New Opportunities at the LRC

The Lighting Research Center (LRC) is pleased to announce a new opportunity within its MS in Lighting program: a three-month paid internship with a leading lighting design firm or lighting manufacturer.

On September 6, 2025, the LRC hosted its New Graduate Student Welcome event and formally launched this exciting addition to the master’s curriculum. Rensselaer’s Vice Provost and Dean of Graduate Education, Dorit Nevo, Ph.D., officially welcomed new graduate students, alumni, and industry partners who have committed to serving as potential internship hosts.

LRC alumna Carrie Hawley, Senior Principal and CEO of HLB Lighting Design—the world’s largest women-owned lighting design firm—delivered a keynote address to the incoming Class of 2026. She shared her professional journey from her beginnings at the LRC to becoming a world-renowned designer and CEO, offering inspiration and guidance to the next generation of lighting professionals.

Professor Narendran, Director of the LRC Graduate Education Program, highlighted the importance of this new initiative: “We are excited about educating the future leaders of the lighting industry by introducing the internship as part of the MS in Lighting degree, giving students a valuable head start in their careers.”