Summer Research Program Intern 2027, Tactical Satellite Communications (Group 06-64)

Location: Lexington, MA, US

The Tactical SATCOM Systems Group is developing technologies for the most advanced communication satellites, and SATCOM systems in the world.  The Group is involved in a synergistic combination of research, prototyping, and experimentation efforts focused on the goals of enhancing the capacity, robustness, and the flexibility of future generations of communications satellites and systems.

Current research areas draw from advanced concepts in Information Theory, Communication Theory, Network Theory, Array Processing, Estimation and Detection, Machine Learning, Antennas and Arrays, Dynammic Resource Allocation, and Optimization. Promising research results are verified in hardware and software prototypes that provide quantitative performance data in relevant environments. Exceptional candidates seeking to become experts in these fields and advance the state of SATCOM technology are encouraged to apply.

Position Description

The Advanced Satcom Systems and Operations Group seeks a summer intern to engage in design, analysis, modeling, and/or simulation of novel aspects for future wireless communications systems.  The work may include signal processing, machine learning, information theory, and/or algorithm development for the most advanced communication satellites being developed.

The successful candidate must be working on a PhD, MS, or BS degree in Electrical Engineering or Computer Science and have the ability to work with abstract concepts. Skills and experience in one or more of the following areas are required: C/C++ and/or Java, database design, graphical user interfaces, and XML. A background in signal processing or digital communications is beneficial, but not required.

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.

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.

Requisition ID: 43496