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.

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

Minimum 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

Preferred Qualifications

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

For those who live in or expect to work from California if hired for this position, please click here for additional information.

About Meta

Meta builds technologies that help people connect, find communities, and grow businesses. When Facebook launched in 2004, it changed the way people connect. Apps like Messenger, Instagram and WhatsApp further empowered billions around the world. Now, Meta is moving beyond 2D screens toward immersive experiences like augmented and virtual reality to help build the next evolution in social technology. People who choose to build their careers by building with us at Meta help shape a future that will take us beyond what digital connection makes possible today—beyond the constraints of screens, the limits of distance, and even the rules of physics.

$7,313/month to $12,134/month + benefits

Individual compensation is determined by skills, qualifications, experience, and location. Compensation details listed in this posting reflect the base hourly rate, monthly rate, or annual salary only, and do not include bonus, equity or sales incentives, if applicable. In addition to base compensation, Meta offers benefits. Learn more about benefits at Meta.

Equal Employment Opportunity

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Research Scientist Intern

Textile Actuators for Soft Robotics, PhD

Meta

Compensation Overview