Job Description

The Optical/Quantum Communications Group develops impactful classical and quantum technologies and system prototypes for use in a wide range of challenging environments including terrestrial, space and underwater applications. Primary areas of research include the development of compact, high-sensitivity communication transceivers, novel entangled-photon source technologies; sensitive, single-photon receivers; multi-format modems; robust and compact optical beam directors; precision beam pointing, link acquisition and tracking systems; and novel modulation and coding approaches. The group is leveraging these technologies for use in prototype systems that are deployed in the field to inform next-generation classical and quantum optical system capabilities.

MIT Lincoln Laboratory is a Federally Funded Research and Development Center (FFRDC). Group 67 develops advanced optical communications (sometimes referred to as lasercom) technology for use in ground-breaking communication system demonstrations and architectures for the U.S. Government. Three types of optical communication links we study include free-space laser communications links from near- or deep-space to ground, narrow-beam undersea laser communication links and entanglement-based quantum communication links. All of these link types are highly challenging due to very high losses through space, atmospheric turbulence, and/or seawater. We recently launched a small cubesat in low-Earth orbit that provides 100- and 200-Gbps downlink rates through turbulent atmospheric links to ground terminals, as well as a payload to the International Space Station (ISS) to support development of optical communications for human space exploration for NASA. We are also preparing for the launch of the Artemis Lunar mission where we will demonstrate utility of operational lasercom for crewed lunar space missions. In additional to large space demonstrations, we also focus on demonstrating capable optical ground terminals to support space missions as well as developing new technologies to dramatically increase the achievable data rate for undersea and air-to-undersea communications using narrow-beam blue-green optical technologies. Finally, we are also developing quantum technologies to enable high-rate entanglement swap and quantum teleportation over free-space and fiber channels. 

Job Description:

As a summer research student, you will be working side-by-side with some of the foremost researchers in lasercom and quantum networking. Specific project work requires either knowledge of laser and electro-optic technologies, communication theory or analysis, software or firmware (including FPGA) skills that can be applied to working with optical communications or quantum communications hardware, entanglement generation source technologies, or system architectures for distributing entanglement. A goal for the summer project is for the candidate to participate in lasercom and quantum laboratory demonstrations and/or communication system analysis. 

Requirements:

The successful candidate will be pursuing a BS, MS, or PhD degree in Electrical Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Optical Engineering, Computer Science, Physics or Mathematics. An interest in helping to develop next-generation space, undersea or quantum communication systems is a must. In addition, a working knowledge of Matlab, C/C++, Java, or Python is helpful. Experience with classical or quantum laboratory environments is desirable.

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: 41523 

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