Physicist Intern
Job ID: 1948
The Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL), a University Affiliated Research Center (UARC), has been developing innovative technologies and solutions for cutting-edge DoD and intelligence programs for over six decades.
SDL’s internship program provides an exciting opportunity for undergraduate and graduate students to get involved with state-of-the art technologies in space-, airborne-, and ground-based systems. With the support of engineers and mentors, Interns are able to work on professional-level assignments that complement their academic studies. The program also includes training workshops, networking opportunities, and a variety of summer events and activities. Interns will be paid a competitive monthly stipend and will be tasked with varying duties based on current projects, needed support, and development phase.
The Military Space Division is seeking undergraduate or graduate engineering or physics students to support the Quantum Sensing and Timing (QST) program for the Air Force Research Lab (ARFL) located at Kirtland Air Force Base, Albuquerque, NM. The intern would work with atomic physicists on atom-chip accelerometer development. You would assist in running and optimizing magneto-optical trap (MOT), and magnetic waveguide experiments. Opportunities for simulation of atom chip physics may also be available to qualified candidates. Interns will be paid a competitive hourly wage and will be tasked with varying duties based on current projects, needed support, and development phase.
This position has the potential of continued employment or transition to student/full-time employment requiring security clearance eligibility.
Desired Qualifications
- Hands on laboratory experience
- Equipment experience (e.g., including multimeters, oscilloscopes, and spectrum analyzers)
- AMO lab experience preferred (e.g., lasers, optics, vacuum technologies)
- Proficiency in at least one scientific computing language (examples: Python, MATLAB, C, C++)
- Knowledge of analog and digital electronics
- Strong desire to learn new things and innovate
- Ability to work alone or with a team
- Good communication skills, both written and verbal
- Willing to relocate to Albuquerque, NM for summer 2025
- Must be a U.S. Citizen with the ability to obtain a US Government security clearance
Education
- Physics, mechanical/electrical engineering, or related fields
- Must have finished at least sophomore year by Summer 2025 (junior, senior, or graduate student)
- 3.0 GPA minimum is required
Interviews may occur any time within the hiring period; applicants are encouraged to complete and submit the application as early as possible. If you’re unsure if you are qualified, we still want to hear from you. If you have a passion for problem-solving and learning, you could be a great fit for this internship.
SDL supports a variety of missions, including NASA’s vision to reveal the unknown for the benefit of humankind and the Department of Defense’s aim to protect our nation on the ground, in the air, and in space. Our sensors, satellites, software systems, and science and engineering play an essential role in some important missions you’ve heard of, and others that you haven’t. Join our team in our seventh decade of delivering mission success.
For questions or assistance with the application process or the DoD SkillBridge program, please contact employment@sdl.usu.edu.
EOE including Disability and Vet