Summer Research Program Intern 2027, Homeland Sensors and Analytics (Group 45)

Location: Lexington, MA, US

The Homeland Sensors and Analytics Group builds technology to counter threats to our critical infrastructure, land and maritime borders, transportation systems, military installations, and public places.  We focus on the development and fielding of advanced sensors, AI and data analytics, and integrated human-machine decision making to help recognize and disrupt these threats.  We often apply advanced machine learning or data science methods to convert raw data into actionable insights about the activities of threat actors, networks, or organizations.  Our ultimate goal is to field solutions that significantly enhance the decision-making process of analysts and operators who secure the Homeland.

Position Description

The Homeland Sensors and Analytics group seeks summer research interns who are highly motivated by National Security or Homeland Security missions.  Specifically, we are looking for students who are building their expertise in AI, machine learning, and data science, and would like to apply their skillset to practical problems with real-world impact.  Selected interns will have an opportunity to work alongside experts in the fields of computer vision, machine learning, natural language processing, network and graph analytics, AI explainability, statistical models, software architectures, and autonomy.  Candidate project assignments include AI-enabled surveillance video processing, automated threat recognition within RF imagery, and characterization of information flow over large-scale social media networks.

Job Requirements

Current enrollment in a program working toward a BS, MS, or PhD degree in engineering, computer science, mathematics, statistics, information science, or related technical fields

Demonstrated effective organizational skills and ability to work independently and in a team environment

Ability to manage time and work toward deadlines

Openness to learning new skills

Familiarity with one or more programming languages (e.g., Python, C/C++)

Summer Research Program Overview

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.

Learn more about the Summer Research Program at: https://www.ll.mit.edu/careers/student-opportunities/summer-research-program

Compensation

Hourly pay rates are based on the highest academic year or degree completed before the internship start date.

Freshman year completed: $25.00/hour Sophomore year completed: $27.00/hour Junior year completed: $29.00/hour 4th year of 5 year program completed, no degree conferred: $32.00/hour Bachelors completed: $34.50/hour Bachelors + 1, one year of graduate study completed: $36.50/hour Bachelors + 2, two years of graduate study completed: $38.00/hour MS completed: $39.00/hour MS + 1, one year of graduate study completed after the MS: $41.00/hour MS + 2, two years of graduate study completed after the MS: $42.50/hour MS + 3, three years of graduate study completed after the MS: $43.50/hour

Selected candidate will be subject to a pre-employment background investigation and must be able to obtain and maintain a Secret level DoD security clearance.

MIT Lincoln Laboratory is an Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, veteran status, disability status, or genetic information; U.S. citizenship is required.

Requisition ID: 43498