Innovate at the heart of military security

Work with a team of experts on technological innovations that strengthen the armed forces and make the Netherlands safer and more resilient. This is the time to contribute to the security and strategic autonomy of the Netherlands and its allies. Become a time setter at TNO and make your mark on our time.

Your impact on our mission

The world is changing faster than ever. In an unpredictable geopolitical landscape, marked by rapid technological advances and emerging threats, you will help develop smart, effective solutions for the armed forces within our Electromagnetics & Military Operations (E&MO) division. Together with around 250 experts, you will work on challenges with major societal impact, developing systems in the field of electromagnetic technology, from radar and signals to tactical operations and digital threats.

From Umbra to your place within E&MO

From day one in Umbra, you will work on actual Defence challenges. Depending on your background, you will contribute directly to projects with short innovation cycles and results within months. Through the onboarding programme, you will get to know the different disciplines, knowledge areas and research groups within E&MO. Within three to six months, you will move into a permanent position within the division. How you develop and where you land depends on your expertise, ambitions and experience.

Work on the security of tomorrow

E&MO brings together a broad and dynamic range of expertise areas. Each domain contributes directly to innovation, operational effectiveness and Defence’s technological edge. Discover where your expertise can make a difference.

We simulate, test and validate the full sensor‑to‑shooter chain against a realistic threat landscape. We also develop system concepts and (sub)technologies for radars, effectors and command and control.

With our tools and concepts for spectrum situational awareness, electronic attack and defence, and smart spectrum coordination, we enhance control over the electromagnetic domain.

We simulate sensor–weapon combinations, detectability at sea and advise on system choices in replacement programmes.

Through logistical optimisation, deployment analyses and operations‑research methods, we help strengthen land and coastal operations. Dynamic scenarios demand smart modelling and data‑driven decision‑making.

We support intelligent logistics, datalink employment, tactical decision‑making and operational concepts for air operations.

Exploring the deployment of small satellites goes hand in hand with developing technologies for sensing, communication and electronic support.

Time setter stories

Time setter story: Mia Jukić
‘I find it inspiring how solving complex challenges requires a rich mix of expertise. I really discovered that at TNO: a place where collaboration is central to turn ideas into real solutions.'
Mia Jukić - Researcher Electromagnetics & Military Operations
Time setter story: Stefania Monni on antennas and radar technology
‘There's always a new puzzle. We're constantly searching for solutions that push closer to the limits of physics: that requires creativity.'
Stefania Monni - Senior scientist antenna and microwaves
Time setter story: Project manager Christian Trampuz
‘Radar is really my passion. You can’t see its waves. You can’t touch them. Yet they can help you observe and monitor the environment.’
Christian Trampuz - Project manager Defence, Safety & Security

Curious to read other experiences from TNO employees?

More time setter stories
Rogier Giepman (2)
'In Umbra, personal growth and rapid innovation come together. We work towards a clear mission and develop the knowledge and systems that keep our country safe. That gives me the drive to give my all every single day.'

Rogier Giepman

Research Manager Umbra at TNO

Frequently Asked Questions

It typically lasts between three and six months, depending on your development needs and the research questions within the various departments.

Umbra is based at our Rijswijk location. In addition to the main TNO building, Umbra has its own dedicated wing. After completing the Umbra phase, you will move into one of the research groups within the E&MO division in The Hague.

Umbra is Latin for “shadow”. It refers to Umbra’s role as a “shadow group”, where new colleagues, from junior to senior, land within the E&MO division; in a way, under the radar.

You can start in Umbra with a Certificate of Good Conduct (VOG). Once your AIVD/MIVD security clearance has been completed, you may work on highly classified projects. This screening process will start in parallel with your employment and may take several weeks to several months.

Umbra is open to both graduates and experienced senior professionals ready for their next step. Your role and projects will depend on your knowledge, skills and experience.

E&MO consists of six research groups: Radar Technology, Compact Radar Systems, Electromagnetic Signatures & Propagation, Electronic Warfare, Surface & Aerospace Warfare, and Modelling of Tactical Operations.

You are curious, take responsibility and are not afraid to experiment. You enjoy tackling complex challenges and want to help develop technologies that strengthen the security of the Netherlands.