Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) · 1 day ago
Robotics Engineer
Ashburn, VA
Full-time
Onsite
Lead/Staff
$139K/yr - $225K/yr
8+ years expHoward Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) is a pioneering research center where scientists pursue fundamental questions in the life sciences. The Staff Robotics Engineer will design and build AI-driven robotic systems for high-throughput brain imaging and behavioral phenotyping, playing a leading role in advancing the FlyMAX system.
BiotechnologyClinical TrialsHealth CareMedicalMedical Device
Responsibilities
Lead the engineering architecture and development of next-generation FlyMAX systems, integrating robotics, computer vision, and AI-driven control to automate Drosophila experiments
Integrate, troubleshoot, and revise hardware and software systems—robotics, controls, imaging, and data pipelines—into reliable, high-performance research tools
Develop and implement algorithms for machine vision, adaptive control, and real-time learning to support fully autonomous experimentation
Document and share new designs, workflows, and analytical tools with the broader scientific community
Qualification
Required
Bachelor's degree in a relevant engineering field required
8+ years of experience developing complex robotic or mechatronic systems, including a strong background in systems engineering, and autonomous control
Demonstrated success delivering end-to-end robotic systems that combine hardware, software, and intelligent control
Expertise in applying AI and machine learning in robotics, including computer vision, adaptive control, real-time decision systems, and programming in Python and C++ for seamless integration with sensing and actuation hardware
Proactive approach with practical skills in the following areas: electrical wiring and controls, mechanical design and assembly, modeling and simulation
Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with enthusiasm for working alongside experimental biologists, engineers, and neuroscientists
Preferred
Master's or Ph.D. preferred
Benefits
Comprehensive health and welfare benefits
On-site childcare
Free gyms
Available on-campus housing
Social and dining spaces
Convenient shuttle bus service to Janelia from the Washington D.C. metro area
Exceptional health benefits
Retirement plans
Time off
A range of recognition and wellness programs
Company
Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI)
Founded in 1953, HHMI invests in scientists at all career stages who make discoveries that advance human health and our fundamental understanding of biology.
1001-5000 employees
H1B Sponsorship
Howard Hughes Medical Institute (HHMI) has a track record of offering H1B sponsorships. Please note that this does not
guarantee sponsorship for this specific role. Below presents additional info for your
reference. (Data Powered by US Department of Labor)
Distribution of Different Job Fields Receiving Sponsorship
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Trends of Total Sponsorships
2025 (135)
2024 (133)
2023 (133)
2022 (160)
2021 (133)
2020 (127)
Funding
Current Stage
Late StageTotal Funding
$1MKey Investors
Salt Lake Community College
2017-08-31Grant· $1M
Leadership Team
Boyana Konforti
Director of Scientific Strategy & Development
Recent News
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