Summer Research Program Intern , Communications Networks & Analysis; Group

How can we enable timely and automated data sharing across space, air, and surface platforms operating over vast distances? Researchers in the Communication Networks & Analysis develop technologies, algorithms, and architectures to provide resilient and interoperable communications across the joint force. We apply our expertise in line-of-sight and beyond-line-of-sight communications and networking to design and build robust connectivity to support users operating in congested and/or contested environments.

Our solutions improve the resilience and capacity of individual communications systems and enable seamless integration of these systems.

The Communication Networks & Analysis Group is seeking a summer intern to assist in the development and performance analysis of algorithms and protocols for wireless communications networks. The successful candidate will design, implement and/or test new protocols at multiple layers in the protocol stack under the guidance of a mentor. Possible topics include:
Conduct research and development in the areas of communications networks with emphasis on physical and MAC layer algorithms and protocols. Characterize performance and fidelity limitations of current physical- and link-layer wireless network emulation techniques, and discover methods to push these limitations. Collect and analyze performance data from physical- and link-layer wireless network emulation models, under high-throughput and low-latency scenarios.

• Pursuing BS or MS in Electrical or Computer Engineering or Computer Science Coursework in communications and networks
• Experience with programming and scripting languages such as C/C++, Java, Python
• Experience with MATLAB preferred Familiarity with Linux preferred
• Familiarity with network monitoring, analysis, and test tools such as Wireshark, iPerf is a plus.

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.

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

• Freshman (BS expected May/June 2030): $25.00/hour
• Sophomore (BS expected May/June 2029): $27.00/hour
• Junior (BS expected May/June 2028): $29.00/hour
• Senior (5-year BS program, completed 4 years by May/June 2027): $32.00/hour
• Bachelor’s degree completed in 2027: $34.50/hour
• BS + 1 (BS completed May/June 2026, 1st year of MS in 2026-27): $36.50/hour
• BS + 2 (BS completed May/June 2025, 2nd year of MS in 2026-27, degree not yet conferred): $38.00/hour
• MS + 1 (MS completed May/June 2026, 1st year of PhD in 2026-27): $41.00/hour
• MS + 2 (MS completed May/June 2025, 2nd year of PhD in 2026-27): $42.50/hour
• MS + 3 (MS completed May/June 2024, 3rd year of PhD in 2026-27): $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.