Top data science internships for 2024

There are tons of great data science internships for 2024. If you’re a recent graduate looking to boost your resume or get your foot in the door, or a current university student looking for a summer placement to gain valuable work experience, internships can be well worth it. Our list of data science internships in 2024 include well-known brands from a range of different industries, giving you lots to choose from.

What do you do in a data science internship?

Data science interns typically play a supportive role, aiding data scientists and their teams in gathering and analysing data. You’ll probably work as part of a team, providing different insights and generating reports, gaining experience in different aspects of data science.

One of the primary responsibilities of a data science intern is data collection and preprocessing. This involves gathering data from various sources, cleaning it to ensure accuracy, and preparing it for analysis. This foundational step is critical as it sets the stage for all subsequent data analysis and ensures the reliability of the results.

Another key aspect of the role is data analysis. Interns are often tasked with using statistical methods and data analysis tools to interpret and analyse data. This could involve identifying trends, patterns, and correlations within the data. Through this process, interns not only contribute to the organisation’s data-driven insights but also sharpen their analytical skills.

Lastly, communication is a vital skill for data science interns. They are often required to present their findings, explain their methodologies, and make recommendations based on their analyses to team members or even broader audiences within the organization. This might also involve generating materials to aid communication, such as data visualisations and visual representations of data findings using tools like Tableau or PowerBI.

The roles are typically a blend of learning and practical experience, which is a great way to boost your skills and knowledge while understanding what it’s like to actually work in data science jobs. However, it’s important to note that the specifics of your internship in data science can vary depending on your employer, meaning your experience might differ from that of other interns in similar positions.

In the UK, there are lots of different data science internships available, catering to a wide range of interests and career aspirations within the field. These internships vary not only in their focus areas but also in the type of organisations offering them.

1. Corporate internships

Large corporations, especially in finance, retail, and technology sectors, offer data science internships. These internships often focus on big data analytics, predictive modelling, and AI-driven market analysis. Companies like Barclays, Tesco, and IBM are known for providing robust data science internships, giving insights into large-scale data operations.

2. Tech startups

The dynamic startup ecosystem in the UK provides a fertile ground for data science internships. These roles are often more hands-on with a broader scope of responsibilities, ideal for those who enjoy a fast-paced, innovative environment. Interns might work on everything from developing algorithms to analysing user behaviour and trends.

3. Research and academic internships

Universities and research institutions offer internships that are more academically inclined. These are ideal for students interested in theoretical aspects of data science, such as machine learning algorithms, deep learning, and statistical methods. Interns might assist in academic research, contribute to scholarly articles, or participate in innovative projects.

4. Government and public sector internships

Public sector organisations, including health services and government departments, offer internships focusing on data analysis for public policy, healthcare analytics, and social research. These internships provide an opportunity to work on projects that have a direct impact on public services and policy-making.

5. Non-profit and NGO internships

For those interested in social good, non-profits and NGOs offer internships where data science is applied to social issues. Tasks might include analysing data to inform policy recommendations, evaluating the impact of programs, or enhancing operational efficiencies.

Each type of internship offers a unique set of experiences and learning opportunities, allowing students to explore different facets of data science and find their niche in this expansive field.

Data science internships for 2024 

1. Data Analytics, Jacobs

Jacobs is offering an exciting 8-week Summer Internship starting in July 2024, designed for those eager to challenge the status quo and contribute to meaningful projects. The internship focuses on Data Analytics within Jacobs’ Strategic Consulting team in London, where interns will engage in various sectors, contributing to strategy, financial advice, and operational improvements.

They typically look for students pursuing a degree in Data Analytics, Data Science, or a related field, who have a blend of flexibility, innovation, and a genuine interest in solving real-world problems. In addition to technical skills, Jacobs values diverse experiences and backgrounds, encouraging applicants with unique life stories. Interns will benefit from a supportive learning environment, including mentorship, networking opportunities, and a focus on health and wellbeing. This data science internship is a chance to be part of a team that’s shaping a better future through projects in climate change, security, and community development. You’ll need to make sure you have the right to work in the UK and be available for the full duration of the internship.

