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.
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.
Hourly pay rates below are effective January 2026 – December 2026 and will be reviewed again for Summer 2027.
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: 43459
MIT Lincoln Laboratory is a federally funded research and development center chartered to apply advanced technology to problems of national security. Research and development activities focus on long-term technology development as well as rapid system prototyping and demonstration. These efforts are aligned within key mission areas. The Laboratory works with industry to transition new concepts and technology for system development and deployment.
