Product Design, Robotics Trainee - Axle Informatics

 Axle Informatics is a scientific research and information technology company that offers innovative computer services, informatics, and bioresearch solutions to research centers and healthcare organizations around the globe. With expertise in software engineering, bioinformatics, data science, molecular research, and program management, we focus on developing and applying technological tools and scientific techniques to empower the world of research. We work with some of the top research organizations and facilities in the country including multiple institutes at the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

 The National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS) works towards transforming the translational process so that new treatments and cures for disease can be delivered to patients faster. Translation is the process of turning observations in the laboratory, clinic and community into interventions that improve the health of individuals and the public. NCATS proposes to transform chemistry from an individualized craft to a modern, information-based science through A Specialized Platform for Innovative Research Exploration (ASPIRE). ASPIRE builds on the power of recent and emerging technological innovations. The convergence of technologies like laboratory automation, high throughput screening and machine learning, provides a new opportunity to break translational bottlenecks in chemistry and benefit science and health.

Internship Program at Axle Informatics/NCATS

 The recruiting team is driven by the passion to recognize emerging talent. Our program places the best students in positions that they will grow both technically and personally through their experience working closely with their Manager, Mentor, and team. We are dedicated to providing an experience that allows for the intern to experience life at NCATS by giving them projects that are critical to their team’s success. Instead of going on coffee runs and making copies, you’ll be seated at the table making critical decisions that will influence not only your team, but the overall achievement of NCATS’s mission.

About the team

 The Engineering team is in charge of helping NCATS develop automation products, optimize product design and validate the most compelling automation systems for our customers. For this purpose, the team is responsible for both designing, building, and deploying robotics and automated equipment, and to support current and future products and collecting data to enable their reliability and functionality.

 As a Product Design Intern at NCATS, you will be working towards devising novel solutions to the problems pertaining to the various levels of automation in aresearch organization laboratory. You will be working in collaboration with scientists and engineers to understand the task that needs to be automated and design a solution. The designing process will involve creating a conceptual 3D model using  software packages like SolidWorks, Autodesk, etc. It will be followed by fabricating prototypes, testing them, receiving feedbacks from the end users, and improving the design using additive and subtractive manufacturing techniques.

This will include (but is not limited to) the following:

• Contribute to the design and execution at the product and component level including hands on testing with real hardware.
• Creating a conceptual 3D model using software packages like SolidWorks, Autodesk, etc.
• Contribute to the manufacturing process by iteratively fabricating prototypes and testing them using additive and subtractive manufacturing.
• Contribute to process development and design improvement plans.

• Currently working towards a BS/MS or advanced degree in mechanical, mechatronics, robotics, physics, or equivalent.
• Hands-on experience debugging HW issues within a network of systems.
• Hands-on experience, previous internship and/or project experience is preferred.
• Strong knowledge of SolidWorks, Autodesk.
• Familiarity with additive manufacturing technologies like 3D printing.
• Knowledge of Design for Manufacturing principles preferred.
• Experience designing, developing, and controlling complex hardware and devices.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills.
• Major interest in solving complex and time critical problems