NRCA Optical Scientist Intern (Summer 2027)
Ora
Summary
NRCA is seeking a highly motivated and creative optical scientist intern to work on the development of solutions to various optical design challenges in a wide variety of areas such as optical design, optical metrology, and digital manufacturing.
Job description
Description of Responsibilities
- Under guidance from senior scientists or engineers, work on projects that develop and deliver innovative solutions to a variety of challenging problems or assignments.
- Responsible for completing individual tasks or assignments that are task or project focused.
- Designing, fabricating or testing mechanical parts or equipment.
- Prepare and deliver presentations on completed projects.
- May be responsible for developing new software for analysis (Software Engineering specialty).
- Other duties as required.
Required Skills/Abilities
- Good understanding of geometrical and physical optics.
- Pursuing MS or PhD in Optics.
- Experience using optical design and modeling software such as FRED, ASAP, LightTools, CODEV, Zemax, RSoft, etc.
- Good communication skills, particularly in the area of preparing and delivering presentations on a weekly to daily basis.
Preferred Qualifications
- Strong analytical background, highly creative, and able to propose innovative solutions to difficult problems.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills.
- Ability to work effectively with a small team.
- Background in geometrical optical design and at least a basic knowledge of linear systems theory as it applies to optical systems (Fourier optics).
- Some experience in modeling optical systems using commercial and custom software.
- Background that includes designing and building experimental optical systems.
Physical Requirements
Ability to work safely in a lab or cleanroom environment.
Requirements
- Good understanding of geometrical and physical optics
- Pursuing MS or PhD in Optics
- Experience using optical design and modeling software such as FRED, ASAP, LightTools, CODEV, Zemax, RSoft, etc.
- Good communication skills, particularly in the area of preparing and delivering presentations on a weekly to daily basis
- Ability to work safely in a lab or cleanroom environment
- Due to export control and ITAR requirements, must be a U.S. citizen, permanent resident, or foreign national with ITAR eligibility
Company overview
Ora is the world's leading full-service ophthalmic drug and device development firm, operating as a specialized contract research organization (CRO) focused exclusively on ophthalmology. Founded in 1974 and headquartered in Andover, Massachusetts, the company has over 45 years of experience in advancing eye care innovations globally. Ora provides comprehensive research and development services spanning preclinical studies, clinical trials, regulatory strategy, and product development for both pharmaceutical and medical device companies. With operations across the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and Asia, the company has helped clients achieve more than 85 product approvals to date. Ora's expertise covers a wide range of ophthalmic conditions including allergy, dry eye, retina diseases, glaucoma, and anti-infective therapies. The company employs over 500 ophthalmology specialists who utilize proprietary clinical models, integrated data solutions, and global regulatory strategies to accelerate product development from concept to market. Ora serves a diverse client base ranging from startups to global pharmaceutical and device companies, positioning itself as the trusted partner for ophthalmic innovation worldwide.