1

Summer Computer Science Research Assistant Jobs in Somerville, MA

Research Assistant III

Cambridge, MA · Hybrid

$21.25 - $29.25/hr

The Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) is the historic heart of Harvard University. It is the home ... This Research Assistant works within the Ramanathan lab, alongside graduate students and ...

... computer for extended periods; occasionally lift and transport laboratory supplies weighing up to ... Able to critically read and discuss scientific research publications. * Collaborate with a diverse ...

Research Assistant II

Boston, MA · On-site

$21 - $28.75/hr

... computer for extended periods; occasionally lift and transport laboratory supplies weighing up to ... Able to critically read and discuss scientific research publications. * Collaborate with a diverse ...

The Faculty of Arts and Sciences (FAS) is the historic heart of Harvard University. It is the home ... This Research Assistant works within the Ramanathan lab, alongside graduate students and ...

Guided by our core values-Scientific Rigor, Operational Excellence, Commitment to Sponsors and ... The Clinical Research Assistant (RA) provides foundational support in the conduct of clinical ...

Clinical Research Assistant

Boston, MA · On-site

$24 - $26.92/hr

Guided by our core values-Scientific Rigor, Operational Excellence, Commitment to Sponsors and ... The Clinical Research Assistant (RA) provides foundational support in the conduct of clinical ...

Clinical Research Assistant

Boston, MA · On-site

$24 - $26.92/hr

Guided by our core values-Scientific Rigor, Operational Excellence, Commitment to Sponsors and ... The Clinical Research Assistant (RA) provides foundational support in the conduct of clinical ...

Clinical Research Assistant

Boston, MA · On-site

$24 - $26.92/hr

Guided by our core values--Scientific Rigor, Operational Excellence, Commitment to Sponsors and ... The Clinical Research Assistant (RA) provides foundational support in the conduct of clinical ...

PhD in computer science with file systems, GPU architecture experience. Proven ability to articulate research work and findings in peer-reviewed proceedings. Knowledge of systems programming skills ...

... Computer Science, Machine Learning, Statistics, or a related field and one year of research or work experience in the job offered, or as a Research Scientist, Research Assistant, Software Engineer ...

... Computer Science, Machine Learning, Statistics, or a related field and one year of research or work experience in the job offered, or as a Research Scientist, Research Assistant, Software Engineer ...

Showing results 21-40

Summer Computer Science Research Assistant information

See Somerville, MA salary details

$9

$23

$34

How much do summer computer science research assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average hourly pay for summer computer science research assistant in Somerville, MA is $23.91, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.19 and $27.79 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a summer computer science research assistant?

Summer Computer Science Research Assistants are typically undergraduate or graduate students who work with faculty or research teams during the summer months to contribute to ongoing computer science research projects. Their responsibilities may include coding, data analysis, literature reviews, and helping to design or run experiments. This position offers hands-on experience in the research process and exposure to advanced topics in computer science. It is an excellent opportunity for students interested in pursuing graduate studies or careers in research and development. Assistants often gain valuable mentorship and may even co-author publications or present findings.

What types of projects do summer computer science research assistants typically work on, and how much independence can I expect in the role?

Summer Computer Science Research Assistants often contribute to ongoing faculty-led research projects, which may range from developing algorithms and analyzing datasets to building prototypes or conducting experiments in areas like machine learning or human-computer interaction. While you will receive guidance from a supervising researcher or graduate student, you are often encouraged to take initiative, propose ideas, and manage specific project tasks independently. The balance between supervision and independence will depend on the project's complexity, your experience level, and the research group's structure, but most programs aim to provide a supportive environment that fosters both learning and autonomy.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a summer computer science research assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Summer Computer Science Research Assistant, you need a solid understanding of programming concepts, data structures, and algorithms, usually supported by coursework or a degree in computer science or a related field. Familiarity with research tools, coding languages like Python or Java, and version control systems such as Git are typically required. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills help you collaborate with researchers and present findings clearly. These skills are vital to contribute meaningfully to research projects, solve technical problems, and communicate results within a team environment.

What is the difference between Summer Computer Science Research Assistant vs Summer Data Science Intern?

AspectSummer Computer Science Research AssistantSummer Data Science Intern
Required CredentialsUndergraduate or graduate in CS or related fieldUndergraduate or graduate in Data Science, Statistics, or related field
Work EnvironmentAcademic or research labs, university settingsCorporate, tech companies, or research organizations
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, research institutions, government labsTech firms, startups, data-driven companies
Common Search & ComparisonYesNo

The Summer Computer Science Research Assistant typically focuses on academic research projects, often within university labs, emphasizing theoretical and experimental computer science. In contrast, a Summer Data Science Intern usually works on practical data analysis, modeling, and business insights within industry settings. Both roles require strong technical skills, but their environments and objectives differ significantly.

How hard is it to get a job as a summer computer science research assistant?

Securing a summer computer science research assistant position typically requires strong programming skills, relevant coursework, and research experience or familiarity with tools like Python, Java, or data analysis. Competition can be high, so applicants with good academic records, relevant projects, and strong recommendations have better chances of being selected.

What do summer computer science research assistants do?

Summer computer science research assistants support ongoing research projects by conducting experiments, analyzing data, and developing software or algorithms. They often work closely with faculty or research teams, utilizing programming languages, tools, and methodologies relevant to their field, and typically gain hands-on experience in a research environment. Their tasks may include literature review, coding, testing, and documenting findings during the summer internship period.

What are popular job titles related to Summer Computer Science Research Assistant jobs in Somerville, MA?

For Summer Computer Science Research Assistant jobs in Somerville, MA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Summer Computer Science Research Assistant jobs in Somerville, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Summer Computer Science Research Assistant jobs in Somerville, MA are:

Infographic showing various Summer Computer Science Research Assistant job openings in Somerville, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% Internship, 55% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 5% Temporary, 10% Contract, and 5% Summer. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $49,731 per year, or $23.9 per hour.

Research Scientist, Reinforcement Learning

Basis Research Institute

Cambridge, MA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Job Summary:
Basis Research Institute is a nonprofit applied AI research organization focused on understanding and building intelligence while advancing society's ability to solve complex problems. The Research Scientist in Reinforcement Learning will lead efforts to develop new methods and algorithms in AI systems, focusing on reinforcement learning and planning, while collaborating with both internal teams and external partners.
Responsibilities:
• Conduct independent and collaborative research focused on the MARA project.
• Develop new methods and algorithms for reinforcement learning, planning, and decision-making in AI systems.
• Apply these methods to concrete challenges such as AutumnBench, physical and simulated robotics environments, and other domains.
• Disseminate research findings through academic publications and presentations at leading conferences.
• Provide mentorship to junior team members and contribute to the scientific discourse through seminars, workshops, and collaborative projects.
• Develop and maintain open-source software
• (Optionally) Publish and present findings in journals and conferences
• Contribute to the culture and direction of Basis
Qualifications:
Required:
• Researchers holding a PhD in computer science, artificial intelligence, machine learning, cognitive science, or related fields.
• Strong background in reinforcement learning, planning, MDPs, optimal control, and sequential decision making.
• Experience in developing AI systems that combine neural and symbolic methods is highly valued.
• Interest in foundational AI research and its applications to modeling, abstraction, and reasoning.
• Individuals with a demonstrated track record in scientific research, evidenced through publications, technical reports, or impactful software projects.
• Excited about solving real world problems and having positive societal impact.
Company:
Basis is a nonprofit applied research organization with two mutually reinforcing goals. The first is to understand and build intelligence. Founded in 2022, the company is headquartered in New York, USA, with a team of 11-50 employees. The company is currently Early Stage.