Robotics Intern, Teleoperation and Spatial Computing
Toyota Research Institute
Summary
Our goal is to revolutionize the field of robotic manipulation, enabling long-horizon dexterous behaviors to be efficiently taught, learned, and improved over time in diverse, real-world environments. Our team has deep cross-functional expertise across simulation, perception, controls, and machine learning, and we measure our success in terms of fundamental capabilities development, as well as research impact via open-source software and publications.
Job description
The Team
Our goal is to revolutionize the field of robotic manipulation, enabling long-horizon dexterous behaviors to be efficiently taught, learned, and improved over time in diverse, real-world environments. Our team has deep cross-functional expertise across simulation, perception, controls, and machine learning, and we measure our success in terms of fundamental capabilities development, as well as research impact via open-source software and publications.
The Internship
We are seeking a Robotics Intern passionate about teleoperation, VR/AR, and spatial computing to help advance TRI's next-generation telerobotics platform. You will design, implement, and test systems that enable humans to control and teach robots through immersive interfaces, contributing to TRI's mission of extending human capability through robotics.
Working closely with cross-functional teams in mechanical design, perception, controls, and UX, you'll develop real-time software prototypes that integrate robot hardware, motion capture, haptics, and 3D graphics—creating intuitive experiences that blend spatial computing with advanced robotic capabilities.
- Develop and refine VR/AR interfaces for robot control
- Build tools for 3D scene reconstruction
- Create interactions for physical AI such as visualizing and communicating policy intent
- Run user studies
- Contribute to open-source codebases and research publications
- Demonstrate prototypes that push the boundaries of human–robot interaction
Requirements
- Currently pursuing a degree in Robotics, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field
- Experience with Python, C++, or Swift for real-time systems and graphics programming
- Familiarity with Git, UNIX/Linux systems, and AI tools (Claude, Codex)
- Familiarity with VR/AR/XR frameworks (Unity, Unreal, visionOS or equivalent) and spatial input systems
- Understanding of robot kinematics, motion capture, and teleoperation control principles
- Exposure to 3D perception and visualization (depth images, point clouds, or gaussian splatting)
- Strong problem-solving and communication skills
- Willingness to collaborate and learn across disciplines
Benefits
- Medical, Dental & Vision
- Paid Time Off
- Holiday Pay
- Sick Time
Company overview
Toyota Research Institute (TRI) is a premier research and development subsidiary of Toyota Motor Corporation, established in 2016 with a $1 billion investment over five years. Headquartered in Los Altos, California with additional offices in Cambridge, Massachusetts, TRI focuses on advancing technologies in artificial intelligence, robotics, automated driving, and materials science. Led by CEO Dr. Gill Pratt, a renowned roboticist and former DARPA official, the institute employs 201-500 highly skilled researchers, over half of whom hold PhD degrees. TRI's mission is to amplify human ability and improve quality of life through technological innovation, with specific research areas including human-centered AI, energy and materials science, human interactive driving, and robotics. The institute collaborates with academic institutions and industry partners to develop cutting-edge solutions for mobility challenges, battery technology, and sustainable energy systems. TRI operates as an independent research entity within the Toyota ecosystem, maintaining a startup-like culture while benefiting from Toyota's substantial resources and global automotive expertise.