Internship - Whole-body manipulation for quadrupedal robots

Company: Mitsubishi Electric Research Laboratories
Location: Cambridge
Posted on: February 16, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description MERL is seeking a highly motivated and qualified intern to work on the problem of loco-manipulation using legged robots. The objective of the project is to develop specific algorithms for simultaneous quadrupedal locomotion and prehensile manipulation of 3D objects placed outside the immediate workspace of the mobile robot. The ideal candidate would be a graduate student on a Ph.D. track with advanced knowledge of legged locomotion, grasp pose detection, machine vision and contact-aware object manipulation. The software developed within this project should be validated and fine-tuned on a physical legged robot during the internship. The successful candidate will work closely with MERL researchers to develop and implement novel algorithms, conduct experiments, publish research findings at a top-tier conference and assist with filing a potential associated patent. Start date and expected duration of the internship is flexible. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply with their updated CV and list of relevant publications. Required Specific Experience Experience with Isaac Lab, MuJoCo or other physics simulators Proficient with at least one programming language, preferably C++ or Python Experience in Machine Learning Prior experience with physical quadrupedal or bipedal robots The pay range for this internship position will be 6-8K per month. 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.

Keywords: Mitsubishi Electric Research Laboratories, East Providence , Internship - Whole-body manipulation for quadrupedal robots, Engineering , Cambridge, Rhode Island