Intern in the Robotics and IoT Lab, Humanoid Robot

Location
EAC, Porz-Wahn, Germany

The Robotics & IoT Lab at the European Astronaut Centre focuses on advancing robotic systems and human–robot interaction in support of space exploration. Our work spans robotic autonomy, AI-supported decision-making, and XR-enabled control concepts.

This internship addresses humanoid robotics in environments relevant to exploration: locomotion on uneven terrain in our lunar analogue facility, operation under extreme conditions like the lunar south pole, and collaboration with humans in shared workspaces. A particular focus is exploring XR-based teleoperation and supervision of humanoid robots, including predictive simulation approaches that compensate for pronounced communication delays in off-Earth scenarios. Additionally, a key objective is to integrate modern AI methods into control and decision-making, enabling humanoid robots to adapt to unpredictable environments and support astronauts more effectively.

The project contributes to ESA's efforts to bridge human presence, robotic autonomy, and immersive control systems, strengthening Europe's expertise in humanoid robotics and human–robot teaming for future exploration missions.

Candidates interested are encouraged to visit the ESA website:   

Topic of the internship: Programming, Training, and Human–Robot Interaction with a Humanoid Robot for Exploration Tasks

You will work directly with a humanoid robot platform and support the development of control and interaction concepts in exploration-relevant scenarios.

Your activities will include:

• Programming locomotion and balance behaviours for humanoid robots on uneven terrain;
• Developing strategies for robot operation under constrained conditions (e.g. extreme lighting at the lunar south pole);
• Exploring XR-based teleoperation and supervisory control, enabling intuitive interfaces for astronauts and operators;
• Exploring how AI techniques such as reinforcement learning, imitation learning, and predictive models can be applied to locomotion, teleoperation, and human–robot interaction;
• Investigating predictive simulation and state estimation approaches to mitigate the effects of comms latency in off-Earth teleoperation;
• Contributing to methods for human–robot interaction in shared tasks, including safety and usability considerations, using AI and traditional approaches;
• Supporting simulation, benchmarking, and hardware validation of behaviours and interaction methods.

Learning objectives:

• Gain experience in humanoid robotics hardware, locomotion, and control stacks;
• Understand the challenges of XR-based teleoperation with comms latency in off-Earth contexts;
• Learn how to combine AI methods and predictive simulation for robust autonomy and remote operation;
• Develop insight into human–robot teaming and interaction design for exploration scenarios.

Result Orientation

Operational Efficiency

Fostering Cooperation

Relationship Management

Continuous Improvement

Forward Thinking

For more information, please refer to ESA Core Behavioural Competencies guidebook

You must be a university student, preferably studying at master's level. In addition, you must be able to prove that you will be enrolled at your University for the entire duration of the internship.

The working languages of the Agency are English and French. A good knowledge of one of these is required. Knowledge of another ESA Member State language is an asset.

During the interview, your motivation for applying to this role will be explored.

Essential background and skills:

• Studies in robotics, computer science, mechatronics, AI, or a related engineering field;
• Programming experience in current programming frameworks such as Python and C++;
• Understanding of control principles, algorithms, and 3D mathematics;
• Interest in humanoid robotics, teleoperation, and human–robot interaction;
• Experience with Git and collaborative coding.

Desirable:

• Familiarity with XR environments (VR/AR/MR) and their application to teleoperation;
• Experience with simulation environments (Isaac Sim, Omniverse, Gazebo, MuJoCo, or similar);
• Exposure to reinforcement learning, imitation learning, or predictive simulation approaches;
• Curiosity about space robotics, comms latency challenges, and immersive control concepts.

We are looking for a motivated intern who can apply both robotics fundamentals and creative approaches to XR-based teleoperation, human–robot interaction, and AI-supported control, helping us explore how humanoid robots can best support future off-Earth missions.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusiveness 
ESA is an equal opportunity employer, committed to achieving diversity within the workforce and creating an inclusive working environment. We therefore welcome applications from all qualified candidates irrespective of gender, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religious beliefs, age, disability or other characteristics. 

At the Agency we value diversity, and we welcome people with disabilities. Whenever possible, we seek to accommodate individuals with disabilities by providing the necessary support at the workplace. The Human Resources Department can also provide assistance during the recruitment process. If you would like to discuss this further, please contact us via email at 

Important Information and Disclaimer
During the recruitment process, the Agency may request applicants to undergo selection tests.

Applicants must be eligible to access information, technology, and hardware which is subject to European or US export control and sanctions regulations.

The information published on ESA's careers website regarding internship conditions is correct at the time of publication. It is not intended to be exhaustive and may not address all questions you would have. 

Nationality 

Please note that applications are only considered from nationals of one of the following States: Austria, Belgium, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.