About the role
This internship is suited to a post-A-level or early undergraduate student intending to study, or already studying, mechanical engineering, product design, mechatronics, robotics or a related subject. You will work alongside scientists and engineers to integrate your designs into a compact robotic laboratory system.
What you will do
- Design and prototype mechanical parts using CAD and 3D printing.
- Help specify parts for external manufacture as necessary, such as turned or machined metal components.
- Learn to use engineering analysis tools such as FEA and simulation software to prove designs before manufacture.
- Support bench testing, design iteration, and documentation of engineering decisions.
- Integrate your designs with electronics, PCBs, sensors and software-controlled test rigs.
- Work with science, electronics and software colleagues to turn workflow requirements into physical product constraints.
- Explore manufacturable product details that make a compact lab system easier to build, service, and use.
- Document designs, parts, suppliers and build/test processes in ERPNext.
What we are looking for
- Strong A-level background in relevant subjects; Maths and Physics essential, Product Design or Engineering desirable, Chemistry or Biology a bonus.
- Intent to study mechanical engineering, product design, mechatronics, robotics, or a related area to degree level or beyond.
- Practical CAD, prototyping, workshop, or build experience.
- A careful approach to tolerance, reliability, usability, and design for assembly.
- Curiosity about robotics, lab automation, and products that need to work reliably in the real world.
Skills you will gain
During this internship, you will gain hands-on experience in mechanical design, prototyping, and integration with electronics and software systems. We will support you in developing these skills and provide mentorship to help you grow as an engineer. You will also gain insight into the product development process in a startup environment, from concept to prototype to testing.
Internship Details
Location: South Cambridgeshire / Cambridge area.
Duration: 4–8 weeks over summer.
Pay: £450 per week, based on a 37.5-hour week.
Hours: Full-time or part-time by agreement, either on site or remote, as necessary.
Supervisor: Dr Stephen Starkie, Chartered Engineer.
Eligibility: You must have the right to work in the UK.
How to apply
Email [email protected] with a CV and covering email to show your interest and any relevant experience. Please include a brief description of something you have built, designed, fixed, tested or investigated.