Samuel Mergendahl

When the Lab showed me an opportunity to apply my previous research experience in cybersecurity to space systems, I was hooked.

Tell us broadly about your work at Lincoln Laboratory.

I’ve primarily been involved in cyber-resiliency efforts for space systems at the Lab. In this work, we architect software to help satellites operate through and withstand cyberattack. This can involve working with software that has been mathematically proven to be correct, meets strict timing constraints, and/or is written in new, safer programming languages.

What inspired you to pursue your line of work?

I’ve always been extremely fascinated with outer space. As a kid in rural Wisconsin, the night sky was phenomenal. When the Lab showed me an opportunity to apply my previous research experience in cybersecurity to space systems, I was hooked.

What aspects of your work do you take the most pride in?

I believe the Lab is really well positioned to take research the last mile and make a lasting impact. National security is a huge aspect of that, but I’ve also found it to be true on a local scale. I particularly enjoy mentoring students at MIT while they complete their theses.

What is a goal you would like to accomplish in your lifetime?

I really hope I cultivate warm and inviting relationships with family, friends, and coworkers. That being said, having a role in the design or creation of some aspect of a satellite destined for cislunar space is a close second.