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Robotics & Automation Engineering Intern

Frederick, MD

(ID: 2026-1745)


Axle is a bioscience and information technology company delivering advanced solutions in translational research, biomedical informatics, data science, as well as automation and robotics engineering to research centers and healthcare organizations worldwide. With deep expertise spanning biomedical science, software engineering, robotics, and program management, we develop and deploy innovative tools, automated systems, and data-driven approaches that enhance decision-making and accelerate scientific discovery. We partner with leading research institutions, including multiple institutes at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), as well as private sector pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, and other public and private organizations.

 

 

We are looking for a Robotics & Automation Engineering Intern who wants to build real machines that operate in scientific laboratories. 

This is not a simulation or purely software role — you will work on physical robotic systems that combine:

  • Robotic manipulators
  • Electronic control systems
  • Sensors and instrumentation
  • Mechanical tooling and fixtures
  • Software that coordinates complex experimental workflows

 

You will help design, build, and debug automation systems that run real experiments in real laboratories.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys building things that move, sense, and interact with the physical world.

 

What You’ll Work On

You may work on projects such as:

  • Designing and implementing robotic workflows for automated laboratory experiments
  • Integrating robotic arms with laboratory instruments and sensors
  • Developing embedded electronics and control systems for automation hardware
  • Writing software that coordinates robotic motion and experimental protocols
  • Designing mechanical fixtures, tooling, and robotic end-effectors
  • Building prototypes and testing new automation concepts
  • Debugging complex hardware/software interactions in real-world systems
  • Improving the reliability and performance of robotic laboratory workflows

Your work will directly contribute to building systems that scientists use to accelerate discovery.

 

Technologies You May Work With

Depending on the project, you may work with:

  • Robotic manipulators and motion systems
  • Python / C++ control software
  • Robotics frameworks (ROS or similar)
  • Microcontrollers and embedded systems
  • Electronic circuit design and hardware interfaces
  • Sensors, actuators, and motor control systems
  • Mechanical design and rapid prototyping (CAD, 3D printing, machining)
  • Laboratory automation devices and instrumentation

You will gain experience integrating electronics, mechanics, and software into real robotic systems.

 

Who Should Apply

We are looking for people who enjoy building complex hardware/software systems.

You might be a good fit if you have:

  • Built robots, drones, vehicles, or hardware systems
  • Designed electronics or embedded systems
  • Written software that controls physical devices
  • Worked on robotics teams, research labs, or hardware startups
  • Debugged systems where software, electronics, and mechanics interact

 

Requirements

Required

  • Pursuing a BS/MS degree in Robotics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Computer Engineering, or related field
  • Strong programming skills (Python, C++, or similar)
  • Experience working with hardware systems
  • Interest in robotics, automation, and physical systems
  • Comfortable building and debugging real machines

Bonus

  • Experience with robotic manipulators
  • Embedded systems or microcontroller development
  • Mechanical design or fabrication
  • Control systems or motion planning
  • Interest in chemistry, biology, or scientific research

 

What You’ll Gain

  • Hands-on experience building robotic systems used in scientific discovery
  • Exposure to real-world hardware development and system integration
  • Ownership of meaningful engineering problems
  • The opportunity to help develop technology that accelerates drug discovery

 

We value people who:

  • Build things
  • Debug problems others avoid
  • Enjoy working across hardware and software
  • Learn quickly and take ownership
  • Are excited about applying robotics to real-world scientific problems

 

Schedule

Dates: April 1, 2026 - October 30, 2026

Part time (20 hours/week) during school months (April, May, September, October)

Full time (40 hours/week) during summer months (June, July, August)


The diversity of Axle’s employees is a tremendous asset. We are firmly committed to providing equal opportunity in all aspects of employment and will not tolerate any illegal discrimination or harassment-based age, race, gender, religion, national origin, disability, marital status, covered veteran status, sexual orientation, status with respect to public assistance, and other characteristics protected under state, federal, or local law and to deter those who aid, abet, or induce discrimination or coerce others to discriminate.

Accessibility: If you need an accommodation as part of the employment process, please contact careers@axleinfo.com

Disclaimer: The above is meant to illustrate the general nature of work and level of effort being performed by individual’s assigned to this position or job. This is not restricted as a complete list of all skills, responsibilities, duties, and/or assignments required. Individuals may be required to perform duties outside of their position, job or responsibilities as needed.

This role has a market-competitive salary with an anticipated base compensation range listed below. Actual salaries will vary depending on a candidate’s experience, qualifications, skills, and location.

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Salary Range

$20 - $20 USD

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