Robotics Institute Germany Internships (RIGI) positions at Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems Stuttgart

Max Planck Institute for Intelligent Systems (MPI-IS) is a participant in the Robotics Institute Germany (RIG), a collaborative network connecting leading robotics research centers across Germany. As part of RIG, MPI-IS has established an internship program for Bachelor’s and Master’s students, which provides a unique opportunity to perform cutting-edge research in robotics at our institute. The RIGI program is a key element of Robotics Institute Germany, an initiative by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) aimed to enhance international visibility, attract talent, and accelerate progress in robotics.

RIGI is currently recruiting its second generation of student interns.

RIGI is designed to support Bachelor’s and Master’s students who may be hindered by personal, financial, societal barriers, or geographical constraints, in pursuing their research careers. RIGI aims to promote diversity, equity, and inclusivity. We particularly welcome applicants from low- and middle-income countries, to nurture a more diverse scientific landscape. All aspects of the program are conducted in English.

Successful applicants will work with top-level scientists on research projects spanning various exciting fields, including:

• Biomechanics
• Control Systems and Optimization
• Haptics & Human-Computer Interaction
• Material Science
• Machine Learning
• Micro- & Nano-Robotics
• Robotics & Human-Robot Interaction
• Soft Robotics & Materials

What we offer

• Mentoring by our research groups and departments working on a defined research project at the Stuttgart site of MPI-IS. Please click here for a list of all internship projects.
• Paid internships for a maximum duration of 90 days (note: due to visa regulations you cannot extend your stay in the country beyond 90 days).

• Flexible start and end dates, July 2025 is the core month of our internship program and all interns must be present. Otherwise, the beginning and end dates may differ, depending on your academic schedule and visa processing times.
• A wide variety of scientific seminars, workshops, and social activities specifically designed to enhance their internship experience and support career development.
• Support by our coordination office members throughout your time as an intern.

Eligibility criteria

• You must be registered at a university as a Bachelor’s or Master’s student until the end date of your internship in 2025.
• You have a strong academic record.
• You have a background in a field relevant to the projects proposed (e.g. engineering, materials science, computer science, mathematics, physics, or any other related field).
• You have a good command of the English language.
• You can express your motivation and have strong reasons why your access to top-tier career development opportunities (such as internships) is constrained.

MPI-IS is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to excellence through diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, sex, disability, sexual orientation, national origin, religion, marital status, gender identity, or any other non-job-related criteria. We believe in the importance of a multicultural community of students, faculty, and staff who seek to advance our commitment to diversity and inclusion. MPI-IS strives to create and maintain working and learning environments that are inclusive, equitable, and welcoming.

You can apply at https://rigi-apply.tue.mpg.de/registration/rigi-2025 before 11:59 a.m. (11:59) CET on February 4, 2025. Finalists will be invited to online selection interviews that will take place in March 2025.

For any questions, please contact RIGI Coordination Team at rigi@is.mpg.de.