ABOUT THE INTERNSHIP
Interested in engineering, computer science, and real-world robotics applications? Join the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) for a summer internship focused on advancing our Smart Table robotic plant imaging system. This internship offers hands-on experience integrating coding, robotics, and engineering design while contributing to applied technology development.
WHAT YOU’LL DO
- Develop and refine system features using Python
- Analyze and interpret data generated by robotic imaging systems
- Design and fabricate components, including 3D‑printed parts
- Conduct experiments and support robotic system testing
- Apply engineering design principles throughout project activities
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN
- Practical skills in robotics, coding, and data analytics
- Hands-on experience with engineering design and prototyping
- Exposure to real-world applications of automation in research settings
- Professional skills in problem‑solving, teamwork, and technical communication
PROGRAM DETAILS
- Duration: 8 weeks
- Schedule: Approximately 28 hours per week, up to a maximum of 224 hours
- Compensation: $15 per hour / $3,360 total stipend
- Location: In-person at IALR (Danville, VA)
OTHER DETAILS
IALR reserves the right to modify and/or cancel the internship program. Modifications may include a shortened timeframe with a pro‑rated adjustment to compensation, alternate assignments, or adjustments to work-site location. Internships are primarily in-person. The IALR Internship Program does not provide local housing or a housing allowance.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS- To be considered for the 2026 IALR Internship Program, applicants must meet ONE of the following criteria:
- Be a high school graduate (may be graduating Spring 2026) with plans to attend college in Fall 2026
- Be a current undergraduate or graduate student
- Be a recent college graduate (within the past 12 months)
INTERNSHIP TIMELINE- Application Deadline: March 20, 2026 at 4:00 PM (EST)
- Candidate Interviews (Microsoft Teams): April 16–17, 2026
- Intern Selection Notifications: April 30, 2026
Please note: IALR internships are highly competitive, and not all applicants will be invited to interview.
MANDATORY PROGRAM DATES- Intern Orientation (required for all interns): June 1, 2026 OR June 8, 2026
- Mandatory Internship Luncheon and Final Presentations: July 24, 2026
TIME COMMITMENT REQUIREMENTS- Interns must complete a total of 224 hours by August 10, 2026
- The internship is designed as an 8-week program served in consecutive weeks
- Interns are permitted ONE unpaid week off during the program
- Except for this one week, interns are expected to work continuously
LETTER OF RECOMMENDATION
All applicants must submit ONE letter of recommendation as part of the application process. The letter will be reviewed in addition to application responses. The letter must be received by March 20, 2026.
SUBMISSION OPTIONS
Letters of recommendation can be provided by email or address. The details are below:
Mail:
ATTN: HR – Internship
Institute for Advanced Learning and Research
150 Slayton Avenue
Danville, VA 24540
LETTER REQUIREMENTS
The letter must include:
- The reference’s relationship to the applicant
- Length of time the reference has known the applicant
- Comments on the applicant’s knowledge, skills, and abilities relevant to the internship
- Any concerns that may prevent successful completion of the internship