Summer Research Program Intern 2027, Integrated RF & Photonics (Group 08-85)

Location: Lexington, MA, US

The Integrated RF and Photonics Group at MIT Lincoln Laboratory works at the forefront of advanced hardware development across the electromagnetic spectrum. Areas of focus range from conventional RF and microwave technologies such as phased arrays to the field of photonics with specialties in integrated RF photonics, classical and quantum sensing and computing systems, as well as laser radar and laser communications. We are seeking self-motivated and curious individuals to join our multi-disciplinary team as summer research interns. Summer interns will have the opportunity to contribute to ongoing research projects or pursue independent projects while exploring cutting-edge research. Experienced researchers offer interns mentorship and guidance to take advantage of the group’s broad technical expertise, advanced facilities, and collaborative environment.

Job Description

Potential RF-related projects may include testing, analysis, and debugging of hardware prototypes at all stages, firmware development, and FPGA programming.  Photonics-related projects may involve hardware and algorithm development for microwave photonics, visible light photonics, photonics in support of quantum systems and sensing systems.

Most successful applicants are enrolled in a science or engineering college degree program in physics, optics, electrical engineering, computer engineering, computer science, mathematics, or a related field.  Good academic performance in applicable courses will also be valued.  Past hands-on experience working in a relevant field is also welcome.  Applicants should have demonstrated ability to work collaboratively with others and communicate well within a team environment.  They will have a large part in shaping their independent research goals with the guidance of their mentors within the group.

To help us match your skills to the right project, please submit a cover letter describing your professional interests and experience along with a resume highlighting relevant coursework and specific skills.  These skills and experiences could include such things like programming (e.g., Python, C, HDL), use of technical software (e.g., MATLAB, HFSS, FEKO, etc.), past project or hardware development efforts, and experience with lab equipment (e.g., oscilloscopes, network analyzers, etc.).

Compensation

Hourly pay rates below are effective January 2026 – December 2026 and will be reviewed again for Summer 2027. 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.