PhD RF Engineering Internship - 2026 summer placement

The Defence & Security Business Unit is responsible for delivering designs that range from small RF sub-modules through to complete wireless systems. The engineering teams work alongside other disciplines to deliver these services to clients and are therefore fortunate to work closely with a wide range of groups across the company.  

As an RF Engineer, with support from your mentors and peers, you will participate in the development of new ground-breaking wireless products, from initial concept through to product specification and verification across defence & security sector.

This placement can be between 3- and 6-months duration with a flexible start date, and is suitable for PhD students who have completed their first year of study.

There is no deadline for this role, as we recruit on a rolling basis. Once the position is filled, we will close the advert. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible.  

The role involves contributing to RF systems design, antenna development, board-level RF circuit design and design validation of our clients’ products.  

You will have the opportunity to work on ground-breaking wireless designs, for example:  

• Communication systems
• Radar systems
• Force protection systems

   Some of your responsibilities will include:  

• System design, propagation modelling, protocol design
• Field experiments to validate concepts
• PCB level RF circuit design and laboratory-based design validation  
• Development of system models
• Antenna modelling using our sophisticated design tools
• Participate in the regulatory approval and/or field based design validation
• As required, present designs, results and conclusions   
• Work as part of a close-knit, multi-disciplinary project team focused on delivering design solutions to our clients  

We are looking for someone with a degree in a relevant subject, such as engineering, electronics, computer science, mathematics, or physics and currently studying towards a relevant PhD.

You’re someone who:   

• Has an interest in electronics hardware design and radio frequency design.   
• Communicates effectively and enjoys working as part of a team.  
• Is passionate about current technology and stays up to date with new developments.   

Developing innovative and imaginative solutions requires an inquisitive approach and a willingness to tackle complex problems. You should be keen to learn new skills and open to new approaches. Good oral and written communication skills will be key to interacting effectively within Cambridge Consultants and our clients’ organisations.  

Experience with any of the following would be advantageous, though not essential:  

• Knowledge of wireless communication systems  
• Competence in driving RF test equipment  
• Programming with Python
• Understanding a Smith chart

Some projects at Cambridge Consultants are subject to security restrictions. This role will require you to obtain a Security Check level security clearance ( https://www.gov.uk/guidance/united-kingdom-security-vetting-applicant ). You must be able to work in the UK without restrictions in accordance with UK National Law and be prepared to successfully undertake an appropriate level of UK National Security Vetting according to UK Government National Security Vetting criteria.

Please ensure your CV includes your A Level (or equivalent) subjects and grades, as well as any relevant university modules.

Covering statements are advantageous though by no means a necessity.