Internship | Shaping Light with Freeform Optics: A formidable Optical Design

Introduction below. We already have a suitable candidate with whom we are in contact, so description does not need to be published online. High‑performance optical systems underpin many technologies that benefit society, from Earth observation and astronomy to advanced sensing and imaging applications. By improving methods to design and optimize complex optical systems—including freeform surfaces and tolerance‑aware designs—this internship contributes to making optical instruments more accurate, robust, and efficient. Such improvements can lead to better scientific measurements, more reliable monitoring of the environment, and enhanced performance of optical technologies used in industry and research. In the longer term, advances in optical design methodologies help accelerate innovation while reducing development time and resource use, supporting more sustainable and effective technological solutions.

Description below. We already have a suitable candidate with whom we are in contact, so description does not need to be published online.
This internship focuses on advanced optical design methods, with a particular emphasis on the use of the FORMIDABLE framework for the design and optimization of optical systems. The intern will work on applying FORMIDABLE to three‑mirror anastigmat (TMA) systems, starting from established optical designs and gradually extending toward designs defined from scratch. Initial activities include setting baselines through conventional optical design tools and tolerance analyses, providing a solid reference for subsequent optimization work. [RE: Follow...sign Topic | Outlook], [RE: Follow...sign Topic | Outlook]
Building on this foundation, the internship will explore the optimization of as‑built optical systems, explicitly accounting for tolerances within the design process. A key component is the integration and optimization of freeform optical surfaces, where FORMIDABLE is used to perform integrated sensitivity analysis and performance optimization. Depending on progress and available time, the scope may be extended to investigate potential workflow or performance improvements, for example through the exploratory use of AI techniques in optical design. The exact scope will be iteratively refined together with the intern and supervisor.

We already have a suitable candidate with whom we are in contact.

You want an internship opportunity on the precursor of your career; an internship gives you an opportunity to take a good look at your prospective future employer. TNO goes a step further. It’s not just looking that interests us; you and your knowledge are essential to our innovation. That’s why we attach a great deal of value to your personal and professional development. You will, of course, be properly supervised during your work placement and be given the scope for you to get the best out of yourself. Furthermore, we provide:

• A highly professional, innovative internship environment, within a team of top experts.
• A suitable internship allowance (615 euro for wo-, hbo- and mbo-students, for a full-time internship).
• Possibility of eight hours of free leave per internship month (for a full-time internship).
• A free membership of Jong TNO, where you can meet other TNO professionals and join several activities, such as sports activities, (work-related) courses or the yearly ski-trip.
• Use of a laptop.
• An allowance for travel expenses in case you don’t receive an OV-card.

At TNO, we innovate for a healthier, safer and more sustainable life. And for a strong economy. Since 1932, we have been making knowledge and technology available for the common good. We find each other in wonder and ingenuity. We are driven to push boundaries. There is all the space and support for your talent and ambition. You work with people who will challenge you: who inspire you and want to learn from you. Our state-of-the-art facilities are there to realize your vision. What you do at TNO matters: impact makes the difference. Because with every innovation you contribute to tomorrow’s world. Read more about TNO as an employer.

At TNO we encourage an inclusive work environment, where you can be yourself. Whatever your story and whatever unique qualities you bring to the table. It is by combining our unique strengths and perspectives that we are able to develop innovations that make a real difference in society. Want to know more? Read what steps we are taking in the area of diversity, equity and inclusion.

After the first CV selection, the application process will be conducted by the concerning department. TNO will provide a suitable internship agreement. If you have any questions about this vacancy, you can contact the contact person mentioned below.

Important to be aware of before applying:

• Before the start of the internship, the internship agreement from TNO needs to be signed. For students at a college or university based in the Netherlands, TNO uses the UNL-template (supplemented with a number of specific agreements from TNO). For students of foreign and MBO educational institutions, the TNO internship agreement applies. TNO does not sign any other internship agreements.
• Before the start of the internship, the educational institution will need to confirm in writing that:
  • 1) you are enrolled at the educational institution during the internship, and;
  • 2) the internship takes place as part of the programme of the study.
• The confirmation of educational institution takes place by signing the UNL template or forms prepared by TNO.
• Interns at TNO must be in possession of a Dutch residential address at the start of the internship. Performance of internship activities from abroad is not possible.