Student Summer Experiences
From industry internships and national laboratories to research experiences and professional development programs, Optical Sciences students spent the summer developing technical skills, building professional networks, and exploring career opportunities across the optics and photonics community.
These experiences provide valuable hands-on training while helping students prepare for future careers in industry, academia, and research.
Submit YOUR 2026 summer experience here!
Research Intern | SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory
Logan Curley, Undergraduate
Logan spent the summer at SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory, where he worked on simulations and modeling for an arrival time monitoring system used with one of the world's most powerful X-ray lasers.
His project focused on developing algorithms and a graphical user interface to model beam timing and detect arrival events, helping researchers address challenges related to laser drift and jitter. Alongside the technical work, he gained exposure to world-class research facilities and collaborative scientific environments.
Summer TRACK Program
Ian Holzwarth, Undergraduate
Ian participated in the Summer TRACK program, completing Physics 141 and Calculus II while working with an engineering mentor through a career development course.
The program also provided opportunities to visit organizations including FreeFall Aerospace, Edmund Optics, the Richard F. Caris Mirror Lab, Roche Tissue Diagnostics, and Caterpillar, offering valuable insight into engineering careers and workplace culture.
New Frontiers of Sound (NewFoS)
Luke Thoresen, Undergraduate
Working under Dr. Zafer Mutlu, Luke spent the summer designing, fabricating, and testing surface acoustic wave devices used for radio-frequency filtering applications.
His research involved cleanroom fabrication, device characterization, and investigating topological protection methods to improve device performance and reliability. He will continue his research throughout the academic year and attend the Eindhoven Semicon Summer School.
Turn Your Experience into Your Next Opportunity
The Industrial Affiliates Program connects Optical Sciences students with internships, co-ops, and full-time employment opportunities at leading companies in optics, photonics, imaging, aerospace, defense, and semiconductor technologies.
Whether you're looking for your first internship or preparing for graduation, the IA Program provides access to employers actively seeking Optical Sciences talent.
Get Career Ready
- Update your resume in the IA Portal
- Refresh your student profile
- Explore current internship and job openings
- Connect with industry partners
For questions about the Jobs and Resumes portal email julissaa@arizona.edu.