Rethink recruit
About Medra
At Medra, we're building an
autonomous robotic platform
that enables scientists to automate complex laboratory protocols and achieve continuous science with unmatched precision and scalability. By integrating advancements in
AI, robotics, computer vision, and natural language processing , we are transforming how science is done-tackling humanity's greatest challenges, from curing disease to advancing climate technology and beyond. Our goal is to unlock the
next biggest leap in scientific discovery , enabling experimental data generation no longer constrained by human pace or the rigidity of traditional automation. Our
Continuous Science Platform
executes lab protocols like a scientist would, constantly learning and improving to optimize workflows.
We know this mission is ambitious-but with a team of ambitious, ownership-driven people, it's achievable.
The Team We're a small, passionate team of engineers from Tesla, Amazon, SpaceX, Neuralink, and more. We move fast, collaborate deeply, and balance intensity with camaraderie-whether that's
debating robotics tradeoffs, skiing, cooking, or go-karting together.
We love sharing knowledge and tackling hard problems as a group.
The Role
As our first
Robotics Software Engineer , you'll design and implement core robotics solutions that directly power Medra's lab automation platform. This is a hands-on role where you'll move between algorithm development, hardware integration, and real-world deployment at customer labs.
What You'll Do Develop robotic solutions to manipulate and control biology tools designed for human use. Design and implement
motion planning algorithms
for collision-free operation in complex, dynamic environments. Apply
computer vision
to interact with lab consumables and equipment. Integrate, test, and debug robotics software in both simulation and real hardware. Collaborate with partner scientists to identify lab workflow challenges and translate them into robotic solutions. Ensure robustness and scalability in deployed systems, while identifying opportunities for simplification. What We're Looking For
4+ years of experience designing and building robotics algorithms. Proficiency in
Python
and familiarity with robotic arm manipulators. Hands-on experience with
motion planning, trajectory optimization, kinematics/dynamics, or control. Strong grasp of software engineering tools and production best practices. A hacker's mindset-quickly iterating to practical solutions. Flexibility to wear multiple hats and thrive in a fast-moving startup environment. BS/MS/PhD in Computer Science, Mechanical/Electrical/Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent experience. Bonus Points
Experience with robotic simulation frameworks (PyBullet, MuJoCo). Prior work with robotics in labs or manufacturing. Familiarity with mechanical design (Solidworks, etc.). Knowledge of software communication protocols (ZMQ, Redis, gRPC). Contributions to shipped hardware/software products. Hands-on robotics manipulation experience. Tech Stack Python | Motion Planning | Computer Vision | PyBullet/MuJoCo | Robotics Manipulators
Why Join Medra
Mission-driven impact : Help scientists accelerate discovery in health, climate, and beyond. Cutting-edge robotics : Build AI-driven lab automation at the frontier of science. High ownership : Shape foundational systems at an early-stage startup. Collaborative culture : Work with a passionate, tight-knit team. Compensation & Benefits
Competitive salary & equity 401(k) Medical, dental, and vision insurance Relocation benefits available Unlimited PTO Weekday dinners provided
Location This role is
100% on-site in San Francisco . We do not offer hybrid options. Relocation support is available.
Join Us If you're excited to build robotic systems that transform how science is done, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and help Medra usher in the era of continuous science.
autonomous robotic platform
that enables scientists to automate complex laboratory protocols and achieve continuous science with unmatched precision and scalability. By integrating advancements in
AI, robotics, computer vision, and natural language processing , we are transforming how science is done-tackling humanity's greatest challenges, from curing disease to advancing climate technology and beyond. Our goal is to unlock the
next biggest leap in scientific discovery , enabling experimental data generation no longer constrained by human pace or the rigidity of traditional automation. Our
Continuous Science Platform
executes lab protocols like a scientist would, constantly learning and improving to optimize workflows.
We know this mission is ambitious-but with a team of ambitious, ownership-driven people, it's achievable.
The Team We're a small, passionate team of engineers from Tesla, Amazon, SpaceX, Neuralink, and more. We move fast, collaborate deeply, and balance intensity with camaraderie-whether that's
debating robotics tradeoffs, skiing, cooking, or go-karting together.
We love sharing knowledge and tackling hard problems as a group.
The Role
As our first
Robotics Software Engineer , you'll design and implement core robotics solutions that directly power Medra's lab automation platform. This is a hands-on role where you'll move between algorithm development, hardware integration, and real-world deployment at customer labs.
What You'll Do Develop robotic solutions to manipulate and control biology tools designed for human use. Design and implement
motion planning algorithms
for collision-free operation in complex, dynamic environments. Apply
computer vision
to interact with lab consumables and equipment. Integrate, test, and debug robotics software in both simulation and real hardware. Collaborate with partner scientists to identify lab workflow challenges and translate them into robotic solutions. Ensure robustness and scalability in deployed systems, while identifying opportunities for simplification. What We're Looking For
4+ years of experience designing and building robotics algorithms. Proficiency in
Python
and familiarity with robotic arm manipulators. Hands-on experience with
motion planning, trajectory optimization, kinematics/dynamics, or control. Strong grasp of software engineering tools and production best practices. A hacker's mindset-quickly iterating to practical solutions. Flexibility to wear multiple hats and thrive in a fast-moving startup environment. BS/MS/PhD in Computer Science, Mechanical/Electrical/Aerospace Engineering, or equivalent experience. Bonus Points
Experience with robotic simulation frameworks (PyBullet, MuJoCo). Prior work with robotics in labs or manufacturing. Familiarity with mechanical design (Solidworks, etc.). Knowledge of software communication protocols (ZMQ, Redis, gRPC). Contributions to shipped hardware/software products. Hands-on robotics manipulation experience. Tech Stack Python | Motion Planning | Computer Vision | PyBullet/MuJoCo | Robotics Manipulators
Why Join Medra
Mission-driven impact : Help scientists accelerate discovery in health, climate, and beyond. Cutting-edge robotics : Build AI-driven lab automation at the frontier of science. High ownership : Shape foundational systems at an early-stage startup. Collaborative culture : Work with a passionate, tight-knit team. Compensation & Benefits
Competitive salary & equity 401(k) Medical, dental, and vision insurance Relocation benefits available Unlimited PTO Weekday dinners provided
Location This role is
100% on-site in San Francisco . We do not offer hybrid options. Relocation support is available.
Join Us If you're excited to build robotic systems that transform how science is done, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and help Medra usher in the era of continuous science.