Ionospheric Research Intern at Space Dynamics Laboratory – Albuquerque, New Mexico

Job ID: 6791
Date Posted: March 5, 2026

The Space Dynamics Laboratory (SDL) Geospace Program is seeking an undergraduate or graduate-level student to join our Strategic & Military Space Division for the summer of 2026. This internship is located in Albuquerque, New Mexico. SDL provides housing and travel support, though interns are responsible for making their own arrangements.

The selected intern will assist in ongoing research activities involving atmospheric and ionospheric studies, working closely with other scientists and engineers to develop novel analysis tools and techniques. In this position, the intern will work on the analysis of data from different ionospheric instruments. Applicants should have an expressed interest in space, space weather, data analysis, data visualization, and scientific research.

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

The Strategic & Military Space Division delivers advanced satellite and sensor systems that support the Department of Defense and the Intelligence Community. Our division is a key component of national security, providing technological solutions and expert mission support. Become part of a team dedicated to making a tangible contribution to our nation’s defense capabilities.

Key Responsibilities:

• Performs analysis and visualization of ionospheric data
• Develops scientific programming analysis tools
• Collaborates with scientists and engineers
• Documents and regularly presents progress

• Must be a U.S. citizen with the ability to obtain and maintain a U.S. Government security clearance
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as a team member
• Ability to be productive in a dynamic and collaborative environment
• Experience with Python or other common programming languages
• Effective written and verbal communication skills
• Willingness to learn and tackle new problems

• Familiarity with command line interfaces, Git, SSH
• Experience with data analysis and visualization tools
• Prior research experience

• Currently pursuing a science-related degree in physics, engineering, chemistry, biology, atmospheric science, or similar field
• Undergraduate or graduate student
• 3.00 GPA minimum is required

• 12 Weeks

SDL delivers advanced multi-domain solutions to protect national security and enable scientific discovery. Our expertise in satellites, sensors and instruments, ground systems and data processing, and autonomous systems plays a critical role in missions supporting NASA and the Department of Defense. Join our team of engineers, scientists, technicians, and business professionals in our seventh decade of delivering mission success.

At SDL, we strive to uphold a culture of respect, collaboration, empowerment, and accountability. We listen with open minds, seek to understand diverse perspectives, and engage in thoughtful dialogue. We work together by sharing knowledge, involving others, and offering support. We trust and empower our team members to take ownership, act with integrity, and be accountable. Above all, we deliver on our commitments to each other and to our mission partners.

The application window for this position is expected to remain open for approximately 7 days; however, it may be shortened or extended depending on business needs and the availability of qualified candidates. We encourage interested candidates to submit their applications promptly.

For questions, assistance, or accommodation with the application process or the DoD SkillBridge program, please contact employment@sdl.usu.edu.