The authors report the growth of MgSe/CdSe quantum well structures on InP substrate with an InAlAs buffer by molecular beam epitaxy. The sample maintained zincblende crystal structure during the growth with good surface and interface quality as indicated by in-situ reflection high-energy electron diffraction. Structural and optical properties of the sample were characterized by high-resolution x-ray diffraction and photoluminescence measurements. Clear near infrared intersubband transition at 1.79 mu m is observed. Calculations suggest that with strain-compensated MgSe/ZnSe/CdSe coupled quantum wells intersubband absorption at the optical communication wavelength 1.55 mu m can be achieved. (C) 2014 American Vacuum Society.