We are always interested in outstanding students, postdoctoral researchers, and collaborators who are excited about safety-critical autonomy at the intersection of robotics, machine learning, and control.
These positions are actively recruiting. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis unless otherwise stated.
Postdoctoral Researcher
We are seeking a postdoctoral researcher to work on safety across the lifecycle of foundation model-enabled robotic systems, including validation, monitoring, verification, and safety-aware learning.
Position DescriptionPhD Students
We are anticipating hiring multiple PhD students in the 2025-2026 admission cycle. We are especially excited about:
See the prospective PhD students guidance below before reaching out.
AA PhD AdmissionsUndergraduate and MS Students
Stanford undergraduate and MS students typically join existing projects and work closely with a PhD student, with the expectation that they may eventually lead their own projects. We occasionally have targeted project opportunities, but students are also welcome to reach out with their own interests (please see the UG/MS, visiting students, and interns guidance below for what to include when reaching out).
Stanford students are also strongly encouraged to take AA276, Principles of Safety-Critical Autonomy, before starting research in the lab.
Targeted opportunities: None at the moment.
TeachingIn addition to the openings above, SIA Lab is always interested in connecting with researchers and students whose interests align with our work. Opportunities may depend on funding, timing, and mutual research fit.
Because of the high volume of inquiries, please use the guidance below before reaching out. A short, specific note is much easier to review than a long generic email.
If you have technical questions about lab papers or projects, please feel free to email Somil with a subject line that includes research question. You may receive a faster response if you also email or CC the graduate student listed on the relevant paper.
Please apply to the Stanford AA PhD program and mention Somil Bansal under faculty of interest. Admissions are coordinated at the department level, so admission-specific questions and application-review requests should go to the department.
After submitting your application, you are welcome to send a concise email with your CV and 2-3 sentences about the research interests, projects, or papers that most excite you.
Excellent postdoctoral candidates are encouraged to contact Somil with:
External fellowship applications are welcome, and the lab is happy to discuss potential fit and funding paths.
If you are interested in joining or visiting the lab, please send a concise email with:
A few common funding resources that may be useful for graduate students and postdoctoral candidates.