Brain Computer Interface R&D Intern - Brain proxy development

Summary

Axoft is building the most advanced and scalable platform for implantable brain–machine interfaces. Our mission is to enable minimally invasive, long-term stable, and ultrahigh-bandwidth communication with the brain—unlocking new therapies and treatments for neurological disorders and physical disabilities. We have bridged the gap between electronic and biological materials to create the softest, nanofabricated brain implants in the world. We are now expanding our interdisciplinary team with individuals who are passionate, results-driven, and committed to solving complex problems with creativity and scientific rigor.

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated R&D Intern to support brain proxy development and benching-based validation workflows. This position will ensure continuity of ongoing efforts while advancing experimental platforms used to evaluate surgical approaches and device performance.

This role provides hands-on experience at the intersection of neurotechnology, biomechanics, materials science, and device engineering, with a strong emphasis on independent project ownership and documentation.

• Location: Cambridge, MA (On-site)

• Duration: 6 months (longer duration preferred)

• Team: Preclinical

Key responsibilities

Brain Proxy Development & Validation:

• Maintain and further develop ex vivo and in vitro brain proxy models

·       Support simulation of surgical workflows using proxy systems

• Execute and iterate on bench testing protocols (e.g., implantation mechanics, fixation, connector integration)

• Assist with design validation experiments and performance testing

• Support data collection, organization, and basic analysis

• Generate structured documentation for protocols, test results, and iteration cycles

·       Identify gaps in current proxy models and propose improvements

R&D Operations Support

• Maintain organized workspace and experimental setup

• Perform routine inventory checks and ensure critical consumables are stocked

• Support preparation of materials, labeling, and equipment setup for ongoing experiments

• Help ensure a safe, clean, and compliant R&D environment

Collaboration

• Work closely with multidisciplinary teams across preclinical, hardware and product development

• Communicate results clearly to both technical and nontechnical team members

• Proactively identify bottlenecks or issues and contribute solutions to meet project milestones

Eligibility Requirements

• Open to students currently enrolled in or recently graduated from a B.S., M.S., or Ph.D. program in a relevant field

• Undergraduate students must be in their junior year or higher

• International students in U.S.-based programs must be CPT-eligible and have approval from their academic advisor

Qualifications

• Pursuing or recently completed a degree in Bioengineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field

• Solid foundation in materials science and mechanical design for biological applications (e.g. Brain phantoms)

• Experience with CAD or prototyping tools (e.g., Onshape, SolidWorks, Fusion 360, 3D printing)

• Strong attention to detail, organized workflow, and ability to work independently

• Eagerness to learn and contribute to real-world neurotechnology projects

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills

Preferred Qualifications

• Proficiency in data analysis and visualization (e.g., Python or similar tools)

• Hands-on experience in bench validation for biomechanics, neural engineering, or implantable medical devices

• Strong documentation skills for protocols, validation reports, and R&D feedback

What you’ll gain

• Hands-on experience in biomechanical testing and materials evaluation for neural interfaces

• Exposure to cutting-edge neurotechnology development in a fast-paced, interdisciplinary R&D environment

• Opportunities to collaborate directly with engineers and neuroscientists on real-world device validation

• Insight into the design, testing, and integration of implantable medical devices from prototyping to preclinical readiness

• Practical skills in experimental design, mechanical characterization, and biomaterial preparation

• The chance to contribute meaningfully to a technology bridging neuroscience and engineering with clinical impact

 Axoft’s ideal team members are people who seek fast-paced, evolving work with bright, thoughtful, and dedicated teammates. We seek and embrace challenges, and we are ultimately focused on improving the health and well-being of people. We believe in producing the highest quality work, and we hold ourselves and each other to high standards of integrity, accountability, growth, and trust.

Axoft provides equal opportunity in all our employment practices to all qualified employees and applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, disability, marital status, military status, genetic information or any other category protected by federal, state and local laws. This policy applies to all aspects of the employment relationship, including recruitment, hiring, compensation, promotion, transfer, disciplinary action, layoff, return from layoff, training and social, and recreational programs. All such employment decisions will be made without unlawfully discriminating on any prohibited basis.