Summer Research Program Intern , ISR Systems & Architectures; Group

Date: Oct 7, 2026

Location: Lexington, MA, US

Company: MIT Lincoln Laboratory

The ISR Systems and Architectures group performs analysis and experimentation to develop concepts for filling critical gaps in U.S. Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. This work includes evaluating mission needs by considering future operational scenarios, and developing options for addressing these needs through advanced technologies and novel system concepts. Studies within the group can cover a broad range of technical areas, including advanced sensor systems, new platforms, communications, navigation solutions, and data exploitation approaches.

The analyses performed by the group can lead to experimental test campaigns to collect data to verify modeling results and have also generated opportunities for hardware and software prototyping at Lincoln Laboratory. The analysis topics and questions are typically posed by senior leaders in the Air Force and the work for the group is briefed out widely to help inform critical decisions and impact future acquisitions.

The Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) Systems and Architectures Group is seeking a summer intern to work on a project related to the modeling and analysis of ISR tactical systems. Specific areas of the study include sensor systems, communication systems, navigation systems, or aircraft studies. The summer project will include the development of mathematical models of system performance based on physical principles and engineering, and the implementation of the models on the MATLAB programming language.

The work will build upon existing physics-based simulations, data analysis, and/or algorithm assessments within the group. The summer intern will create and demonstrate one or more new modeling capabilities, and will use the models to perform analysis to answer a mission-relevant question. With the Group's areas of study, summer projects can be adapted to match candidates' unique interests or skills.

The summer intern will work closely with a mentor form the ISR Systems and Architecture Group Technical staff.

The successful intern will be an undergraduate (sophomore year or higher) or graduate student (master's degree or PhD candidate) with a major in physics, mathematics, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, aeronautics/astronautics, computer science, or software engineering. Experience with MATLAB or a similar programming language is required.

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://(Use the "Apply for this Job" box below).-program

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
• J…