Summer 2026 Intern - R&D Engineering (Ph.D. Only)

Western Digital is seeking a highly motivated Ph.D. level intern to join our R&D Engineering team focused on memory optical computing. The candidate will work on cutting-edge research combining photonics and memory technologies to enable next-generation computing architectures.

Requirements

• Conduct research and simulations for optical computing and memory integration.
• Develop and optimize photonic device designs using industry-standard simulation tools.
• Explore novel architectures leveraging spintronics for memory and logic applications.
• Analyze performance metrics and propose improvements for scalability and efficiency.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams in optics, materials, and device engineering.

Benefits

• Opportunity to work on industry-first innovations in memory and optical computing.
• Mentorship from leading experts in photonics and memory technologies.
• Paid vacation time
• Paid sick leave
• Medical/dental/vision insurance
• Life, accident and disability insurance
• Tax-advantaged flexible spending and health savings accounts
• Employee assistance program
• Other voluntary benefit programs such as supplemental life and AD&D, legal plan, pet insurance, critical illness, accident and hospital indemnity
• Tuition reimbursement
• Transit
• The Applause Program
• Employee stock purchase plan
• The WD Savings 401(k) Plan