Research and development efforts spanning more than two decades have established University of Massachusetts Lowell's Submillimeter-Wave Technology Laboratory (STL) as a world-wide leader in terahertz transmitter and receiver systems. STL has pioneered the development of broad-band, solid-state multiplier sources, ultra-stable optically-pumped lasers and laser/microwave hybrid systems. Applications include radar simulation using scale models in terahertz compact ranges and the development of receivers for terahertz astronomical observations from space and those few sites on the earth where atmospheric transmission is adequate.

The staff has significant experience in the design and construction of submillimeter-wave transmitter and receiver components, and their integration with appropriate antenna systems. By integrating laser-based or solid-state transmitters with coherent receivers, STL produces high-performance submillimeter-wave compact radar ranges with operating capabilities extending to beyond 3 THz. In addition to developing transceiver systems, STL conducts a variety of scientific materials studies at terahertz frequencies. These studies focus on the discovery of new methods of generating and detecting submillimeter-wave radiation, and on scaling the microwave properties of a wide variety of dielectrics. With a strong commitment to education, the STL program has already sponsored more than fifty graduate and undergraduate students at UML within this research environment.

Graduate Students

Ph.D. and M.S. Research Assistantships supporting degrees in University of Massachusetts Lowell's Departments of Physics, Electrical Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering are available at STL in the areas of signal and image processing, submillimeter-wave source and receiver development, materials characterization, semiconductor magnetospectroscopy and electromagnetic scattering (theory and experiments), and machine design.

U.S. Citizenship is required.

Student Positions in an R&D Environment

The Submillimeter-Wave Technology Laboratory has ongoing requirements for above-average graduate and undergraduate Science or Engineering students interested in a fast-paced R&D environment. Students must be capable of, or demonstrate a willingness to learn, two or more of the following tasks:

  • Designing and/or building prototype electrical circuits with little or no supervision.
  • Writing data acquisition and data analysis software using C, Pascal, BASIC, FORTRAN, or LabVIEW.
  • Performing routine laboratory chores such as servicing laser systems with cryogenic liquids, lab maintenance, and miscellaneous fabrication tasks.
  • Designing and/or fabricating prototype mechanical components for research projects. This task requires CAD and mechanical design skills along with the knowledge of, or willingness to learn the operation of machine shop tools.
  • Designing, fabricating and testing modifications to CO2 and submillimeter-wave lasers to improve system performance. Assisting with the operation of a Fourier transform spectrometer and/or submillimeter-wave laser ellipsometer as applied to advanced materials research.
Projects could include:
  •     Fabrication, design, and operation of submillimeter-wave lasers
  •     Radar image processing
  •     Radar compact range operation
  •     Fabrication and characterization or dielectric materials for microwave applications
  •     Scale model building
  •     Design and fabrication of electronic circuits
  •     Web site programming and maintenance
  •     Computer network maintenance
  •     Development of data acquisition systems
  •     Design and development of submillimeter receiver systems

Some experience from a previous job or relevant hobby (HAM radio, computer programming, electronic kits, hands-on mechanical experimenting, etc.) is extremely desirable.

Interested students must be hard-working, self-motivated, have good grades, and be available at least 10 hours per week during normal working hours when school is in session (allowances will be made during testing periods). There exists the possibility for full-time work during school breaks.

U.S. Citizenship is required.

The University of Massachusetts Lowell is an equal opportunity/affirmative action, Title IX, 504 Employer.