Biomechanics Researcher

About the role

We’re building humanoid robots that work in homes, performing chores and freeing up people's time. This is challenging work, but we’re at a stage where we can focus on scaling and making real progress. NEO is our flagship product - a home robot designed to move, learn, and interact safely with families. We’re ready to ship NEO, and we’re looking for someone to join our team.

If you’re passionate about solving complex problems and seeing them through to real-world solutions, this is the opportunity for you. We’re growing rapidly and we’re hiring with intention. We need people who are excited about building something that truly changes how people spend their time - creating abundance for everyone.

About the team

At 1X Labs, we’re dedicated to advancing the science and technology that enables human-level, general-purpose humanoid robots. Our work spans sensing, actuation, materials, control, and intelligence, always aiming to push the boundaries of what’s possible. The Biomechanics function sits at the intersection of biology and engineering, using biological systems as reference points to inform our designs.

Key outcomes

• Develop quantitative performance models that define human-level capability across locomotion, manipulation, sensing, and physical interaction
• Establish engineering specifications and benchmarks derived from biological systems that directly influence hardware and software development
• Design and execute experiments that reveal the mechanisms underlying biological performance and adaptation
• Identify performance gaps between robotic systems and biological reference systems, providing actionable guidance for closing them
• Enable cross-functional teams to make better design decisions by translating biological insights into practical engineering constraints and opportunities

Minimum requirements

• PhD in Biomechanics, Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related field with 5+ years of experience
• Demonstrated expertise in modeling, quantitative analysis, or engineering applications
• Strong secondary background or hands-on experience in robotics, controls, materials, mechanical systems, or related engineering disciplines
• Proven ability to translate biological insights into actionable engineering specifications or performance targets
• Strong experimental experience, including test design, instrumentation, data collection, and analysis

Preferred skills

• Experience developing quantitative models of biological motion, force generation, sensing, or adaptation
• Familiarity with CAD, simulation environments, and engineering analysis tools
• Strong proficiency in Python or similar tools for modeling, analysis, and scientific computing
• Experience studying biological materials, soft tissues, tactile systems, or locomotion dynamics

What does a successful 1X Team Member look like?

A successful 1X Team Member is a builder. They move fast, take ownership of their work, and value time as a precious resource. They communicate clearly, complete tasks efficiently, and strive for excellence. They are intellectually rigorous, grounded in their domain, and capable of influencing adjacent fields. They use evidence to drive decisions, seek fundamental understanding, and ensure their insights withstand real-world scrutiny.

Compensation range

$200,000 - $250,000 + Equity

Benefits

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Generous paid time off, company holidays, and parental leave
• 401(k) plan with company match (100% on the first 3% of contributions, 50% on the next 2%)
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA) and Health Savings Accounts (HSA) options
• Commuter benefits (transit and parking)
• Short-term and long-term disability, and life insurance
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for mental health, financial, and personal support
• Onsite snacks and catered lunches

Equal Opportunity Employer

1X is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, marital status, medical condition, genetic information, disability, military or veteran status, justice system impact, or any other characteristic protected under applicable federal, state, or local law.