Research Application Intern Summer 2027 Santa Clara CA

Nissan USA; Santa Clara (CA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Nissan USA in Santa Clara, CA is seeking a Research Application Intern to join our robotics research team and translate advanced robotics concepts into real-world manufacturing solutions.

You will collaborate with researchers and engineers across disciplines, gaining hands‑on robotics development, planning, programming, testing, and validating robotic systems for production applications.

Qualifications

• Must be currently enrolled in a Master's degree program in Robotics, Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related field.
• Hands-on robotics experience through coursework, research, or projects.
• Experience with robotics hardware and software systems.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Self-motivated and able to work with minimal supervision.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; collaborative mindset.
• GPA 3.0 or above; transcript may be requested.
• Ability to work onsite in Santa Clara, CA.

Responsibilities

• Collaborate with researchers and business partners to understand operational challenges and define project scope.
• Plan and organize project activities and deliverables throughout the internship.
• Program and configure robotic systems for manufacturing-related applications.
• Test and evaluate robotic capabilities in real-world scenarios.
• Analyze results and propose system improvements and future development.
• Support the transition of research concepts into production-focused applications.

Skills

Robotics hands-on

Problem solving

Team collaboration

Communication skills

Self-motivated

Analytical mindset

Education

Master's degree in Robotics

Tools

ROS

Job description

Location(s): Santa Clara, CA
Job Schedule: Full-time, 12-week program
Degree Level: Master's Level Students
Preferred Degree: Robotics, Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or related field

Shape the Future of Mobility at Nissan: Launch Your Career, Drive Innovation

We are currently looking for a Research Application Intern to join our team in Santa Clara, CA. This internship offers a unique opportunity to work in a research-focused environment where advanced technologies are translated into real-world applications. You will collaborate with researchers, engineers, and business stakeholders to explore how emerging robotics technologies can be deployed within Nissan manufacturing operations.

This role is ideal for students who enjoy hands‑on robotics development, problem-solving, and bridging the gap between research concepts and practical implementation. You'll gain exposure to the full project lifecycle, from understanding business challenges and defining project requirements to programming, testing, and validating robotic solutions.

A Day in the Life

• Collaborate with research teams and business partners to understand operational challenges and define project scope.
• Help plan and organize project activities and deliverables throughout the internship.
• Program and configure robotic systems to support manufacturing‑related applications.
• Test and evaluate robotic capabilities, performance, and functionality in real‑world scenarios.
• Analyze results and provide recommendations for system improvements and future development.
• Work closely with multidisciplinary teams to support the transition of research concepts into production‑focused applications.

Who We're Looking For

Required

• Must be currently enrolled in a Master's degree program in Robotics, Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, or a related field.
• Hands‑on experience with robotics through academic coursework, research, or personal projects.
• Experience working with both robotics hardware and software systems.
• Strong problem‑solving and analytical skills.
• Self‑motivated and capable of working with minimal supervision.
• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, team‑oriented environment.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Willingness to learn new technologies and contribute to innovative projects.
• GPA of 3.0 or above (Candidates will be required to provide an official or unofficial transcript during the application process for verification.)
• Ability to perform work onsite in Santa Clara, CA.

Preferred

• Experience programming robotic systems or autonomous platforms.
• Familiarity with robotics frameworks such as ROS or similar development environments.
• Experience with robotic manipulation, automation, controls, or perception systems.
• Participation in robotics competitions, research projects, or laboratory work.
• Interest in applying advanced technologies within manufacturing and industrial environments.

What You'll Look Forward to at Nissan

Connection and Collaboration: We offer Business Synergy Teams (ERGs) and opportunities for employees to strengthen their relationships and connect with colleagues from diverse backgrounds, fostering a culture of belonging.

Professional Training and Development: Expand your knowledge and skills through Nissan's rich innovation offerings, seminars, learning platforms, and leadership development programs.

Nissan is committed to a drug‑free workplace. All employment is contingent upon the successful completion of drug and background screenings in accordance with Nissan policies and in compliance with federal, state, and local laws, including the California Fair Chance Act and the Los Angeles County Fair Chance Ordinance. Nissan will consider qualified candidates with arrest or conviction records for employment in a manner consistent with these laws.

It is Nissan’s policy to provide Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of race, gender, military status, disability, or any other status protected by law. Candidates for this position must be legally authorized to work in the United States and will be required to provide proof of employment eligibility at the time of hire; Nissan uses E-Verify to validate employment eligibility.

NISSAN FOR EVERYONE

People are our most valuable assets, and Nissan seeks to maximize the power of each individual member of our team. When everyone belongs, the power of NISSAN is undeniable. Nissan aims to improve business results through a workplace and business that meets the needs of our employees and customer base.

Nissan is committed to creating a culture where everyone belongs and employees, customers, and partners feel respected, valued, and heard. We have Business Synergy Teams (BSTs) across the Americas that are open to all employees and seek to connect employees through common interests and foster a company culture where all employees feel supported and included.

Nissan also values inclusion in our business as we respect and recognize the diversity of our customer base and the communities where we do business. We are committed to procuring innovative goods and services, retailing our products, and communicating from a position that will help us continue to offer our customers competitively designed, market‑driven products.

Join us as we carry our commitment to our employees and customers into the future.

Santa Clara California United States of America