About the role#
The Energy Systems Group at MIT Lincoln Laboratory develops technology to improve the resilience and efficiency of civilian and defense energy systems. As an intern, you will join a multi-disciplinary team focused on securing critical infrastructure. You will work on designing, implementing, and testing software tools to evaluate the cybersecurity of control systems and the hardware that connects to them. This role involves using digital twins and hardware-in-the-loop platforms to test your work. You may also travel with staff to test these tools on real-world infrastructure.
What you'll do#
- Design, implement, and test software tools to evaluate cybersecurity resiliency.
- Use modeling, simulation, and hardware-in-the-loop platforms for evaluation.
- Rehost embedded system firmware for security analysis.
- Reverse engineer embedded systems or their programming applications.
- Create protocol parsers for industrial control systems and proprietary network protocols.
- Use network simulation tools to build realistic network environments for energy systems.
- Travel with laboratory staff to exercise tools on real-world infrastructure.
What you'll need#
- Currently pursuing a B.S., M.S., or Ph.D. in computer science, electrical engineering, computer engineering, or a related field.
- Proficiency in C, C++, Python, or Go.
- Familiarity with industrial control system protocols like Modbus, IEC 61850, DNP3, OPC, or BACnet.
- Experience with network protocol analysis tools such as Tcpdump, Wireshark, or Zeek.
- Knowledge of cryptographic principles, penetration testing, red team operations, or intrusion detection.
- Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work both in teams and independently.
- Effective written and oral communication skills.
- Ability to obtain and maintain a Secret level DoD security clearance.
Location & details#
- Location: Lexington, Massachusetts.
- Term: Summer 2027.
- Modality: On-site, full-time.
- Compensation: Paid hourly based on completed academic year or degree.
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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