Optical & Quantum Communications Intern (Summer 2027) - Group 67

About the Role

The Optical & Quantum Communications Group develops advanced laser communications technology for terrestrial, space, and underwater applications. Primary research areas include sensitive single-photon detector arrays, coherent modems, integrated photonic circuits, and novel modulation and coding approaches. The group conducts R&D for space, airborne, and terrestrial systems, such as terabit-per-second direct-to-Earth small-satellite constellations, near-Earth wideband relay laser communication terminals, and next-generation beam-director prototypes scalable to deep-space systems. Research also extends to photon-starved undersea communication transceivers and entanglement-based quantum communication networks.

As a student intern, you will participate in research impacting space, airborne, or terrestrial laser communications systems. Potential projects may involve coherent modems, integrated photonics, modulation and coding, lasercom terminal development, FPGA development for pointing/acquisition/tracking, software for lasercom terminals, quantum entanglement, quantum memory, single-photon detector arrays, photon-starved undersea terminals, or deep-space lasercom missions (e.g., Mars or Uranus).

Requirements

• Currently enrolled in a degree program (preferred majors: Computer Science, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aero/Astro, Aerospace Engineering, Mathematics).
• All degree levels (Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD) are welcome.
• Prior experience and/or coursework in one or more of the following: systems engineering, digital/analog circuit development, laser communications, optics, modulation and coding techniques, digital signal processing, or control systems.

Program Overview

The Summer Research Program offers students the opportunity to apply academic knowledge to real-world national security challenges while working alongside leading scientists and engineers. Interns engage in hands-on research, receive mentorship, and participate in professional development opportunities, including workshops, tech talks, and networking events. The program fosters connections within a vibrant community of peers.

• Duration: Typically 10–12 weeks, with flexible start/end dates (May through early August).
• Housing support available for eligible non-local interns, including discounted university housing in Boston and a one-time taxable relocation payment.
• Complimentary daily shuttle transportation provided between Boston-based housing and the Lab.

Pay

Hourly pay rates (effective January 2026–December 2026):

• Freshman: $25.00/hr ($52,000 annualized)
• Sophomore: $27.00/hr ($56,160 annualized)
• Junior: $29.00/hr ($60,320 annualized)
• Senior (no degree): $32.00/hr ($66,560 annualized)
• BS: $34.50/hr ($71,760 annualized)
• BS + 1 year: $36.50/hr ($75,920 annualized)
• BS + 2 years: $38.00/hr ($79,040 annualized)
• MS: $39.00/hr ($81,120 annualized)
• MS + 1 year: $41.00/hr ($85,280 annualized)
• MS + 2 years: $42.50/hr ($88,400 annualized)
• MS + 3 years: $43.50/hr ($90,480 annualized)

Security & Eligibility

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. U.S. citizenship is required.