From brainstorming to breakthrough

What makes a good researcher? For Mihir Upadhyay, a master’s student at New York University’s Center for Data Science, it’s more than just coding skills or theoretical knowledge. During his three-month internship at RC Trust, he found answers not only in data – but in people, structure, and collaboration. What started as a continuation of an academic connection turned into a transformative experience that shaped his approach to research.

Mihir Upadhyay joined the RC Trust Internship Program in May 2025, bringing with him a passion for data science and a curiosity for interdisciplinary collaboration. Having previously co-authored a paper with Prof. Bilal, he saw the program as an opportunity to deepen their exchange and grow as a researcher. “I just wanted to keep doing what I was doing – but better,” Mihir explains.
His work at RC Trust focused on analyzing diversity in responses generated by large language models (LLMs), exploring how their output shifts across different domains like politics or science. Under the mentorship of PhD student Elisabeth, Mihir contributed to data collection, evaluation metrics, and collaborative idea development. "There was no hierarchy," he recalls, "anyone could contribute – and that freedom made the work truly engaging."
What surprised him most about the German research environment? “It’s so organized,” he says with a smile. “Everything is structured and documented. That’s something I want to take back with me and apply in my own future projects.”
But Mihir’s gains were not only academic. Personally, he found a deeper understanding of what it means to become a better scientist: learning to lead research, being honest with collaborators, and recognizing the power of a supportive team. “If you’re honest, people reciprocate,” he reflects. “That’s something I’ve truly experienced here.”
A key moment was the visit from his NYU advisor – a meeting that helped the team align their ideas and push forward with renewed clarity. “That’s when things clicked,” Mihir says. “Since then, we haven’t looked back.”
Another highlight: a dinner at Prof. Bilal’s home. “That evening made me feel truly welcome. It wasn’t about the lab – it was about being seen as part of the group.”
Mihir encourages others to apply. “RC Trust is flexible. You can bring your own ideas, even if they come from a different domain. It's a fantastic opportunity to work with people who are really shaping the field.”

Want to learn more about the RC Trust Internship Program and how to apply?
Learn more here: https://rc-trust.ai/career/internship-program