2. BNP Paribas

Renowned as ‘the bank for a changing world’ and lauded as the World’s Best Bank for Corporate Responsibility in 2019 by Euromoney magazine, BNP Paribas are a top global investment bank to secure an internship with. Their main commitment is to find an ethical way of financing the economy, nurturing our workforce, positively impacting society, and combating climate change.

Their Global Markets Summer data science internships, starting with a week of professional training, are designed to enhance both technical and professional skills. Interns experience real-world projects through rotations across different desks, gaining comprehensive insights into our operations. You’ll be encouraged to explore various areas within Global Markets through work-shadowing and attending workshops, interactive case studies, and networking events. This programme is an opportunity to engage with senior managers and colleagues, contributing to individual and team projects.

BNP Paribas are looking for students in their penultimate year of study, with basic coding skills (VBA, Python, C++), a strong academic record, proficiency in MS Office, and robust mathematical and analytical abilities. You’ll need to be able to show strong organisational, time management, and interpersonal skills, a professional demeanour, and proactive conduct.

3. Consulting, Deloitte

Deloitte offers a broad spectrum of expertise in audit, risk advisory, and consulting across various sectors. It prides itself on investing in individuals and nurturing talent, which makes them a great company to do data science internships – or other internships they offer for that matter.

They offer Industrial Placements as part of its data science internships. This is a year-long opportunity for university students to explore their career paths, allowing students to work alongside Deloitte’s first-year graduates, receive competitive pay and a potentially – an offer to join their graduate scheme based on performance. It’s not just about Deloitte evaluating students; it’s also an opportunity for students to understand Deloitte’s culture and determine if it aligns with their aspirations.

In consulting, Deloitte works on various challenges, from market analysis to change management. Joining Deloitte means growing expertise in these areas and influencing business futures through collaborative and creative problem-solving. Students should be on track for a 2:1 degree in any discipline and in their penultimate year.

4. Black Heritage Talent Insight Experience, Data & Analytics, Natwest Group

At NatWest, the Data & Analytics division plays a pivotal role in aligning the bank’s operations with its core purpose: to be a relationship bank in a digital world. This purpose is deeply ingrained in every aspect of their service, from customer interactions to app functionalities and support calls. The Data & Analytics team at NatWest is dedicated to harnessing customer data responsibly and effectively, making customer experiences smoother and more intuitive.

The focus in Data and Analytics is to keep data central to all operations. This involves recruiting top-tier Data Science and Engineering talent to manage and interpret the data efficiently. Data engineering and data science internships at NatWest involves understanding and profiling key data features to enhance data science models. Meanwhile, the data science aspect combines statistics, computer science, and problem-solving skills with robust research methods to optimise machine learning-driven decisions.

NatWest also offers a unique opportunity through its Black Heritage Talent Insight Experience. This two-day program, scheduled for April 12th and 13th, 2024, is designed to give participants a comprehensive view of working at NatWest Group. It includes immersive experiences with the Data & Analytics team, networking opportunities, and interactive sessions focusing on essential industry skills. This program is open to students in the early years of their degree programs, with no specific UCAS point requirements. Successful participants may have the opportunity to secure a place in NatWest’s 2025 Internship programs, provided they have the right to work in the UK in 2025.

5. DTS Software Engineering Summer Internship Programme, Centrica

Centrica, a leading integrated energy company, offers an exciting opportunity to join their 9-week data science Summer Internship programme. This data science internship is not just a job, but also allowing you to be part of something that’s good for the planet. The company comprises 12 diverse brands, including British Gas, aiming to energise homes and communities, with a strong commitment to sustainability and innovation.

