Robotics Systems Intern

The role

You will prototype wheeled mobile bases and lifting platforms. You will run hands-on experiments and evaluate how different designs perform under realistic operating conditions.

What you will do

• Assemble and modify mobile bases using hub motors and wheel assemblies.
• Help design and fabricate chassis, mounts, and supporting components.
• Compare navigation performance of different systems.
• Develop repeatable tests to evaluate maneuverability, traction, payload handling, and power consumption.
• Assemble, adapt, and test different lifting mechanisms like scissor lifts and telescoping columns.
• Integrate actuators, guides, mounts, and supporting structures.
• Compare lifting range, speed, positioning repeatability, rigidity, and stability.
• Configure motor controllers and connect position and speed feedback.
• Develop simple control and data-collection scripts.
• Maintain CAD files, wiring diagrams, parts lists, and test records.

Required qualifications

• Coursework, projects, or practical experience in mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, robotics, mechatronics, or a related discipline.
• Experience building and troubleshooting a physical system through coursework, research, student teams, or personal projects.
• Basic familiarity with mechanical assembly, electrical wiring, motors, and sensors.
• Interest in hands-on prototyping and systematic testing, including careful measurement and documentation.
• Comfort working with an engineering mentor and contributing to the upkeep of a shared robotics lab.

Nice to have

• CAD, 3D printing, machining, or fabrication of mechanical prototypes.
• BLDC motors, motor controllers, encoders, wheeled robots, or drivetrain design.
• Linear actuators, screw drives, scissor lifts, lifting columns, or other positioning mechanisms.
• Python, C/C++, microcontrollers, or basic feedback control.
• Building test fixtures, collecting experimental data, or comparing hardware designs.

About the company

Astera Institute is a private foundation supporting ambitious work in science and technology through grants, investments, and in-house research. Its research programs combine the pace and autonomy of a startup with the freedom to pursue difficult scientific questions.