Biomechanics Researcher

1X

Since its founding in 2015, 1X has been at the forefront of developing advanced humanoid robots designed for household use. Our mission is to create an abundant supply of labor through safe, intelligent humanoids.

We strive for excellence in all we do, solving some of the hardest problems in robotics with the world’s most talented individuals. Every part of our robots is designed and produced in house, from motor coils to AI, reflecting our vertically integrated approach. At 1X, you will own real projects, be recognized for your achievements, and be rewarded based on merit.

We are seeking a Biomechanics Researcher with a passion to advance humanoid technology by understanding and mimicking, soft tissue muscle and bone characteristics, sensing, and the physics of human robot contact. This role is ideal for a curious and driven researcher who wants to translate biomechanical insight into next generation robot skins, compliant structures, safe covers, and improved physical interaction.

You will help build the biomechanical foundations that guide how our humanoids move, sense, and safely interact with people and the world. You will collaborate closely with senior researchers and engineers in materials, physics, mechanical design, perception, and industrial design to shape the physical intelligence and human interaction properties of our robots.

Key Responsibilities

• Study human motion, actuation, soft tissue response, and sensing to derive performance targets for robot skin, compliant structures, and energy absorbing covers.

• Develop experimental protocols and measurement systems to quantify touch, compliance, friction, impact behavior, and tactile perception relevant to humanoid task

• Translate biomechanical insight into actionable design guidance for materials, structures, and motion behaviors.

• Work closely with materials scientists and engineers to integrate biomechanics into the development of next generation skins, textiles, gels, and layered materials.

• Partner with mechanical and industrial design teams to ensure that physical interaction behaviors are intuitive, safe, and human aligned.

• Build testing setups that mimic real world human robot interaction scenarios and validate design choices with quantitative data.

• Contribute to internal models and simulation tools that predict how new materials and structures perform under human-like contact.

• Stay at the forefront of biomechanics research, human factors, and tactile science to continually refine our understanding of safe and natural physical interaction.

Required Qualifications

• PhD degree in biomechanics, mechanical engineering, biomedical engineering, or a related field.

• 2+ years industry experience translating expertise in biomechanics to consumer products

• Strong understanding of human actuation and sensing and soft tissue mechanics.

• Hands on experience designing and running experiments that measure movement, force, compliance, impact, or tactile response.

• Ability to convert experimental insight into clear design targets or engineering specifications.

• Comfort working across disciplines and rapidly iterating from concept to prototype.

• First principles thinker with strong analytical skills and a practical approach to solving complex problems.

• Excellent communication and collaboration skills to work effectively with a demanding, fast moving team.

We believe the best work is done when collaborating and therefore require in-person presence in our office locations.