About the role#
As a Cyber System Exploitation Intern, you will join the Cyber System Assessment Group to contribute to the development of cybersecurity tools and techniques. You will perform reverse engineering and exploit software and hardware systems that are critical to U.S. government operations and national defense. This role involves direct participation in research to identify and understand vulnerabilities.
What you'll do#
- Prototype cyber tools and conduct technical analysis of offensive or defensive systems.
- Perform automated vulnerability discovery, static analysis, and dynamic instrumentation.
- Research software protection mechanisms and reverse engineering techniques.
- Communicate research findings through writing, public presentations, and hands-on training sessions.
What you'll need#
- You must be a rising college junior or senior in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or a related program.
- Coursework in at least two of the following: Operating Systems, Distributed Systems, Programming Languages, Mathematics, or Algorithms.
- Proficiency in Python and C/C++ or similar programming languages.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret level DoD security clearance.
Location & details#
- This is a full-time, paid internship based in Lexington, Massachusetts.
- The position is on-site for the Summer 2027 term.
- U.S. citizenship is required.
About MIT Lincoln Laboratory
MIT Lincoln Laboratory is a federally funded research and development center. Founded in 1951, it focuses on technology development and system prototyping for national security. The organization is based in Lexington, Massachusetts. It employs over 4,000 people and works with industry partners to transition new concepts into deployed systems.
How to get in at MIT Lincoln Laboratory
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