Phd Optimization Research Jobs in Connecticut (NOW HIRING)

Are you ready to explore the world of aerospace and defense? Do you want to learn from and collaborate with some of the greatest minds in the industry? At RTX, our internships, co‐ops and full‐time careers provide an exceptional foundation to work on complex problems, advance your skills and create a safer, more connected world. Discover opportunities to make a difference at RTX.

The following position is to join our RTX Technology Research Center as an intern during the summer of 2026. The RTX Technology Research Center (RTRC) serves as the company's innovation hub.

Our engineers, scientists and researchers anticipate the discoveries destined to change everything, and they transform that research into the solutions and products that help our businesses shape the future. RTRC is looking for a highly motivated individual for an internship position specializing in optimization for operations–support technologies to join the Optimization team within our Intelligent and Cyber Physical Systems (ICPS) Department.

The Optimization Team develops and deploys advanced computational mathematics and optimization methods for complex product and system designs, efficient aftermarket services, supply chain management and production planning and scheduling. We support all RTX business units, including both development of novel solutions for future products and solving the toughest problems with current products.

What You Will Do

Provide technical expertise in discrete optimization, constraint programming, deep learning for computer vision, reinforcement learning, uncertainty quantification, and advanced methods for operations planning, scheduling, and data analysis. Apply skills to solve industrial problems and support externally and internally sponsored programs. Write and contribute to external and internal research proposals. Build and maintain relationships with industry, academia, and government agencies to foster business opportunities. Disseminate research results through reports, conference proceedings, peer‐reviewed articles, and intellectual property development.

Qualifications

Pursuing a Master's or PhD in Operations Research, Computer Vision, Applied Mathematics, or a related field, with a graduation date no earlier than September 2026. Experience with programming languages such as Python, MATLAB, or C++, and collaborative development tools like Git. Coursework or experience in discrete optimization, uncertainty quantification (e.g., probabilistic modeling, Bayesian inference, Monte Carlo simulation), constraint programming, and deep learning for computer vision.

Strong verbal and written communication skills and ability to work effectively in dynamic, fast‐paced environments. We Prefer Experience with practical applications in fields such as operations research, computer vision, or applied mathematics. A strong record of innovation demonstrated through high‐quality journal and conference publications. Experience in disseminating research results through reports, conference proceedings, and peer‐reviewed articles, as well as developing intellectual property.

Strong analytical, problem‐solving, and interpersonal skills with a proven ability to collaborate effectively in multidisciplinary teams. A track record of adaptability, initiative, and creativity in addressing complex challenges. Candidates must be located near and willing to work in a hybrid capacity in East Hartford, CT. This role is a U.S.-based role. Employees will work regularly both onsite and offsite in a hybrid arrangement, with the ratio of onsite time determined in partnership with the leader.

Compensation & Benefits The salary range for this role is $37,000 – $82,000 USD. RTX considers several factors when extending an offer, including but not limited to the role, function, associated responsibilities, a candidate's work experience, location, education/training, and key skills. Hired applicants may be eligible for benefits, including medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short‐term disability, long‐term disability, 401(k) match, flexible spending accounts, flexible work schedules, employee assistance program, Employee Scholar Program, parental leave, paid time off, and holidays.

Specific benefits are dependent upon the specific business unit as well as whether or not the position is covered by a collective‐bargaining agreement. Hired applicants may be eligible for annual short‐term and/or long‐term incentive compensation programs depending on the level of the position and whether or not it is covered by a collective‐bargaining agreement.

Payments under these annual programs are not guaranteed and are dependent upon a variety of factors including, but not limited to, individual performance, business unit performance, and/or the company's performance. Equal Opportunity Employer RTX is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability or veteran status, or any other applicable state or federal protected class. RTX provides affirmative action in employment for qualified Individuals with a Disability and Protected Veterans in compliance with Section 503 of the Rehabilitation Act and the Vietnam Era Veterans' Readjustment Assistance Act.