• Contribute to the development of an innovative fiber optic sensing system.
• Investigate new concepts for sensor interrogation.
• Translate research ideas into practical solutions.
• Engage in modelling, experimental measurements, data analysis, software development, and performance evaluation, based on your interests and background.

Throughout the project, you will gain practical experience with optical sensors in an industrial research laboratory environment. You will have the chance to explore new technologies, develop engineering skills, and contribute your ideas. The internship will cover multiple phases: exploring the innovative concept, implementing and testing it, and reporting on the results.

We are looking for a motivated HBO or WO student with a background in:

• Applied Physics (preferably with optics background)
• Electrical Engineering

Interest in the following areas is essential:

• Fiber optic sensing
• Photonics
• Signal processing

Experience with one or more of the following is beneficial but not required:

• Modelling tools (e.g., Python, Matlab)
• Laboratory experiments
• Optical measurement techniques

You should be analytical, curious, and enjoy transforming innovative ideas into practical solutions. You must be comfortable working independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

The internship is expected to last approximately 3 to 6 months and can be adjusted to meet your educational program's requirements.

An internship at TNO means working in a substance-driven environment. You will be part of a knowledge organization where research and practice converge, collaborating with experts on solutions to pressing societal and technological challenges. This internship will help you discover your strengths and what you want to learn next, providing insight into practical operations and opportunities for growth beyond the internship.

In addition, we offer:

• A professional and innovative internship environment where you contribute to societal and technological challenges alongside leading experts.
• Personal and dedicated supervision focused on your learning objectives and development.
• Opportunities to gain relevant work experience, develop both subject-specific and professional skills, and build a valuable network.
• Use of a laptop and necessary facilities to perform your work effectively.
• A monthly internship allowance of €615 for full-time interns (for MSc, BSc, and vocational education students).
• Up to eight hours of leave per internship month for full-time interns to balance your internship with studies and personal life.
• A contribution towards travel expenses if you are not entitled to a student travel card.
• Free membership to Jong TNO, a network for young colleagues, offering opportunities for social events, sports activities, and professional development.

You can apply for this internship position until November 3, 2026. After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation by email. TNO will arrange an appropriate internship agreement. If you have any questions about the internship content or application procedure, please contact the person listed below.

If you start an internship with us, we will also ask you to provide a Certificate of Conduct (VOG).

Before starting the internship, an internship agreement must be signed. For students enrolled at a Dutch university or university of applied sciences, TNO uses the UNL template, supplemented with TNO-specific agreements. For students from foreign educational institutions and MBO programs, the TNO internship agreement applies. TNO does not sign any other internship agreements.

Before starting the internship, your educational institution will need to confirm in writing that:

• You are enrolled for the duration of the internship.
• The internship forms part of your study program.

Interns at TNO must have a registered residential address in the Netherlands at the start of the internship. Carrying out internship activities from abroad is not possible.

Are you an international student? Please note that you must have a BSN (Dutch citizen service number) before the start of your internship. Applying for a BSN can take several weeks, so make sure to start this process well in advance.