This internship is part of TNO's Next Gen Mental Resilience (MENS) program, which focuses on how young military personnel develop resilience in a rapidly changing environment. The goal is to generate scientific knowledge that assists the Netherlands Ministry of Defence in optimizing the selection, training, preparation, and support of future military personnel, particularly regarding mental resilience and sustainable performance.

The Role

As an intern within the MENS team, you will contribute to research that shapes the future of the Dutch armed forces. Your primary task will be to conduct a comprehensive scoping review on coping and emotion regulation among adolescents and young adults. You will also engage in discussions about conceptualizing, measuring, and enhancing coping strategies in young adults and translating scientific insights into practical applications. The findings from this review will inform future training and support initiatives aimed at helping military personnel perform effectively under pressure.

Responsibilities

• Extract and organize data from scientific literature.
• Contribute to synthesizing and interpreting research findings.
• Identify patterns in coping and emotion regulation research.
• Discuss findings with researchers and stakeholders to translate results into practical implications for the Ministry of Defence and the broader workforce.
• Explore current methods of teaching and applying coping and resilience skills within the Dutch military through other projects in the MENS program.
• Opportunity to co-author a scientific publication.

There may be opportunities to align the internship with a Master's thesis, depending on university requirements and project needs.

Requirements

We seek a student who enjoys reading scientific literature, has a keen eye for detail, and is genuinely interested in understanding how young people cope with stress and challenges. You should have:

• A relevant background in Psychology, Educational Sciences, Pedagogical Sciences, Health Sciences, or a related field (current Master’s or completed Bachelor’s degree).
• A strong interest in mental health, coping, and emotion regulation.
• Basic research skills, including analytical and critical thinking, and writing abilities.
• A proactive attitude with the ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Proficiency in English; Dutch language skills are a plus.
• An affinity for the safety, security, or defense domain is advantageous.

What We Offer

You will join the Learning & Workforce Development department at TNO in Soesterberg, working alongside researchers from diverse fields, including psychology, educational sciences, neuroscience, and human performance research. This internship will provide hands-on experience in conducting a large-scale scientific review, collaborating with seasoned researchers, and addressing questions relevant to the future of the Dutch armed forces and the broader workforce. You will contribute to impactful research while developing your research and professional skills in a supportive environment.

In return, we offer:

• A professional and innovative internship environment where you contribute to societal and technological challenges alongside leading experts.
• Personal supervision focused on your learning objectives, development, and study assignments.
• 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 internships for MSc, BSc, and vocational education (MBO) students.
• Up to eight hours of leave per internship month for full-time interns, allowing for a balance between internship and studies.
• A contribution towards travel expenses if you are not eligible for a student travel card.
• A free membership to Jong TNO, a network for young colleagues, offering social activities, professional development, and events like the annual ski trip.

TNO as an Employer

Our people are at the heart of TNO. Their curiosity, expertise, and entrepreneurial spirit enable us to deliver high-impact research and innovations that contribute to society’s sustainable wellbeing and prosperity. We invest in an inspiring and inclusive working environment where colleagues can excel, have autonomy, and continue to grow.

Your talent and ambition will flourish at TNO. You will collaborate with experts, have access to advanced technology, and the freedom to explore, experiment, and innovate. We are committed to pushing boundaries and creating responsible, meaningful results by working with businesses and government and connecting diverse perspectives.

At TNO, we believe this is our time to help society, government, and business move forward faster. Together with driven colleagues, you will turn knowledge into concrete innovations that truly make a difference by combining the power of science and entrepreneurship.

Application Process

You can apply for this internship position until September 9, 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 or the application process, 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).

Important Information Before Applying

Before the internship begins, 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 the internship starts, the educational institution must confirm in writing that you are enrolled for the duration of the internship and that the internship is part of your study program. This confirmation occurs by signing the UNL template or forms prepared by TNO.

Interns at TNO must have a registered residential address in the Netherlands at the start of the internship. Internship activities cannot be conducted from abroad. If you are an international student, please note that you must have a BSN (Dutch citizen service number) before starting your internship. Applying for a BSN can take several weeks, so ensure to start this process well in advance.