Summer Research Program Intern 2027, Laser Technology & Applications (Group 08-82)
About The Position
MIT Lincoln Laboratory’s Laser Technology & Applications group develops advanced solid-state, fiber, and diode laser technologies for scientific and defense applications. The group has contributed to laser communications, highly sensitive photon detectors, ladar systems used for terrain mapping and disaster response, cryogenic-laser illuminators for airborne sensors, and beam-combining techniques for high-energy laser systems. The intern will join a multidisciplinary research and development team working on aspects of high-power lasers for military systems. Work may involve power and heat management, laser physics, or optics. The team develops high-power beam-combined lasers and works to reduce system size, weight, and power consumption to produce hardware suitable for lightweight military systems. The Summer Research Program gives students the opportunity to apply academic knowledge to national security challenges through hands-on research alongside scientists and engineers. Interns receive dedicated mentorship and may participate in professional development activities, including workshops, technical talks, and networking events. Internships are typically 10–12 weeks, with flexible start and end dates, usually from May through early August. Housing support is available to eligible non-local interns, including access to discounted university housing in Boston and a one-time taxable relocation payment. Daily shuttle transportation between Boston-based housing and the Laboratory is provided at no cost. Compensation is hourly and depends on the highest academic year or degree completed before the internship begins. Published rates are effective January 2026 through December 2026 and will be reviewed for Summer 2027. Selected candidates must undergo a pre-employment background investigation and be able to obtain and maintain a Secret-level DoD security clearance. U.S. citizenship is required.
Requirements
- Be pursuing a BS, MS, or PhD in Electrical Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, or Materials Science.
- Have an interest in lasers or photonics.
- Be a U.S. citizen.
- Be able to undergo a pre-employment background investigation and obtain and maintain a Secret-level DoD security clearance.
Responsibilities
- Participate in research and development involving high-power lasers for military systems.
- Work on one or more areas such as power and heat management systems, laser physics, or optics.
- Contribute to development of high-power beam-combined lasers and efforts to reduce system size, weight, and power consumption.
- Apply academic knowledge to real-world national security challenges through hands-on research.
Benefits
- Dedicated mentorship.
- Professional development opportunities, including workshops, technical talks, and networking events.
- Housing support for eligible non-local interns, including access to discounted university housing in Boston.
- One-time taxable relocation payment for eligible non-local interns.
- Complimentary daily shuttle transportation between Boston-based housing and the Laboratory.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Intern
Education Level
No Education Listed
