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Compiler Optimizations in Kotlin/Native

Description

The Kotlin/Native team is currently developing a new intermediate representation (IR) for the Kotlin compiler. This IR is a graph-based, Static Single Assignment (SSA) representation inspired by Cliff Click’s Sea-of-Nodes.

We are looking for an intern to help us unleash the potential of this new infrastructure by implementing OOP-oriented optimization passes to enhance the performance of the Kotlin/Native backend.

Core Tasks

Possible internship projects include developing one or more of the following optimization passes:

  • Elimination of redundant static initializer calls

  • Array bounds-checking elimination

  • Escape analysis and scalar replacement or stack allocation

What You Will Learn

  • Deep expertise in modern compiler architecture and SSA-based intermediate representations.

  • Practical application of graph algorithms

  • Performance analysis and benchmarking

  • Internal mechanics of the Kotlin/Native toolchain

Requirements

  • Currently pursuing or recently graduated from a Computer Science degree, or a degree in a related field

  • Programming experience (familiarity with Kotlin is a plus)

  • Experience with compilers is a plus

Admission

Internship Projects Summer/Fall 2026

Contact details

internship@jetbrains.com

Preferred internship location

Armenia
Cyprus
Czechia
Germany
Netherlands
Poland
Serbia
Spain
UK

Technologies

Compilers
Kotlin

Area

Development
Research

Internship timing preferences

Flexible start

Candidate graduation status

Final-year students preferred

Additional information

Potential thesis
Applications by 16.03.2026
Interview by 17.04.2026
Feedback and final results by 22.04.2026