Astro-Optics Research Intern

Applied Optimization; Fairborn (OH); On-site; USD 21,000 - 34,000; Part time

Job summary

Applied Optimization in Fairborn, OH seeks an undergraduate/graduate intern for optics/physics work. You will assist with theoretical prediction, numerical modeling, and high-quality data collection and analysis of atmospheric and astronomy data using ground-based telescope equipment.

Hours are part-time year-round, minimum 16 hours/week, with on-site attendance required and potential travel for customer support. The role emphasizes meticulous data handling and reporting within a small team.

Qualifications

• Undergraduate or graduate student enrolled in physics/astronomy/optics/engineering physics with a strong academic record.
• Knowledge of beam propagation in atmospheric turbulence and related modeling.
• Familiarity with signal and image processing techniques.
• Strong attention to detail and time management skills.
• Ability to communicate in written and oral form and follow instructions.
• Organizational, debugging, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to adapt within a small team and support evolving customer requirements.
• Willingness to travel to customer sites for technical support.
• Proficiency with MS Office tools (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint).

Responsibilities

• Support theoretical development and mathematical modeling and simulation.
• Perform Fourier transform calculations for linear systems.
• Assist in deriving circular and vortex beams for optical propagation in turbulence.
• Support optical engineering modifications of telescope equipment.
• Conduct optical bench experiments to meet customer requirements.
• Assist in data collection, reduction, and analysis using ground-based telescope equipment.
• Maintain accurate notebooks and provide weekly progress reports.
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Beam propagation

Signal processing

Image processing

Attention to detail

Time management

Communication skills

Team adaptability

Travel willingness

Problem-solving

Education

Undergraduate/Graduate student in physics/astronomy/optics/engineering physics

GPA 3.5 or higher (preferred)

Tools

MATLAB

C++

Python

ZEMAX

MS Office

Job description

Applied Optimization in Fairborn, OH seeks an undergraduate/graduate intern for optics/physics work. You will assist with theoretical prediction, numerical modeling, and high-quality data collection and analysis of atmospheric and astronomy data using ground-based telescope equipment.

Hours are part-time year-round, minimum 16 hours/week, with on-site attendance required and potential travel for customer support. The role emphasizes meticulous data handling and reporting within a small team.