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Robotics Phd Internship Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Data Scientist III

Charlottesville, VA · On-site

$98K - $171K/yr

GA-Intelligence is seeking a Statistics PhD to develop tracking algorithms that process data from ... Prior internships or collaborations with defense, aerospace, or robotics organizations * Experience ...

Robotics Phd Internship information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the robotics PhD internship position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Robotics PhD Intern, you need strong research skills in robotics, machine learning, and algorithm development, typically supported by current enrollment in a PhD program in computer science, engineering, or a related field. Proficiency in programming languages such as Python or C++, robotics simulation tools like ROS or Gazebo, and relevant technical coursework is often required. Excellent problem-solving abilities, effective communication, and the ability to work both independently and within multidisciplinary teams are valuable soft skills. These competencies are essential for contributing meaningful research, collaborating on innovative projects, and advancing state-of-the-art robotics solutions.

What types of projects and responsibilities can I expect during a robotics PhD internship?

As a Robotics PhD Intern, you'll typically work on cutting-edge research or development projects, such as designing new robotic algorithms, building and testing prototypes, or improving machine perception systems. Your day-to-day tasks may include coding, running simulations, analyzing data, conducting experiments, and reporting findings to your mentor or team. You'll often collaborate closely with experts from robotics, computer vision, and artificial intelligence disciplines, gaining insights from their practical and theoretical knowledge. This hands-on experience can enhance your research portfolio, provide networking opportunities, and help you apply academic learning to real-world challenges in robotics.

What is a robotics PhD internship?

A Robotics PhD Internship is a temporary research position designed for PhD students specializing in robotics, AI, machine learning, or related fields. Interns typically work on cutting-edge projects involving robot perception, motion planning, control systems, or human-robot interaction. These internships provide hands-on experience in applying theoretical research to real-world robotics challenges. They are often offered by tech companies, research labs, and universities, helping interns gain industry exposure and expand their professional network.

What are the most commonly searched types of Robotics Phd jobs in Virginia? The most popular types of Robotics Phd jobs in Virginia are:
What cities in Virginia are hiring for Robotics Phd Internship jobs? Cities in Virginia with the most Robotics Phd Internship job openings:
Infographic showing various Robotics Phd Internship job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 10% Internship, 67% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 87% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution.

Data Scientist III

General Atomics

Charlottesville, VA • On-site

$98K - $171K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 days ago


General Atomics rating

9.0

Company rating: 9.0 out of 10

Based on 39 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 72 rated aerospace companies


Job description

Job Summary
Are you a statistician who wants to see your Bayesian models protect national security?
GA-Intelligence is seeking a Statistics PhD to develop tracking algorithms that process data from heterogeneous sensors, fuse tracks across domains, and enable time-critical intelligence decisions. You'll apply statistical inference, state-space modeling, and Monte Carlo methods to multi-target tracking challenges that combine mathematical rigor with operational constraints.
Your work will span algorithm research, operational analysis, and production deployment-from deriving novel filters to validating performance on classified sensor data to partnering with engineers who implement your algorithms at scale.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
Algorithm Research and Development:
  • Guide the development of state-of-the-art tracking algorithms from existing tracking literature, ensuring technical correctness.
  • Develop statistical approaches to data association in multi-target, multi-sensor environments
  • Derive probabilistic models for target behavior and sensor measurement processes
  • Prototype algorithms in Python, MATLAB, or R and validate performance through Monte Carlo simulation
  • Apply modern statistical and computational methods to emerging tracking challenges

Operational Impact:
  • Collaborate with intelligence analysts to understand tracking requirements and operational constraints
  • Analyze tracking performance on real-world sensor data from classified systems
  • Quantify and communicate uncertainty, assumptions, and limitations to support operational decision-making
  • Translate operational gaps into tractable statistical problems
  • Partner with software engineers to transition algorithms from prototype to production

Research Leadership:
  • Publish internal research on tracking advances and algorithmic innovations
  • Present findings to technical staff, program managers, and government decision-makers, as well as external conferences
  • Contribute to proposal development and help shape future research directions
  • Mentor junior team members and future hires
  • Stay current with tracking research literature and evaluate applicability to operational problems
We recognize and appreciate the value and contributions of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences and welcome all qualified individuals to apply.
Job Qualifications
  • Typically requires a bachelor's degree, master's degree or PhD in data science, applied mathematics, statistics, computer science, or related technical/quantitative discipline from an accredited institution and progressive data science experience as follows; five or more years of experience with a bachelor's degree, three or more years of experience with a master's degree, or one or more years with a PhD. May substitute equivalent experience in lieu of education.
  • Strong preference for PhD in Statistics, Biostatistics, or closely related quantitative field
  • Dissertation research in Bayesian inference, state-space modeling, sequential estimation, or time series analysis
  • Strong foundations in statistical inference, probability theory, statistical modeling, and Bayesian methods
  • Deep understanding of state-space models, Kalman filtering, and sequential Monte Carlo methods
  • Expertise in stochastic processes and time series analysis
  • Proficiency in Python, MATLAB, R, or similar scientific computing languages
  • Experience implementing statistical algorithms and conducting simulation studies
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
  • Ability to communicate complex statistical concepts clearly to technical and non-technical audiences
  • Curiosity about operational applications and mission context
  • Collaborative mindset-works well with software engineers, intelligence analysts, and researchers
  • Ability to obtain and maintain a DoD security clearance is required.

Preferred Qualifications:
Domain Experience:
  • Familiarity with tracking, navigation, or multi-target systems
  • Experience with sensor fusion or data association problems
  • Knowledge of Extended Kalman Filters, Unscented Kalman Filters, particle filters, or IMM filters
  • Understanding of coordinate transformations and reference frames

Research Background:
  • Contributed to peer-reviewed publications, technical reports, or conference presentations
  • Experience with probabilistic programming frameworks
  • Dissertation work involving real-world sensor data or applied problems
  • Prior internships or collaborations with defense, aerospace, or robotics organizations
  • Experience writing technical proposals for government research projects
  • Experience leading technical projects or mentoring junior researchers

Technical Breadth:
  • Programming experience in one or more languages such as Python, C++, Java
  • High-performance computing or numerical optimization
  • Version control (Git) and collaborative development practices
  • Exposure to real-time systems or computational constraints

Why Join GA-Intelligence
Operational Impact: Your tracking algorithms will run in production systems supporting intelligence analysts and military personnel. Your work directly contributes to national security missions.
Technical Challenge: Multi-target tracking in adversarial environments with heterogeneous sensors is an unsolved research problem. You'll tackle cutting-edge algorithmic challenges that combine statistical rigor with operational constraints.
Collaborative Environment: Work alongside tracking mathematicians, software engineers, intelligence analysts, and mission experts. We value diverse perspectives and believe the best solutions emerge from multidisciplinary collaboration. Our team is committed to advancing the state-of-the-art in tracking while maintaining a culture of innovation, integrity, and teamwork.
Research Opportunities: Continue publishing research, present at conferences, and contribute to the tracking research community while delivering operational capabilities.
Charlottesville Location:
  • Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Park (30 minutes)
  • University town culture with intellectual community (University of Virginia)
  • Short average commute (no DC Beltway traffic)

Career Growth:
  • Build and lead tracking algorithm research team over time
  • Technical leadership opportunities
  • Shape strategic direction of tracking capabilities

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About General Atomics

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General Atomics (GA), and its affiliated companies, is one of the world's leading resources for high-technology systems development ranging from the nuclear fuel cycle to remotely piloted aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electric, electronic, wireless and laser technologies.

Industry

Space research administration

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

San Diego, CA, US

Year founded

1955