Embedded Systems Intern

Ionic Wind AG is a Swiss Empa spin-off developing the world’s first commercial solid-state airflow generators – a disruptive alternative to fans for laptops, edge AI systems and high-precision instruments. Our modules generate airflow by exploiting principles from plasma physics, having no noise, no vibration

As our product gets closer to market, we are offering a 6 months internship to develop, integrate and test the MCU of our airflow units.

Your responsibilities

• Define the embedded system architecture, including sensor interfaces, control signals, communication protocols, and safety functions.
• Evaluate, select, and prototype the most suitable MCU platform, and integrate it with our current power supplies and test infrastructure.
• Develop dynamic closed-loop control for high-voltage and current setpoints, including arcing detection, dust mitigation, safety interlocks, and environmental monitoring.
• Implement robust communication protocols between the embedded system, power electronics, sensors, and external control software.
• Document technical findings and provide actionable recommendations for system integration, scalability, and future product development.

Your profile

• Highly motivated and curious mindset
• Currently enrolled in embedded systems, electrical, mechanical or computer science, or a related discipline at a Swiss university and looking for a mandatory internship or Master Thesis
• Hands-on experience with microcontrollers and embedded firmware development, ideally in C/C++
• Familiarity with common communication protocols such as UART and I2C
• Experience in hand-on electronics prototyping : PCB design, soldering, field testing
• Fluent in English, with German and French as a plus

Nice to Have

• Familiarity with thermal systems
• Familiarity with Fluid mechanics, especially airflow physics
• Familiarity with the basics of plasma physics
• Experience with CAD, 3D printing
• Interest in disrupting technologies
• Hands-on skills in testbench setup or experimental physics

What We Offer

• 2300 CHF / month salary (interns) or accommodation stipend (MSc thesis student)
• Direct exposure to R&D at the intersection of research and startup innovation.
• A unique look into solid-state airflow technologies — beyond what’s possible with fans
• Direct exposure to strategic decision-making in a deep-tech startup
• Friendly, ambitious team driven by technical excellence and purpose
• Optional participation in planned work trips abroad (customer pilot site, suppliers)
• Opportunity to stay involved long-term as employee at Ionic Wind AG