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Research Scientist Intern, Dexterous Manipulation Sensing (PhD)

4 days ago Redmond, WA

Meta's mission is to give people the power to build community and bring the world closer together. Through our family of apps and services, we're building a different kind of company that connects billions of people around the world, gives them ways to share what matters most to them, and helps bring people closer together. Whether we're creating new products or helping a small business expand its reach, people at Meta are builders at heart. Our global teams are constantly iterating, solving problems, and working together to empower people around the world to build community and connect in meaningful ways. Together, we can help people build stronger communities - we're just getting started.Meta Reality Labs is dedicated to exploring and developing novel technologies for next-generation human-computer interaction. Our team is focused on advancing touch-based tactile sensing, including fingertip and large-area skin-based area sensor solutions. As an intern, you will contribute to the development and integration of innovative tactile sensing systems, working at the intersection of hardware, materials, and system-level design.Our internships are twelve (12) to twenty-four (24) weeks long and we have various start dates throughout the year.

Research Scientist Intern, Dexterous Manipulation Sensing (PhD) Responsibilities:

  • Propose novel tactile sensing system architectures to achieve high performance and high durability for Robotics
  • Develop tactile sensing systems and build prototypes
  • Characterize the tactile sensing system and experiment with practical use cases
  • Collaboration with and support of other researchers across various disciplines
  • Communication of research agenda, progress and results
Minimum Qualifications:
  • Currently has, or is in the process of obtaining, a PhD in Optical Science, Materials Science, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or a related field
  • Experience in one or more types of tactile sensors such as optical, resistive, capacitive, or piezoelectric
  • Experience in system-level design and prototyping of tactile sensing solutions
  • Proven analytical and computational skills
  • Must obtain work authorization in the country of employment at the time of hire and maintain ongoing work authorization during employment
Preferred Qualifications:
  • Integration of tactile sensors in robotic platforms, such as robotic hands
  • Use of tactile sensors in dexterous manipulation systems and enhancing manipulation algorithms
  • Programming/scripting for simulation automation (Python, MATLAB, etc.)
  • Experience with sensor and imaging performance analysis and data interpretation
  • Experience with the full simulation and modeling pipeline to design tactile sensors
  • Proven track record of interdisciplinary research in either optics, mechanics, and materials, as demonstrated by publications, grants, or fellowships
  • Intent to return to the degree program after the completion of the internship/co-op
About Meta:

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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.

Meta is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, gender expression, transgender status, sexual stereotypes, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or other applicable legally protected characteristics. We also consider qualified applicants with criminal histories, consistent with applicable federal, state and local law. Meta participates in the E-Verify program in certain locations, as required by law. Please note that Meta may leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies in connection with applications for employment.

Meta is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for candidates with disabilities in our recruiting process. If you need any assistance or accommodations due to a disability, please let us know at accommodations-ext@fb.com.

$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.

Client-provided location(s): Redmond, WA
Job ID: a1KDp00000CZL2tMAH
Employment Type: INTERN
Posted: 2026-01-16T19:42:27

Perks and Benefits

  • Health and Wellness

    • Health Insurance
    • Health Reimbursement Account
    • Dental Insurance
    • Vision Insurance
    • Life Insurance
    • Short-Term Disability
    • Long-Term Disability
    • FSA
    • FSA With Employer Contribution
    • HSA
    • HSA With Employer Contribution
    • Fitness Subsidies
    • On-Site Gym
    • Mental Health Benefits
  • Parental Benefits

    • Birth Parent or Maternity Leave
    • Non-Birth Parent or Paternity Leave
    • Fertility Benefits
    • Adoption Assistance Program
    • Family Support Resources
  • Work Flexibility

    • Flexible Work Hours
    • Remote Work Opportunities
    • Hybrid Work Opportunities
  • Office Life and Perks

    • Commuter Benefits Program
    • Casual Dress
    • Happy Hours
    • Snacks
    • Some Meals Provided
    • Company Outings
    • On-Site Cafeteria
    • Holiday Events
  • Vacation and Time Off

    • Paid Vacation
    • Unlimited Paid Time Off
    • Paid Holidays
    • Personal/Sick Days
    • Sabbatical
    • Leave of Absence
  • Financial and Retirement

    • 401(K)
    • 401(K) With Company Matching
    • Pension
    • Company Equity
    • Performance Bonus
    • Relocation Assistance
    • Financial Counseling
  • Professional Development

    • Learning and Development Stipend
    • Promote From Within
    • Mentor Program
    • Shadowing Opportunities
    • Access to Online Courses
    • Lunch and Learns
    • Internship Program
  • Diversity and Inclusion

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