Lab Automation Internship

Adaptyv seeks a Lab Automation Intern in Lausanne to build and maintain automated liquid-handling systems for AI-driven biology experiments using Python and open-source robotics tools.

Adaptyv is developing an automated laboratory environment where AI agents can independently conduct biological experiments. This internship provides an opportunity to contribute to infrastructure that connects artificial intelligence with physical laboratory operations, supporting the company's mission to enable agentic science.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute automated liquid-handling procedures on robotic platforms such as Hamilton STAR, utilizing Python and open-source frameworks like PyLabRobot or PyHamilton.
• Maintain and operate work cells by loading experiments, replacing consumables, calibrating equipment, and resolving mechanical or software issues.
• Write Python code for instrument drivers, system integrations, and data management tools that interface with LabOS and leverage open-source libraries.
• Analyze instrument communication protocols by capturing network or serial traffic to enable software-based control.
• Test new experimental protocols and hardware, documenting outcomes and identifying irregularities.
• Create detailed documentation for protocols, workspace configurations, and troubleshooting steps to ensure reproducibility.
• Assist with physical setup tasks including device wiring, workspace organization, and preparation of plates and reagents for automated runs.

Requirements

• Currently pursuing or recently completed a Bachelor's or Master's degree in engineering, robotics, mechatronics, computer science, bioengineering, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated ability to build, disassemble, and troubleshoot across software, electronics, and mechanical systems.
• Proactive approach to identifying tasks and executing them independently without requiring constant direction.
• Strong Python programming skills, including experience writing drivers, structuring readable code, working with APIs and Git, and debugging third-party libraries.
• Familiarity with AI-assisted coding tools such as Claude Code to accelerate development workflows.
• Strong organizational habits with attention to detail and consistent documentation practices.
• Interest in biological experimentation and robotics, even without prior biology background.

Nice to have

• Hands-on maker experience such as 3D printing, CAD design, electronics, soldering, microcontroller programming (Arduino, Raspberry Pi, ESP32), machining, robotics, or lab automation.
• Experience using or contributing to open-source robotics or automation projects like PyLabRobot, PyHamilton, or Opentrons.

About the company

Adaptyv is a rapidly growing biotechnology company trusted by leading biopharmaceutical firms, frontier AI research labs, and techbio organizations. The company is pioneering agentic science, where AI models design novel proteins, generate hypotheses, and iteratively improve experimental outcomes.

• Opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge biotechnology research at the intersection of AI and physical science.
• Work in a fast-paced environment focused on advancing agentic science capabilities.