Internship on Predictive dynamics of Soft robots
Job Title: internship on Predictive Dynamics for Flexible Grippers
Location: Remote Internship
Start Date: April 2025
About Us
We are a pioneering adaptive soft robotics startup based in the Netherlands, focused on creating robotics solutions that are both adaptable and safe for sensitive environments, including agri-food, biomedical, and other delicate industries. With a strong R&D foundation, we’ve developed a portfolio of adaptive soft robotics technologies that are designed to operate effectively and safely in complex settings where precision and care are essential. We’re now ready to commercialize these innovations, and we’re looking for a strategic co-founder to drive our growth, funding, and market expansion efforts
We are currently offering an exciting remote internship focused on predictive dynamics and computational modelling of flexible robotic grippers. This project bridges innovative soft robotics design with real-world applications, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to the future of adaptive robotic systems.
Project Overview
In both the biomedical and agro-food industries, there’s a growing demand for flexible robotic grippers capable of handling delicate and irregularly shaped objects. For example: 1- Gently picking ripe strawberries without causing damage in an automated harvesting system. 2- sisting in minimally invasive surgery, where soft, adaptive grippers safely interact with fragile tissues and organs
These applications require soft and adaptive robotic grippers that offer both compliance and precision. However, the design and control of soft grippers present significant challenges: 1- Their non-linear material behavior, 2- Complex dynamic interactions with various objects and 3- Unpredictable deformation under different loads and conditions.
This is where predictive dynamics comes into play. By simulating how these soft grippers behave under different conditions, we can anticipate performance, optimize designs, and reduce the need for costly physical prototyping. In this internship, you will use Finite Element Modelling (FEM) tools—primarily COMSOL Multiphysics—to explore and model the predictive dynamics of flexible robotic grippers.
What You’ll Be Working On
Developing predictive dynamic FEM models of soft robotic grippers
Simulating interactions between flexible grippers and soft/irregular objects
Exploring case studies in agro-food (e.g., handling soft fruits and vegetables) and biomedical (e.g., tissue manipulation) applications
Proposing design optimizations informed by predictive simulations
(Optional) Collaborating with the team on experimental validation and iterative improvements
Requirements & Expectations
We’re looking for an enthusiastic and self-driven student with:
✅ Experience in COMSOL Multiphysics, or similar FEM software (Abaqus, Ansys, etc.)
✅ A background in mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering, mechatronics, soft robotics, or a related field
✅ Interest in soft materials, robotic manipulation, and predictive dynamics
✅ Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
✅ Ability to work independently in a remote setting
✅ Availability to start as soon as possible
What We Offer
✔️ A remote internship with flexible working hours
✔️ Hands-on experience in the fields of soft robotics, predictive dynamics, and computational modelling
✔️ Opportunity to get to know more about the applications in both agro-food and biomedical robotics
✔️ Mentorship from experts in robotics and simulation
✔️ A collaborative environment where your work can make a real impact.
How to Apply ?
Ready to apply or want more information?
Contact:
Dr Zohreh Farmani: z.farmani@tudelft.nl
Dr. Ali Leylavi Shoushtari: ali.leylavishoushtari@wagrobotics.com
Join Wageningen Robotics and help shape the future of flexible robotic systems with predictive dynamics!