Optical & Quantum Communications Intern (Summer 2027) - Group 67
About The Position
The Optical & Quantum Communications Group develops advanced laser communications technology for use in a wide range of challenging environments including terrestrial, space and underwater applications. Primary areas of research include the development of sensitive, single-photon detector arrays, coherent modems, integrated photonic circuits, and novel modulation and coding approaches. Using these technologies, the group conducts research and development for a wide range of space, airborne, and terrestrial system applications, including terabit-per-second direct-to-Earth small-s satellite constellations, near-Earth wideband relay laser communication terminal hardware, and next-generation beam-director prototypes inherently scalable to deep-space systems. The group has also initiated new research efforts into extending the range and utility of extremely photon-starved undersea communication transceivers and entanglement-based quantum communication networks. As a student intern in this group, you will participate in research that impacts a wide range of space, airborne, or terrestrial laser communications systems. Examples of potential projects include working on technologies such as coherent modems, integrated photonics, modulation and coding approaches, lasercom terminal development, FPGA development for pointing, acquisition and tracking, software development for lasercom terminals, quantum entanglement, quantum memory, single-photon detector arrays, photon-starved undersea communication terminals, deep space (Mars or Uranus) lasercom missions, and others.
Requirements
- Currently enrolled in a degree program (Preferred majors: Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aero/Astro, Aerospace Engineering, Mathematics).
- All degree levels (Undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD) are welcome to apply.
- Candidates will have prior experience and/or course work in any of the following areas: systems engineering, digital and analog circuit development, laser communications, optics, modulation and coding techniques, digital signal processing and/or control systems.
- U.S. citizenship is required.
Responsibilities
- Participate in research that impacts a wide range of space, airborne, or terrestrial laser communications systems.
- Work on technologies such as coherent modems, integrated photonics, modulation and coding approaches, lasercom terminal development, FPGA development for pointing, acquisition and tracking, software development for lasercom terminals, quantum entanglement, quantum memory, single-photon detector arrays, photon-starved undersea communication terminals, deep space (Mars or Uranus) lasercom missions, and others.
Benefits
- Housing support is available for eligible non-local interns, including access to discounted university housing in Boston and a one-time taxable relocation payment.
- Complimentary daily shuttle transportation is provided from Boston-based housing to and from the Lab.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Intern
Education Level
No Education Listed
