Summer Research Program Intern 2027, Integrated Missile Defense Technology (Group 03-36)

MIT Lincoln Laboratory • Lexington, MA

8d • $25 - $44

About The Position

The Integrated Missile Defense Technology Group analyzes and develops technology to defend America, military personnel, and allies from missile, air, and drone threats. The group supports the U.S. Armed Services and the Missile Defense Agency in developing, testing, and improving defense systems. Its work includes identifying emerging threats and defense needs, developing technologies, systems, and algorithms, prototyping and testing solutions, and transitioning capabilities into operational systems.

The group seeks undergraduate-level summer interns to contribute to mission-related projects. Interns work with technical staff on projects that use their competencies; projects may be completed individually or in teams. The internship is part of MIT Lincoln Laboratory’s Summer Research Program, which offers hands-on research, mentorship, and professional development through workshops, technical talks, and networking events.

Internships are typically 10–12 weeks, with flexible start and end dates, typically from May through early August. Housing support may be available to eligible non-local interns, including discounted university housing in Boston and a one-time taxable relocation payment. Complimentary daily shuttle transportation is provided between Boston-based housing and the Lab. Hourly compensation depends on the highest academic year or degree completed before the internship begins, ranging from $25.00 to $43.50 per hour. Selected candidates must complete a pre-employment background investigation and be able to obtain and maintain a Secret-level DoD security clearance. U.S. citizenship is required.

Requirements

• Pursuing a BS in Applied Mathematics, Computer Science, Engineering, Physics, or a similar STEM degree.
• Competencies in one or more of the following areas: C++, C, MATLAB, Python, physics, applied mathematics, engineering, computer science, radar, infrared (IR), radio frequency (RF), autonomous systems, control systems theory, artificial intelligence, machine learning, data structures, algorithms, signal processing, signal analysis, formal methods, neural nets, or sensor fusion.
• Must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret-level DoD security clearance.
• U.S. citizenship is required.
• Selected candidates are subject to a pre-employment background investigation.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to challenging projects related to the Integrated Missile Defense Technology Group’s mission.
• Work with technical staff on issues that leverage the intern’s competencies.
• Complete projects individually or as part of a team, depending on candidate skills.

Benefits

• Housing support for eligible non-local interns, including access to discounted university housing in Boston and a one-time taxable relocation payment.
• Complimentary daily shuttle transportation from Boston-based housing to and from the Lab.
• Dedicated mentorship and professional development opportunities, including workshops, tech talks, and networking events.

What This Job Offers

• Career Level: Intern