Internship Report: CDT Student Dennis Hadjivelichkov reports on his internship at Amazon Robotics in Berlin

As I return to my PhD studies at UCL after a transformative six-month internship at Amazon Robotics in Berlin, I find myself reflecting on the invaluable experiences and lessons gained during this period. I am eager to share insights from my journey and how they have shaped my thinking.
During my time at Amazon, I was immersed in a dynamic environment where innovation and collaboration were at the forefront. My role involved developing computer vision algorithms leveraging robot-object interactions. The challenges were both stimulating and rewarding. Working alongside brilliant colleagues, I witnessed first-hand the power of collective intelligence in tackling complex problems. The startup-like atmosphere fostered a culture of creativity and agility, enabling us to iterate and adapt swiftly to evolving demands.

This internship experience provided me with a deeper understanding of the importance of leadership principles in driving organizational success. The team’s well-defined values served as guiding beacons, shaping not only our professional conduct but also our approach to problemsolving. These principles, characterized by a customer obsession, working backwards from the goal, and relentless innovation, are invaluable assets that I intend to carry forward in my PhD and future career endeavors.
One of the most significant takeaways from my internship is the cultivation of an entrepreneurial mindset. Encouraged to think outside the box and embrace experimentation, I learned to approach challenges with a blend of creativity and pragmatism. This adaptive mindset enabled me to navigate uncertainty and also empowered me to explore new avenues for growth and development.
Would I recommend doing an internship at Amazon? Absolutely.
As I transition back to academia, I am grateful for the rich experiences and invaluable lessons learned during my internship, and for the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge robotics. Armed with newfound insights and skills, I am eager to apply them to my research at UCL and beyond. I am confident that the lessons learned and connections made during my time in Berlin will continue to influence and inspire my professional journey.

PS. For more information on how Amazon is approaching robotics and robot learning, check out https://www.aboutamazon.com/news/operations/how-amazon-deploys-robots-in-its-operations-facilities