Applied AI Scientist Intern (North America - University Students)

ZS is a place where passion changes lives. As a management consulting and technology firm focused on improving life and how we live it, our most valuable asset is our people. Here you’ll work side-by-side with a powerful collective of thinkers and experts shaping life-changing solutions for patients, caregivers and consumers, worldwide. ZSers drive impact by bringing a client first mentality to each and every engagement. We partner collaboratively with our clients to develop custom solutions and technology products that create value and deliver company results across critical areas of their business. Bring your curiosity for learning; bold ideas; courage and passion to drive life-changing impact to ZS.Our most valuable asset is our people.At ZS we honor the visible and invisible elements of our identities, personal experiences and belief systems—the ones that comprise us as individuals, shape who we are andmake us unique. We believe your personal interests, identities, and desire to learn are part of your success here. Learn more about our diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts and the networks ZS supports to assist our ZSers in cultivating community spaces, obtaining the resources they need to thrive, and sharing the messages they are passionate about.APPLIED AI SCIENTIST - INTERN The ZAIDYN platform team is driving the development and commercialization of a robust ecosystem of AI and Generative AI products across industries.We are seeking a highly motivated Applied AI Scientist Intern with a strong foundation in Machine Learning and a deep interest in Large Language Models (LLMs) and Generative AI. This role focuses on building, optimizing, and evaluating production-grade LLM systems, including Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG), fine-tuning workflows, and scalable inference pipelines.What You’ll DoDesign and implement LLM-powered applications using state-of-the-art transformer models.Build and optimize RAG pipelines using embeddings, chunking strategies, and vector search.Experiment with prompt engineering, structured outputs (JSON schemas/function calling), and tool-augmented LLMs (agents/workflows).Fine-tune models using techniques such as LoRA, PEFT, and instruction tuning.Develop and evaluate embedding models for similarity search and semantic retrieval.Conduct LLM evaluation using automated and human-in-the-loop techniques (offline + online).Optimize inference workflows for latency, GPU utilization, and cost efficiency (quantization, batching, caching).Build and maintain REST API Services (FastAPI etc.) to deploy LLM/RAG endpoints, integrate with product systems, and support scalable inference.Contribute to integration of AI systems into production software environments (CI/CD, monitoring, reliability).Research and prototype cutting-edge approaches in Generative AI and share learnings with the team. What You’ll BringCandidates should be pursuing a master's degree in Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, Statistics, or a related field with strong academic performance in analytic and quantitative coursework; Strong foundation in Machine Learning, Deep Learning, Neural Networks, Transformer architecture, self-attention mechanisms, pretraining vs. fine-tuning, and instruction tuningHands-on experience with either LLM Frameworks (Hugging Face, OpenAI APIs, vLLM, etc.) and/or PyTorch / TensorFlowFamiliarity with Embedding models, Vector databases, RAG architectures, Prompt engineering best practices, LLM evaluation techniques, Inference optimization (quantization, batching)Additional SkillsGood to have: LangChain, LangGraph, Langfuse (observability/evals), and related tooling for orchestration and monitoringExcellent oral and written communication skills; Strong attention to detail, with a research-focused mindset; Excellent critical thinking and problem-solving skills; High motivation, good work ethic and maturity. How you’ll grow:Cross-functional skills development & custom learning pathwaysMilestone training programs aligned to career progression opportunitiesInternal mobility paths that empower growth via s-curves, individual contribution and role expansionsPerks & Benefits:At ZS, your growth matters. We offer a comprehensive total rewards package that supports your health and well‑being, financial future, time away, and professional development. With robust skills‑building programs, multiple career progression paths, internal mobility, and a deeply collaborative culture, you’ll have the opportunity to do meaningful work, expand your capabilities, and thrive as part of a global community. For details on total rewards in United States, visit ZS US office locations | Where we work | ZS.Hybrid working model:We are committed to giving our employees a flexible and connected way of working. A flexible and connected ZS allows us to combine work from home and on-site presence at clients/ZS offices for the majority of our week. The magic of ZS culture and innovation thrives in both planned and spontaneous face-to-face connections.Travel:Travel is a requirement at ZS for client facing ZSers; business needs of your project and client are the priority. While some projects may be local, all client-facing ZSers should be prepared to travel as needed. Travel provides opportunities to strengthen client relationships, gain diverse experiences, and enhance professional growth by working in different environments and cultures.Considering applying?At ZS, we honor the visible and invisible elements of our identities, personal experiences, and belief systems—the ones that comprise us as individuals, shape who we are, and make us unique. We believe your personal interests, identities, and desire to learn are integral to your success here. We are committed to building a team that reflects a broad variety of backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences. Learn more about our inclusion and belonging efforts and the networks ZS supports to assist our ZSers in cultivating community spaces and obtaining the resources they need to thrive.If you’re eager to grow, contribute, and bring your unique self to our work, we encourage you to apply.ZS is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing equal employment and advancement opportunities without regard to any class protected by applicable law.To complete your application:Candidates must possess or be able to obtain work authorization for their intended country of employment. An on-line application, including a full set of transcripts (official or unofficial), is required to be considered.NO AGENCY CALLS, PLEASE.Find Out More At:www.zs.com