PhD Autonomy Engineer Intern - Computer Vision / Deep Learning Summer 2027

Skydio; Zürich; On-site; CHF 18,000 - 28,000; Part time

Job summary

Skydio is a US drone company pioneering autonomous flight. We are seeking a Research Intern to help architect and implement computer vision and autonomy algorithms powering our drones.

You will work with a world-class team and own a project that advances capabilities and product readiness. If you have a strong foundation in math, theory, and software development and you are interested in contributing to the next generation of autonomy algorithms in real products, we would love to hear from you.

Qualifications

• Proficiency in C++ and/or Python with exposure to PyTorch.
• Interest or experience in computer vision, deep learning, motion planning, or related fields.
• Strong software engineering fundamentals and ability to write clean, maintainable code.
• Thrives in fast-paced, collaborative team environments.

Responsibilities

• Architect and implement computer vision and autonomy algorithms for drones.
• Collaborate with core software development team on owned projects.
• Prototype and assess feasibility of new approaches for faster R&D cycles.
• Characterize performance of core software and hardware components.

Skills

C++

Python

PyTorch

Computer vision

Deep learning

Motion planning

Dynamics and controls

3D graphics

Distributed systems

Tools/infrastructure

Job description

Skydio is the leading US drone company and the world leader in autonomous flight, the key technology for the future of drones and aerial mobility. The Skydio team combines deep expertise in artificial intelligence, best‑in‑class hardware and software product development, operational excellence, and customer obsession to empower a broader, more diverse audience of drone users, from utility inspectors to first responders, soldiers in battlefield scenarios, and beyond.

About the role:

The core of our system is the computer vision algorithms that allow drones to understand the world around them. You will architect and implement the algorithms that run on every drone powered by Skydio as part of a world class computer vision and deep learning team with researchers who have pushed the state of the art in academia and industry.

As a Research Intern, you will be paired up with one or more members of our core software development team, assuming direct ownership of a project that meaningfully advances the capabilities of our team and products.

If you have a strong foundation in math, theory, and software development and you are interested in directly contributing to the development of the next generation of autonomy algorithms and pushing them into real products, we would love to hear from you.

How you'll make an impact:

• Enable rapid research and development of intelligent systems with advanced autonomous capabilities beyond anything that exists in the world today
• Research, prototype, and generally assess the feasibility of new approaches
• Imagine and then implement new features that unlock magic for our users
• Characterize and quantify the performance of core components of the software and hardware stack

What makes you a strong fit:

• High proficiency in C++ and/or Python and PyTorch
• Demonstrated enthusiasm for one or more of the following: computer vision, deep learning, motion planning, dynamics and controls, 3D graphics, distributed systems, and tools/infrastructure
• Solid software engineering foundation and a commitment to writing clean, well‑architected code
• Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, collaborative, small team environment

At Skydio we believe that diversity drives innovation. We have created a multidisciplinary environment that embraces the power of diverse perspectives to create elegant solutions for complex problems. We are committed to growing our network of people, programs, and resources to nurture an inclusive culture.

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, or other characteristics protected by federal, state or local anti-discrimination laws.

For positions located in the United States of America, Skydio, Inc. uses E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. To learn more about E-Verify, including your rights and responsibilities, please visit https://www.e-verify.gov/