Co-op Researcher – Embodied AI & Robot Interaction

Huawei Technologies Canada Co., Ltd. • Markham, ON

23h

About The Position

Huawei Canada has an immediate co-op opening for a Researcher. The Human-Machine Interaction Lab unites global talents to redefine the relationship between humans and technology. Focused on innovation and user-centered design, the lab strives to advance human-computer interaction research. Our team includes researchers, engineers, and designers collaborating across disciplines to develop novel interactive systems, sensing technologies, wearable and IoT systems, human factors, computer vision, and multimodal interfaces. Through high-impact products and cutting-edge research, we aim to enhance user experiences and interactions with technology.

Assist in designing and prototyping robotic systems that integrate embodied AI capabilities – enabling robots to perceive, act, learn, and interact with humans and environments in real time. Design and implement the basic perception pipelines (e.g., object detection, gesture recognition, voice commands) and link them to robot actions using sensors (e.g., cameras, microphones, tactile sensors) and actuators. Develop simple interaction loops where robots respond to user input and adapt their behavior based on context – exploring ideas like proactive assistance, shared control, or learning from demonstration. Work with robot middleware (e.g., ROS/ROS2), simulation tools (e.g., Gazebo, Isaac Sim), and embedded systems to create cohesive embodied AI prototypes. Stay current with introductory embodied AI concepts (e.g., sensorimotor learning, reinforcement learning, multimodal interaction) and document findings, code, and design decisions.

Requirements

• Currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Robotics, Mechatronics, Electrical Engineering, or a related field, and registered with the school’s co‑op program.
• Basic programming skills in Python and/or C++.
• Foundational understanding of sensors (e.g., cameras, IMUs, microphones) and actuators (e.g., motors, servos).
• Strong problem‑solving skills, curiosity about how AI powers physical systems, and ability to work collaboratively in a fast‑paced research environment.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with LLM/VLA is considered as an asset.
• Interest in embodied AI, human‑robot interaction, or machine learning for robotics – prior coursework or small projects in these areas is an asset.
• Familiarity with basic control concepts (e.g., PID, feedback loops) or simulation tools is helpful but not required.

Responsibilities

• Assist in designing and prototyping robotic systems that integrate embodied AI capabilities – enabling robots to perceive, act, learn, and interact with humans and environments in real time.
• Design and implement the basic perception pipelines (e.g., object detection, gesture recognition, voice commands) and link them to robot actions using sensors (e.g., cameras, microphones, tactile sensors) and actuators.
• Develop simple interaction loops where robots respond to user input and adapt their behavior based on context – exploring ideas like proactive assistance, shared control, or learning from demonstration.
• Work with robot middleware (e.g., ROS/ROS2), simulation tools (e.g., Gazebo, Isaac Sim), and embedded systems to create cohesive embodied AI prototypes.
• Stay current with introductory embodied AI concepts (e.g., sensorimotor learning, reinforcement learning, multimodal interaction) and document findings, code, and design decisions.

Benefits

• The total target annual compensation for this position ranges from $58,000 to $104,000 depending on education, experience, and demonstrated expertise.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern