Internship - Robot Control Software Development Intern

MERL is seeking a highly motivated and qualified intern to contribute to the development of our robot control software stack. The focus of the internship will be on designing and implementing ROS2 modules to build efficient and robust drivers for Mitsubishi Electric robot arms. The ideal candidate is a Master's or Ph.D. student with a strong background in software engineering and a solid understanding of robot control and communication protocols.The internship will involve implementing ROS2 drivers and control functionalities that form the foundational control layer for multiple robotic platforms. Prior experience with controlling robotic manipulators equipped with cameras, tactile sensors, and force/torque sensor, as well as an understanding of both force and position control, is required. Familiarity with machine learning for robotics and algorithm design is desirable. The successful candidate will work closely with MERL researchers and contribute to ongoing research and development efforts. Interested applicants should submit an updated CV and any relevant publications.

Required Specific Experience

• Proficiency in ROS2, ROS and Python
• Experience with software architecture design
• Experience with physical robot platforms and sensors (vision, tactile, force/torque).

Internship Details

• Duration: ~3 months
• Start Date: January 2026
• Goal: Develop efficient and robust robot control drivers

Mitsubishi Electric Research Labs, Inc. "MERL" provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability or genetics. In addition to federal law requirements, MERL complies with applicable state and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location in which the company has facilities. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

MERL expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status. Improper interference with the ability of MERL's employees to perform their job duties may result in discipline up to and including discharge.

Working at MERL requires full authorization to work in the U.S and access to technology, software and other information that is subject to governmental access control restrictions, due to export controls. Employment is conditioned on continued full authorization to work in the U.S and the availability of government authorization for the release of these items, which might include without limitation, obtaining an export license or other documentation. MERL may delay commencement of employment, rescind an offer of employment, terminate employment, and/or modify job responsibilities, compensation, benefits, and/or access to MERL facilities and information systems, as MERL deems appropriate, to ensure practical compliance with applicable employment law and government access control restrictions.

In addition to base pay, interns receive a relocation stipend, covered travel to and from MERL, and a monthly Charlie Card for local commuting. Interns are invited to participate in weekly social gatherings and professional development opportunities, including research talks by both internal and external speakers. Interns who meet the 90-day waiting period are also eligible for health insurance coverage. MERL provides immigration support for qualified candidates as needed. Employment is considered "at-will," and the Company reserves the right to modify base salary or any other compensation program at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, departmental or Company performance, and market conditions.