Research Scientist Intern, Textile Actuators for Soft Robotics (PhD)

Reality Labs Research is seeking an intern with expertise in textile-based actuation systems to help advance the field of soft robotics.

In this role, you will explore textile-based design and novel control methods, focusing on the development of innovative textile actuators that can significantly enhance the performance and versatility of soft robotic systems.

You will be expected to embed actuation within textile hierarchies, leveraging smart fibers, yarns, or textile actuator mechanical design, and to demonstrate new control strategies in complex, real-world soft robotics applications.

As a research intern, your project will center on textile-based actuator design and will encompass a broad range of activities, including materials research, textile architecture and design, mechanical characterization (such as mechanical, electrical, and thermal analysis), actuation controls, and application demonstrations.

Your work will be at the intersection of smart fiber/textile and mechanical actuation research, requiring both hands-on experimentation and theoretical exploration.

You will have access to cutting-edge technology, prototyping tools, and testing facilities, and will collaborate closely with a diverse and interdisciplinary team of researchers and engineers.

The ideal candidate will have experience in embedding actuation within textile structures, a strong background in mechanical design and control strategies for soft robotics, and familiarity with materials research and textile architecture.

A collaborative mindset and enthusiasm for interdisciplinary research are essential, as you will be working alongside experts from various fields to push the boundaries of what is possible in textile-based robotics.

Internships at Reality Labs Research typically last between twelve (12) and twenty-four (24) weeks, with flexible start dates available throughout the year.

This is a unique opportunity to contribute to pioneering research at the intersection of textiles and robotics, and to make a tangible impact on the future of soft robotic technologies.

Qualifications: Currently has or is in the process of obtaining a Ph.D.

degree in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Textile Science, Electrical Engineering, Robotics, or relevant technical field Understands state of the art in textile-based actuation and advancing the technological frontier in an impactful and efficient way Experience with textile-based actuator prototyping, including pneumatics, hydraulics, smart fibers (SMA, LCE), DEAs, or relevant actuation mechanism Experience with developing and piloting mechanical characterization techniques for actuators Must obtain work authorization in the country of employment at the time of hire and maintain ongoing work authorization during employment Familiarity with soft robotic technologies and literature Expertise with 3D knitting and yarn structures Expertise with in actuation control methods for soft robotics applications Experience working and communicating cross functionally in a team environment Proven track record of achieving significant results as demonstrated by grants, fellowships, patents, as well as first-authored publications at leading workshops or conferences Intent to return to degree-program after the completion of the internship/co-op Availability for minimum 16 consecutive week internship Responsibilities: Plan and execute cutting edge research to advance textile-based actuation systems for soft robotics in the areas of mechanical design and actuation controls.

Collaborate with other researchers and engineers to prototype hardware and actuation controls solutions and run experiments to demonstrate advancements.

Communicate research agenda and findings to collaborators across disciplines.

Write and publish high quality scientific articles.