Graduate Intern, Applied Research - Technology and Innovation (Spring 2027)

As a business unit, Delta Innovation maintains a portfolio of projects driven by fundamental research, emerging technology exploration, new product innovation, business impact, and operational goals. From investigating future opportunities and prototyping concepts to designing new interactive experiences, our research team works on real-world challenges that span the airline industry, including airport operations, customer and employee experience, and commercial applications.

As an Applied Research Intern , you will help uncover and define meaningful business opportunities by developing a deep understanding of current-state experiences, user needs, operational realities, and potential for emerging technology integration. You will leverage qualitative research methodologies to gather insights from stakeholders, subject matter experts, frontline employees, industry resources, technical documentation, standards, and other information sources.

As an Applied Research Intern, you will also contribute to the broader Delta Innovation community through knowledge sharing, intern collaboration opportunities, and special projects that support strategic innovation initiatives across the organization. You will work closely with researchers, designers, engineers, and business stakeholders to identify pain points, uncover opportunity areas, and help shape concepts, prototypes, and innovation strategies. Success in this role requires curiosity, adaptability, and the ability to navigate ambiguity while transforming complex information into actionable recommendations.