As an intern at Centrica, you’ll be covering a wide range of areas in software engineering, such as Data Engineering, Data Science, Cloud Platform Engineering, Digital Product Engineering, Network Engineering, and Information/Cyber Security. You’ll get to learn about new software and data skills, as well as how to actually apply them in business contexts. Interns also receive lots of support from a network of technical experts, mentors, and a community of graduates. The key areas of work include developing web and mobile applications, enhancing customer and billing systems, and working on data engineering, machine learning, cloud platform, and cyber security technologies.

To apply, you’ll need to be on track for at least a 2:1 degree (or 2:2 with a Master’s), proficiency in Microsoft Office, and the right to work in the UK. The internship runs from 18th June to 16th August 2024, with a competitive salary of £21,000 (pro rata) and potential accommodation support.

6. Data Scientist Internship, Amazon

Amazon is offering data scientist internships in 2024, available in multiple European locations including the UK, Germany, Luxembourg, Italy, Spain, and France. These internships, lasting 3-6 months, are designed for full-time, on-site work (they’re not remote). The Amazon data science internships are aimed at MS or PhD students, who are passionate about data science, eager to innovate and apply machine learning in a business context, with a focus on customer-centric solutions.

If you’re successful, you’ll be able to join Amazon’s Data Science teams, engaging in tasks like developing new algorithms, working on interdisciplinary teams, and experiencing Amazon’s customer-focused culture. Key responsibilities include architecting and developing scientific solutions, creating and delivering machine learning projects that start locally and can be scaled globally, and building machine learning models using large datasets and cloud technology. Interns can also be involved in creating technical papers and presentations, and designing algorithms to gauge customer satisfaction and engagement.

7. Data Scientist Internship Cambridge 2024, Schlumberger (SLB)

Part of SLB’s global network of research and engineering centres, SLB Cambridge Research (SCR) is a dynamic and multidisciplinary hub focusing on state-of-the-art research and computing facilities. It’s dedicated to applied research in physical sciences, addressing both current and future industry challenges.

SLB is a global technology company, creating technology that facilitates access to energy, aiming to balance the reduction of emissions with the growing global energy demands. The company’s mission is centred on decarbonising the fossil fuel industry and pioneering a new energy landscape, contributing to progress for both people and the planet.

The internship will allow you to work with SCR’s DataLab team, helping to develop data science solutions for Energy Transition and Well Construction challenges. The role involves collaborating with research and data scientists to create workflows and applications, focusing on advanced data analysis, automated decision-making, and user interfacing. You could also end up working on projects involving AI/ML implementation and AI planning, depending on their interests and internship duration.

Key responsibilities include gathering requirements, proposing solutions, developing data workflows, creating user applications, and presenting results to stakeholders. It’s geared towards students studying  Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related field, with a strong interest in programming, particularly in Python, and a passion for data science. Knowledge in SQL, ML libraries, and web application development is also helpful to point out when applying.

8. Machine Learning Internship (Inclusive Multi-modal Models) Cambridge 2024, Microsoft

One of the most sought-after data science internships is working as part of Bill Gates’ company i.e. Microsoft. Microsoft Research Cambridge’s Teachable AI Experiences (TAIX) team is seeking a machine learning intern to enhance the understanding of multi-modal models, especially image-text models. The intern’s project will focus on identifying and addressing the failure modes of these models to ensure they perform equitably across various user groups and scenarios.

It’s suitable if you’ve got a good, in-depth knowledge of advanced image-text models like GPT-4Vision, CLIP, Flamingo, BLIP, PaLI, Llava, and have expertise in areas such as AI fairness, model adaptation methods, and AI interpretability/transparency. The role requires a multi-disciplinary approach and a commitment to developing AI technologies that include marginalised communities.

The internship involves conducting cutting-edge research on text-image model performance, developing and validating new approaches, and collaborating with a diverse team. You’ll be expected to effectively communicate their research findings and may have the opportunity to contribute to publications or Microsoft products. It’s a lot of responsibility, and most suited to those pursuing a PhD in machine learning or a related field.

There are tons of data science internships to choose from in the UK for 2024. There’s also plenty of engineering internships and internships specifically just for summer, so it won’t interfere with your studying.