Robotics Research Intern - Summer 2026

At ABB, we help industries outrun - leaner and cleaner. Here, progress is an expectation - for you, your team, and the world. As a global market leader, we’ll give you what you need to make it happen. It won’t always be easy, growing takes grit. But at ABB, you’ll never run alone. Run what runs the world.

This role sits within ABB's Robotics business, a leading global robotics company. We're entering an exciting new chapter as we’ve announced the plan for SoftBank Group to acquire ABB Robotics. SoftBank is a globally recognized technology group and investor/operator focused on AI, robotics, and next-generation computing.  By joining us now, you’ll be part of a pioneering team shaping the future of robotics—working alongside world-class experts in a fast-moving, innovation-driven environment.

This Position reports to:

As an intern, you will have the opportunity to gain practical experience through various projects. Each day, you will acquire knowledge by performing tasks as directed. You will also showcase your skills by supporting ABB’s operations and enhancing personal education/employment opportunities.

The work model for the role is onsite/hybrid in Auburn Hills, MI.

You will be mainly accountable for:

• Conduct literature survey and benchmarking to assess the state of art methods for a given problem

• Take part in the development of computer algorithms in perception, planning and control to enable creation of future autonomous robotics

• Debug, test and validate core algorithms in a mockup or full-blown setup

• Generate intellectual property and writing scientific publications

• Excellent skills in supporting technological change by fast learning

• Demonstrate use of creativity and innovation in creating new technology and solutions

• Living ABB’s core values of safety and integrity, which means taking responsibility for your own actions while caring for your colleagues, and the business.

Qualifications for the role:

• Currently enrolled in a graduate program (MS/PhD) in Computer Science or Electrical Engineering, or a related field in the United States.

• Experience in configuring physics, sensors (camera, LiDAR, ToF), and domain randomization in virtual environment

• Demonstrated experience in synthetic data generation and addressing the sim-to-real gap

• Understanding of robot kinematics and dynamics

• Strong background in reinforcement learning algorithms (PPO, GRPO, SAC, TD3, etc.), vision language action models, and world foundation models

• Strong expertise in using SKRL, RSL-RL, or SB3 libraries

• Experience with Nvidia Isaac Lab and Isaac Sim is a plus

• Proficiency in Python, OpenCV, Open3D, and deep learning frameworks (Pytorch, Tensorflow, JAX)

• Demonstrated research contributions in top-tier conferences and journals

• Intern must have reliable transportation to and from the worksite.

• Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without company sponsorship now and in the future.

• Utilize critical thinking skills to analyze complex situations and develop strategic solutions.

• Effectively organize and prioritize tasks to meet deadlines.

• Exhibit the capability to manage several tasks at once while maintaining high standards of quality.

• Collaborate with team members to convey ideas, share information, and provide updates on project progress.

Why ABB?  

What's in it for you

We want you to bring your full self to work—your ideas, your energy, your ambition. You’ll have the tools and freedom to grow your skills, shape your path, and take on challenges that matter. Here, your work creates impact you can see and feel, every day.

ABB is an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer for protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities at ABB.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to their- sex (gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation), marital status, citizenship, age,  race and ethnicity, inclusive of traits historically associated with race or ethnicity, including but not limited to hair texture and protective hairstyles, color, religious creed, national origin, pregnancy, physical or mental disability, genetic information, protected Veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal and state law.

For more information regarding your (EEO) rights as an applicant, please visit the following websites: https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2023-06/22-088_EEOC_KnowYourRights6.12ScreenRdr.pdf

As an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer for Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities, applicants may request to review the plan of a particular ABB facility between the hours of 9:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. EST Monday through Friday by contacting an ABB HR Representative at 1-888-694-7762.

Protected Veterans and Individuals with Disabilities may request a reasonable accommodation if you are unable or limited in your ability to use or access ABB's career site as a result of your disability. You may request reasonable accommodations by calling an ABB HR Representative at 1-888-694-7762 or by sending an email to [email protected]. Resumes and applications will not be accepted in this manner.

Internships at ABB within the United States are not eligible for company-sponsored medical benefits, 401(k) contributions, or paid time off. 

The hourly rate is determined by things such as the successful applicant’s qualifications, graduation year and experience. This position is expected to pay between $20 - $34 per hour.

We value people from different backgrounds. Could this be your story? Apply today or visit www.abb.com to read more about us and learn about the impact of our solutions across the globe.