2026 Space Photovoltaics Graduate Intern
About The Position
The Aerospace Corporation is the trusted partner to the nation’s space programs, solving the hardest problems and providing unmatched technical expertise. As the operator of a federally funded research and development center (FFRDC), we are broadly engaged across all aspects of space— delivering innovative solutions that span satellite, launch, ground, and cyber systems for defense, civil and commercial customers. When you join our team, you’ll be part of a special collection of problem solvers, thought leaders, and innovators. Join us and take your place in space. Physical Sciences Laboratories (PSL) supports the effective and timely development and operation of national security systems through scientific research and the application of advanced technologies. PSL has more than 150 specialized laboratories used to test, analyze, and troubleshoot virtually every aspect of rocket and satellite system design, development, construction, deployment, and operation. The expertise of the laboratories’ technical staff allows PSL to stay abreast of new technological developments and program support issues associated with rapidly evolving space systems. The Energy Technology Department (ETD) conduct both basic and applied research to characterize novel photovoltaic devices and elucidate how these devices degrade in the space environment. Our advanced characterization techniques, combined with a dedicated focus on precision and accuracy, enable us to provide reliable performance data on solar arrays and how they degrade in the harsh space environment for national security as well as civil and commercial space programs. As a Space Photovoltaics Graduate Intern, you will have the opportunity to work with world-class scientists and engineers and touch the full spectrum from hardware to software used in laboratory testing and prototyping activities to study and characterize photovoltaic devices for space applications. Highlights of PSL’s capabilities can be found here: Virtual Tour The selected candidate will be required to work full-time, on-site at our facility in El Segundo, CA.
Requirements
- Currently enrolled full-time in an accredited college/university program pursuing a Ph.D. degree in Electrical Engineering, Materials Science, Physics, or a related discipline.
- Availability to work full-time for a minimum of 10 weeks outside of university term and ability to return to a Ph.D. degree program full-time after completion of the internship.
- First year of graduate school completed by internship start date.
- A solid academic foundation in photovoltaic technologies, device physics, or opto-electronics, with relevant coursework or research experience.
- Proficiency in one or more programming languages (e.g., MATLAB, Python, C/C++) and familiarity with common data analysis tools.
- Minimum GPA 3.0.
- This position requires the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance.
- U.S. citizenship is required to obtain a security clearance.
- Transcripts.
- Strong written and oral communication skills
- Must work well in a team environment
- Possess organizational, time management and project management skills
- Demonstrate flexibility and ability to adapt to changing organizational need
- Interpersonal skills to coordinate efforts and work with other internal and external organizations
Nice To Haves
- Active security clearance.
- Hands-on experience with photovoltaic device and materials characterization techniques (e.g., quantum efficiency, IV measurements, luminescence spectroscopy, etc.).
- Hands-on experience with semiconductor or photovoltaic device fabrication
- Experience with modeling and simulation of photovoltaic devices (PC1D, SCAPS-1D, PECSIM, FDTD, Lumerical, Silvaco, etc.).
- Demonstrated ability to develop and utilize data analysis tools in Python (e.g., Pandas, NumPy, Plotly).
- Prior research experience or publications in space photovoltaics, renewable energy, or related fields.
- Proven track record of working as part of a complex, time-sensitive project team.
Responsibilities
- Support R&D projects aimed at reducing risks and accelerating technology transitions for next-generation space solar cell and array technologies
- Assist in developing and executing experiments focused on photovoltaic device characterization and degradation analysis using cutting-edge tools and techniques
- Integrate computer programming and database architecture solutions to solve experimental challenges
- Effectively document research findings and present technical results to departmental colleagues, senior researchers, and other stakeholders
- Collaborate with and receive training and mentorship from a multidisciplinary team of scientists and engineers to support your professional and technical development
- Duties, responsibilities and activities may change, or new ones may be assigned as needed
- Receive training and mentorship to support your professional and technical development
Benefits
- Comprehensive health care and wellness plans
- Paid holidays, sick time, and vacation
- Standard and alternate work schedules, including telework options
- 401(k) Plan — Employees receive a total company-paid benefit of 8%, 10%, or 12% of eligible compensation based on years of service and matching contributions; employees are immediately eligible and vested in the plan upon hire
- Flexible spending accounts
- Variable pay program for exceptional contributions
- Relocation assistance
- Professional growth and development programs to help advance your career
- Education assistance programs
- An inclusive work environment built on teamwork, flexibility, and respect
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Intern
Education Level
Ph.D. or professional degree
