Group 08-89 | SRP Intern | Quantum-Enabled Computation | Summer 2026 (Lexington, MA, US)

MIT Lincoln Laboratory • Lexington, MA

55d • Onsite

About The Position

The mission of Group 89, the Quantum-Enabled Computation Group, is to explore, prototype, and demonstrate transformative computational advantage by leveraging quantized and entangled signals. Our work falls into three key thrusts: quantum computing with superconducting qubits, classical computing with single flux quanta in superconducting circuits, and quantum information science and algorithms. We also enable the broader US research enterprise via superconducting device foundries and open-source software development, and support the US Government as strategic Test and Evaluation partners and subject matter experts. Our interdisciplinary Group includes scientific experts in computer science, quantum information, device theory, materials science, fabrication and integration engineering, electrical and microwave engineering, and quantum physics. We are seeking summer interns, at both the graduate and undergraduate level, to contribute to efforts within the Quantum-Enabled Computation group. Interns will be matched into one of our three core technical teams: Quantum hardware with superconducting qubits Beyond-CMOS classical computing with superconducting electronics Quantum computing algorithms and applications Please indicate in your application materials which research team(s) you are interested in exploring internships with. Internship projects vary from year to year and are based on current efforts at the time of the internship, as well as skills, background, and interests of the individual candidate. For example, prior internship projects have included contributing to the design and test of first-of-their-kind superconducting GPUs, developing and modernizing a test automation codebase for quantum device characterization, performing resource estimation for quantum algorithms, and investigating noise mechanisms in superconducting circuits. Interns will have the opportunity to collaborate with and learn from each other and technical experts in the Group, and will document and present their results to the Group at the end of the internship. The Summer Research Program offers students the chance to apply their academic knowledge to real-world national security challenges while working alongside leading scientists and engineers. As an SRP intern, you'll engage in hands-on research, receive dedicated mentorship, and take part in professional development opportunities including workshops, tech talks, and networking events-all while building connections within a vibrant community of peers. Internships are typically 10-12 weeks, with flexible start and end dates, typically May through early August. 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.

Requirements

• Current enrollment in a program working towards a BA/BS, MA/MS, or PhD degree in physics, electrical engineering, materials science, quantum information, computer science, or similar technical field.
• For graduate-level applicants, research or significant laboratory experience in at least one of our three core technical areas
• For hardware roles, hands-on experience with test equipment through previous internships, laboratory coursework, or research experience
• For all roles, strong scientific programming skills, preferably in Python and/or MATLAB
• Strong technical skills, intellectual curiosity, and eagerness to tackle open-ended problems
• Demonstrated effective organizational skills
• Demonstrated strong written and oral communication skills
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret level DoD security clearance.
• U.S. citizenship is required.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the design and test of first-of-their-kind superconducting GPUs
• Develop and modernize a test automation codebase for quantum device characterization
• Perform resource estimation for quantum algorithms
• Investigate noise mechanisms in superconducting circuits
• Collaborate with and learn from each other and technical experts in the Group
• Document and present their results to the Group at the end of the internship

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern
• Industry: Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees