About the opportunity

AI Makerspace is looking for a hands-on, self-starting Intern to join our team!

We are a small but ambitious R&D lab within the university working on cutting-edge projects in AI and linking with other domains. We need someone like you to work on some of our projects, while being linked with the Lab.

This internship offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience working with advanced equipment like autonomous vehicles, robotic arms, and computer vision systems, while also contributing to developing groundbreaking solutions with our research projects. This is a relatively flexible opportunity which can be co-shaped with the student and can be a thesis assignment.

About the SWARM project

This internship project addresses the critical challenge of enabling autonomous robots to safely navigate indoor environments shared with humans. As robots increasingly enter workplaces, hospitals, and public spaces, their ability to move efficiently while ensuring human safety becomes paramount. The intern will develop and evaluate navigation algorithms that integrate real-time perception, path planning, and human-aware decision-making for indoor mobile robots.

The project focuses on two core capabilities: reliable point-to-point navigation in complex indoor environments and dynamic adaptation to human presence. Using a combination of computer vision, sensor fusion, and machine learning techniques, the intern will implement navigation systems that can understand spatial layouts, recognise and predict human movement patterns, and make safety-conscious navigation decisions.

Working with simulation environments and potentially real robotic platforms, the intern will explore state-of-the-art approaches, including occupancy mapping, semantic scene understanding, and social navigation frameworks. The project emphasises practical implementation while maintaining rigorous safety standards, preparing the intern for real-world robotics challenges.

This internship provides hands-on experience with ROS (Robot Operating System), deep learning frameworks, and safety-critical system design. The intern will gain valuable skills in AI/robotics integration while contributing to the advancement of human-robot coexistence in shared spaces.

Your responsibility

Your specific responsibilities will depend on your background, experience, and interests. Examples of key tasks include:

• Hands-on development, working directly with cutting-edge technology.
• Project contribution, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams on applied AI initiatives.
• Support and contribute to the AI makerspace environment.
• Documentation, helping with document processes, workflows, and project outcomes.

What we offer

• Financial compensation.
• Support from experienced BUas researchers and engineers, providing mentorship and guidance.
• A collaborative environment where you will support and learn.
• An exciting workplace at the BUas campus with high-end hardware and software.

Qualification requirements

• You must receive ECTS for doing an internship or a thesis project as part of your study programme.
• You are enrolled in a bachelor’s or master’s programme (WO, HBO, or equivalent).
• Preferred backgrounds include, but are not limited to: Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, or a related technical field.
• Strong problem-solving skills and hands-on technical abilities.
• A self-starter mindset – comfortable working independently and taking initiative.
• Excellent communication skills and ability to collaborate across diverse teams.
• Enthusiasm for AI, robotics, and maker culture.

Practical details

Timeline: Available from September 2026 onwards (start/end dates negotiable)
Location: AI Makerspace / Cradle Lab, Breda University of Applied Sciences campus

How to apply?

Please send your CV and a brief motivation letter describing why you are excited about this opportunity to: Carlos Santos (santos.c@buas.nl)