Ionospheric Research Intern

Job ID: 1943

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 hourly wage and will be tasked with varying duties based on current projects, needed support, and development phase.

The SDL Geospace Program is seeking an upper-level undergraduate student majoring in Physics or Engineering to join our team for the summer in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The internship project will involve searching for and acquiring a large inventory of data from ionosonde stations in the mid- and high-latitude northern hemisphere. The Intern will then use this data alongside ionospheric models to determine what auroral conditions were likely present when the data were taken. The Intern will then combine this into a database that can be used for ongoing work at SDL.

This position has the potential of continued employment or transition to student/full-time employment requiring security clearance eligibility.

Key Responsibilities:

• Atmospheric or ionospheric modeling, simulation, or measurement
• Data collection, visualization, and analysis
• Development of analysis tools
• Documentation of work
• Collaborates with other scientists and engineers

• Experience with Python programming language
• Experience creating and working with large datasets
• Ability to work well with others on a team
• Good communication skills, both written and verbal
• Must be a U.S. Citizen with the ability to obtain a US Government security clearance

• Experience with Linux
• Experience creating databases
• Knowledge of the aurora/ionosphere

• Currently enrolled in Physics, Engineering, Space Science, Atmospheric Science, or similar program
• Undergraduate Junior or Senior 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.