistics
LLMs
Database

Tools, Libraries and Frameworks

IBM
PyTorch

Description

\\\\Introduction\\\\ Join us for a unique 12-month paid internship at the IBM Research Africa lab in Johannesburg, South Africa. This program will give you an opportunity to work on meaningful technology solutions, develop scalable software systems, and collaborate with research scientists and engineers on cloud-based workflows in generative AI or in quantum computing. At IBM Research Africa, one of our missions is to get Africa Quantum-ready. We are therefore building an enthusiastic, highly skilled Quantum Computing Applications and Community team to attract, develop and support Quantum skills, research, and applications, which includes the development of quantum machine learning-based solutions for some of Africas most pressing challenges. Depending on your interests and experience, you will be working in one of the following areas: AI for data management or applications of quantum computing, focussing specifically on quantum machine learning. \\\\Your role and responsibilities\\\\ As a Student/Intern: Generalist, you will be employed by IBM as part of your academic program or during university breaks. This role is designed for students who are looking to gain professional experience while pursuing their education. Your primary responsibilities will include: Assist with projects: You will contribute to various projects and tasks, gaining hands-on experience and exposure to different aspects of the business. This will help you develop a deeper understanding of the company's operations and goals. Learn from professionals: You will have the opportunity to observe and learn from experienced professionals, gaining insight into their roles and responsibilities. This will help you build your skills and knowledge in a real-world setting. Support teams: You will assist teams with various tasks and projects, developing your teamwork and communication skills. This will give you a chance to collaborate with others and contribute to the success of the team. \\\\Required technical and professional expertise\\\\ \\ Currently enrolled in a Masters or Doctoral degree program in Computer Science, Computer & Electronics Engineering, Machine Learning, Data Science, Statistics, Quantum Computing or Quantum Information Science or related technical fields. \\\ Proficiency in Python, PyTorch and experience in at least one additional programming language such as Java, JavaScript, NodeJS, C/C++, etc. \\\ For interest in Quantum Applications research, we require experience with Qiskit \\\ For interest in AI for Data Management, we require familiarity with natural language processing (NL), Large Language Models (LLMs), Agentic frameworks, database query languages and data integration toolsRequire strong problem solving and analytical skills.Require strong communication and collaboration skills. \\\\Preferred technical and professional experience\\\\ \\ Experience communicating your research in technical communities, such as publications in Neurips, CVPR, ICML, ICLR, IJCAI, AAAI, KDD, VLDB, IEEE QCE or similar. \\\ Experience in cloud native technologies and platforms. \\\ A good understanding of machine learning concepts and some experience in MLOps \\\ Familiarity with developing and using APIs. IBM is committed to creating a diverse environment and is proud to be an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, caste, genetics, pregnancy, disability, neurodivergence, age, veteran status, or other characteristics. IBM is also committed to compliance with all fair employment practices regarding citizenship and immigration status.

Required Qualifications and Skills

Candidates must be currently enrolled in a Masters or Doctoral degree program in fields such as Computer Science, Computer & Electronics Engineering, Machine Learning, Data Science, Statistics, Quantum Computing, or Quantum Information Science. Proficiency in Python and PyTorch is required, along with experience in at least one additional programming language like Java, JavaScript, NodeJS, or C/C++. For those interested in Quantum Applications research, experience with Qiskit is necessary. For AI for Data Management interests, familiarity with natural language processing, Large Language Models, agentic frameworks, database query languages, and data integration tools is required. Strong problem-solving, analytical, communication, and collaboration skills are also essential.

Disclaimer

Disclaimer: Job and company description information and some of the data fields may have been generated via GPT-4 summarisation and could contain inaccuracies. The full external job listing link should always be relied on for authoritative information.

About the company

IBM

Size

305978

Website

ibm.com

HQ

Armonk, New York, US

Public/Private

Public Company

Description

IBM infuses core business operations with intelligence, from machine learning to generative AI, to make organizations more responsive, productive, and resilient. It helps clients put AI into action now, creating real value with trust, speed, and confidence across various areas like digital labor, IT automation, and security. The ability to utilize all data is critical, as AI's effectiveness is dependent on the quality of data fueling it, with IBM's AI, and data platform aiming to scale and accelerate AI's impact with trusted data. IBM's hybrid cloud platform offers a comprehensive approach to development, security, and operations across hybrid environments, laying a flexible foundation for leveraging data wherever it resides.

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