JOB DESCRIPTION

Position Overview:

At Axoft

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.

About the Role

We are seeking a highly motivated R&D Intern to support brain proxy development and experimental testing that advances Axoft’s next-generation soft brain probes. This role provides hands-on experience at the intersection of neurotechnology, biomechanics, materials science, and device engineering.

In addition to proxy development, the intern will also support R&D operations, including maintenance of the R&D workspace, inventory checks, and preparation of materials used in experimental workflows.

• Location: Cambridge, MA (On-site)

• Duration: 6 months (longer duration preferred)

• Team: Preclinical

Key responsibilities:

Research and Development:

• Design and develop ex vivo and in vitro brain proxy models to support the development of surgical procedures for the world’s softest brain probe

• Assist in the simulation of surgical workflows using ex vivo and in vitro brain proxy model

• Support fixation, connector fitting, and thermal distribution performance testing

• Collaborate with device engineers and neuroscientists on protocol development

• Document results and contribute to design iteration feedback loops

R&D Operations Support:

• Maintain and organize the R&D workspace

• 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, engineering 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

• B.S. students must have authorization from their institution to participate in an internship

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

• Applicants must be enrolled at a U.S.-based academic institution

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., 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)

• Coursework or research experience in 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